If you're a fan of cheesecake, lemon, and blueberries, you're in for a treat! These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars combine the tangy taste of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries, all wrapped up in a creamy cheesecake filling on top of a buttery crust. They are perfect for any occasion—from summer picnics to holiday parties. With a balance of flavors and textures, this dessert is bound to become a favorite. So, whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the world of cheesecakes, read on to discover how you can make these delightful bars at home. Let's dive into the recipe!

What Are Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a variation of classic cheesecake that offers a burst of freshness from the lemon and a sweet contrast from the blueberries. Unlike traditional cheesecake, which is usually baked in a round springform pan, cheesecake bars are baked in a square or rectangular pan and cut into smaller pieces, making them easier to serve and share. The combination of flavors makes these bars an irresistible dessert that hits all the right notes—rich, tangy, sweet, and buttery.
Ingredients List for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
Before we start baking, it's crucial to gather all the necessary ingredients. Below is a comprehensive list of everything you'll need to make these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 medium lemons)
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the Blueberry Swirl:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh blueberries
- Powdered sugar
- Lemon slices or lemon zest
Ingredient List for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars (Continued)
For a successful recipe, the freshness and quality of your ingredients matter! Here's why each component plays a crucial role:
- Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of your bars. Provides a crunchy, buttery base to contrast the creamy cheesecake filling.
- Cream cheese: The star of the show! Make sure it’s softened to avoid lumps.
- Lemon juice and zest: These two ingredients give the cheesecake its fresh, tangy flavor. Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best results.
- Blueberries: Add a burst of sweetness and color. You can use either fresh or frozen blueberries, but fresh ones will give you the best flavor and texture.
- Sour cream: Adds richness and a slight tang to the cheesecake, balancing out the sweetness.
Now that you know the ingredients and their importance, let's move on to potential substitutions in case you need alternatives.
Substitutions and Variations
Baking is often about flexibility, so if you’re missing an ingredient or want to try something different, here are some substitutions and variations you can consider:
- Crust Substitutes: If you don’t have graham crackers on hand, you can use digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even Oreos for a fun twist. Gluten-free cookie crumbs can also be used for a gluten-free version.
- Cream Cheese Alternatives: For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese or Neufchâtel cheese. Just note that the texture may be slightly less creamy.
- Blueberry Variations: If blueberries aren’t in season, you can substitute them with raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a different berry flavor. You could also use a pre-made blueberry jam to save time.
- Vegan Option: Replace the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese substitute, use coconut oil instead of butter, and swap eggs for flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to bake? Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until all the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form an even layer.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
Step 3: Make the Blueberry Swirl
- In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, lemon juice, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries break down and the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Let the blueberry mixture cool slightly, then blend it into a smooth sauce using a blender or an immersion blender.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and sour cream until fully combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Drop spoonfuls of the blueberry sauce onto the filling and use a toothpick or knife to swirl the blueberry sauce into the cheesecake mixture, creating a marbled effect.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake the cheesecake bars for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to fully set.
How to Cook Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide
To summarize the cooking process:
- Preheat and prepare your baking pan.
- Create a buttery graham cracker crust, bake it briefly to set.
- Prepare a vibrant blueberry sauce for the swirl.
- Whip up a creamy, tangy cheesecake filling with lemon zest and juice.
- Assemble the bars by layering the cheesecake filling over the crust, and swirl in the blueberry sauce.
- Bake, cool, and chill for perfect cheesecake bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making cheesecake can seem tricky, but these tips will help you avoid common pitfalls:
- Not softening the cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Over-mixing the filling: Over-mixing can incorporate too much air, which may cause the cheesecake to crack.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cheesecake bars need time to firm up in the fridge. Don’t rush this step, or you’ll end up with a runny dessert.
- Not using fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright flavor of fresh lemons. Use fresh lemons for the best result.
- Cutting before fully set: Allow the bars to fully chill before cutting, or they may be too soft and messy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can elevate any dessert. Here are a few tips on how to serve your Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars:
- Cut neatly: Use a sharp knife to slice your bars, wiping it clean between each cut for a professional-looking finish.
- Garnish with fresh fruit: Add a few fresh blueberries or a thin slice of lemon on top of each bar for added appeal.
- Dust with powdered sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and sweetness.
- Serve chilled: These bars are best served cold, straight from the fridge.
How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
Serve these bars chilled with a fork, alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. They are ideal for afternoon tea parties, brunches, or as a light dessert after a summer meal. For special occasions, you can plate them with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of blueberry sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
- Layering effect: Showcase the layers by using a transparent glass dish to serve the bars.
- Elegant plate: Use decorative plates and garnish with lemon zest curls or edible flowers for a high-end look.
- Mini bar trays: If hosting a party, serve individual cheesecake bars on mini dessert trays.
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe Tips
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients (especially cream cheese and eggs) are at room temperature for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Don’t rush the chilling process: The bars need time to firm up in the fridge. Chill them for at least 3 hours, but overnight is best.
- Try a water bath: If you’re worried about cracks, you can place your baking pan in a larger pan filled with hot water to create a steam environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen blueberries for the swirl?
Yes! Frozen blueberries work just as well. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before making the blueberry sauce.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs, and you're good to go.
How long will these bars keep?
These cheesecake bars will last for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Can I freeze Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a perfect balance of rich, creamy cheesecake with a burst of fresh, fruity flavors. Whether you're hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this dessert is sure to impress. With easy-to-follow steps, even a beginner baker can master these cheesecake bars. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow this recipe, and enjoy a delicious, tangy-sweet treat today!
PrintLemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
These lemon blueberry cheesecake bars combine the tangy flavors of lemon and blueberries with a creamy cheesecake filling. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a delicious blueberry swirl, these bars are a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (including cooling and chilling time)
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Butter (melted)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- Vanilla extract
- Cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish by lining it with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter to form the crust. Press into the prepared pan and bake for a few minutes.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract.
- In a small bowl, toss blueberries with cornstarch, then fold them into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the baked crust and smooth the top.
- Bake until the cheesecake is set. Let cool before chilling in the refrigerator for several hours.
- Cut into bars and serve.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, use room-temperature cream cheese.
- You can substitute fresh blueberries with frozen ones if needed.
- Store the bars in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
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