Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

A delicious treat for any occasion, Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars combine the tartness of blueberries with a creamy lemon cheesecake filling. Perfect for picnics, parties, or as a sweet finish to dinner, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress. The buttery shortbread crust complements the rich filling, creating a delightful texture in every bite.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crust
• For the Filling
• For the Topping
• How to Make Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
• Step 3: Make the Shortbread Crust
• Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Cheesecake Filling
• Step 5: Assemble Your Bars
• Step 6: Bake
• How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
• Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream
• Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream
• Garnish with Mint Leaves
• Accompany with Lemon Zest
• Present on Colorful Platters
• How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
• Reheating Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen blueberries in Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars?
• How do I know when my Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are done?
• Can I make these bars gluten-free?
• What can I serve with Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have these bars ready in no time.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy winter nights. These bars can be enjoyed year-round!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and tangy flavor profile of these delicious treats.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance and stored, making them ideal for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything prepared will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (8″ x 8″ or 9″ x 9″)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A good quality pan ensures even baking and easy removal of your pie bars.
• Electric mixer: This tool makes it easy to achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling without any lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key in baking. They help maintain the right balance of flavors.

Ingredients

A sweet and creamy lemon cheesecake filling bursting with blueberries sits atop a lemon shortbread crust with lemon shortbread crumbles on top.

For the Crust

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter (melted)
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• the zest of one lemon
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour

For the Filling

• 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• zest of one lemon
• 2 large eggs
• 5 ounces (150g) yogurt or sour cream
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour

For the Topping

• 3 cups (300g) blueberries (fresh or frozen; if using frozen, do not thaw)

How to Make Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Position a rack in the center position of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350ºF (177ºC).

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line an 8″ x 8″ or 9″ x 9″ baking pan with foil, allowing an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Shortbread Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, salt, lemon zest, and all-purpose flour.
2. Mix until crumbly but combined.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Cheesecake Filling

1. In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add in granulated sugar while mixing until well combined.
3. Stir in lemon zest, eggs one at a time, yogurt or sour cream, fresh lemon juice, salt, and flour until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bars

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in your baking pan.
2. Evenly distribute blueberries on top of the filling.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Enjoy your freshly baked Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars, perfect for sharing or savoring alone!

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, these bars can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added creaminess and a touch of elegance.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream can provide a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon filling, making every bite heavenly.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• A sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing flavor that complements the blueberries beautifully.

Accompany with Lemon Zest

• Grate some lemon zest over the top before serving for an extra burst of citrus flavor that ties everything together.

Present on Colorful Platters

• Arrange the bars on vibrant platters or cake stands to make them visually appealing, perfect for parties or gatherings.

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How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

To achieve the best Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your dessert game.

• Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries offer superior flavor compared to frozen ones. However, if using frozen, do not thaw them before adding to avoid excess moisture.

• Chill Before Serving: Letting the bars cool completely in the fridge enhances their texture and makes slicing easier.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your filling before baking. You may want to adjust the sugar based on your preference and the tartness of your lemons.

• Zest Properly: Use only the bright yellow part of the lemon peel for zest. The white pith underneath can add bitterness.

• Bake Evenly: Ensure your oven is properly preheated and use an oven thermometer if necessary to maintain an accurate temperature throughout baking.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

Pairing side dishes with Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bars.

2. Lemon Sorbet: This chilled treat provides a zesty complement to the pie bars while keeping things light and refreshing.

3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly creamy varieties like Brie or goat cheese, balances out the sweetness of the dessert nicely.

4. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances dessert time, providing warmth and a comforting element alongside your pie bars.

5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries in individual cups for a wholesome side that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of blueberry lemon.

6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These decadent treats add an elegant touch and are always a crowd-pleaser when served alongside fruity desserts like pie bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that might affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter – This can lead to a dense texture. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Skipping the zest – Lemon zest adds essential flavor. Always include it in both the crust and filling for the best taste.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold cream cheese or butter can cause lumps. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Not measuring accurately – Baking is precise. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accurate measurements.
• Ignoring baking time – Ovens vary in temperature. Start checking your bars a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

• Oven – Preheat to 350ºF (177ºC) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars:

Can I use frozen blueberries in Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries without thawing them first. They will add moisture and flavor!

How do I know when my Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are done?

The edges should be set, and the center may still have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What can I serve with Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars?

These bars pair well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added creaminess.

Final Thoughts

These Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars offer a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize your recipe by adding other fruits or adjusting the sweetness according to your taste. Enjoy these bars as a comforting dessert that everyone will love!