Scandal Boggs ┃ Fashion, Beauty & Home

End your Easter celebration on a sweet and refreshing note with these delightful Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of zesty lemon, juicy blueberries, and luscious cheesecake, these bars are a treat for the senses. The buttery crust provides the perfect base for the creamy cheesecake layer, while the blueberry topping adds a burst of fruity goodness. Elevate your Easter dessert table with these citrus-infused cheesecake bars that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

For our Easter 2024 Master List of Recipes, click here

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

For the Blueberry Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create an even crust.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until it’s set. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Cheesecake Filling:

4. Prepare the Cheesecake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Beat until well combined and creamy.
5. Pour over the Crust: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Blueberry Topping:

6. Prepare the Blueberry Sauce: In a saucepan, combine fresh blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and fresh lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the blueberries release their juices. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
7. Add Blueberry Topping: Spoon the blueberry sauce over the cheesecake batter, spreading it evenly.

Bake and Chill:

8. Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
9. Chill in the Refrigerator: Allow the Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars to cool in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Serve and Enjoy:

10. Slice and Serve: Once fully chilled and set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and slice into bars.
11. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with additional fresh blueberries or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
12. Serve Chilled: Serve the Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars chilled and enjoy the citrusy, berry-infused goodness.

Variations and Tips:

• Graham Cracker Variation: Experiment with different crust options, such as using a vanilla or lemon cookie crust.
• Berry Medley Topping: Mix blueberries with other berries like raspberries or blackberries for a colorful and diverse topping.
• Lemon Curd Swirl: Swirl lemon curd into the cheesecake batter for an extra burst of lemon flavor.
• Nutty Crust: Add finely chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) to the crust for a nutty crunch.
• Individual Servings: Create mini cheesecake bars in a muffin tin for individual portions.

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful conclusion to your Easter celebration, bringing together the bright flavors of lemon, the sweetness of blueberries, and the creamy richness of cheesecake. These bars offer a perfect balance of tart and sweet, making them a crowd-pleaser for any dessert table. Share the joy of these citrus-infused delights with family and friends, and let the refreshing flavors of spring be the highlight of your Easter festivities.