Blueberry Lemon Cream Bars
Blueberry Lemon Cream Bars are a luscious combination of tart and sweet layered in a buttery crust. These bars feature a crunchy graham cracker base, a juicy blueberry layer, and a creamy lemon cheesecake topping that’s perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon treats, or special occasions. The balance of sweet blueberries and bright lemon cream creates a refreshing dessert that is visually stunning and indulgently smooth. You can make a baked version for a richer texture or a no-bake version for a quicker, cooler option. With versatility and vibrant flavor, these bars are sure to impress both family and friends.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes (baked version) or none (no-bake version)
Chill Time: 2 hours minimum (for no-bake or to set baked bars)
Total Time: About 3 hours
Servings: 12 to 16 bars
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
Graham cracker crumbs: 1½ to 3 cups
Granulated sugar: ¼ to ½ cup
Melted butter: ½ to ¾ cup
Blueberry Layer Ingredients
Blueberries: 2 to 3 cups fresh blueberries or 1 (21 oz) can blueberry pie filling
Granulated sugar: ¼ to ¾ cup (if using fresh blueberries)
Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
Cornstarch: 1 to 2 tablespoons (to thicken if using fresh blueberries)
Lemon Cream Layer Ingredients
No-Bake Version:
Cream cheese: 2–3 packages (8 oz each), softened
Sugar: 1 to 1½ cups granulated or powdered sugar
Lemon juice: ⅓ cup
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Milk: 1 cup 2% milk
Instant lemon pudding: 1 box (3.4 oz)
Baked Version:
Cream cheese: 2–3 packages (8 oz each), softened
Sugar: 1 to 1½ cups
Lemon juice: ⅓ cup
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Eggs: 3 large
Sour cream: ½ cup
Instructions
Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Cool slightly.
Cook the Blueberries (if using fresh): In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, bring to a boil, then simmer for 7 minutes until thickened. Let cool slightly.
Spread Blueberry Layer: Pour blueberry mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Smooth with a spatula and set aside.
Prepare Lemon Cream Layer (No-Bake Version): In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat in milk gradually, then fold in instant lemon pudding until smooth.
Prepare Lemon Cream Layer (Baked Version): Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until creamy. Add lemon juice and vanilla, then blend in eggs one at a time. Fold in sour cream until fully incorporated.
Assemble Bars: Pour lemon cream layer over blueberry layer, spreading evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake (for Baked Version): Place in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the lemon layer is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Cool at room temperature, then chill for at least 2 hours.
Chill (for No-Bake Version): Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set before cutting.
Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife, wiping it between cuts, to slice into 12–16 bars.
Optional Garnish: Sprinkle extra blueberries, zest, or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving.
Tips
Use softened cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free lemon layer.
Press the crust firmly to avoid crumbling when slicing.
Cool the crust slightly before adding blueberries to prevent them from sinking.
Adjust sugar in the blueberry layer depending on tartness of berries.
For a no-bake version, use chilled milk and pudding for a firmer set.
Avoid overbaking baked bars; they firm up as they cool.
Chill bars thoroughly for clean slices.
Use parchment paper in the pan for easier removal.
Add a little lemon zest to the blueberry layer for extra brightness.
Clean your knife between cuts to keep layers distinct and neat.
Variations
Mixed Berry Bars: Replace blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or a mix.
Almond Crust: Use almond flour with butter instead of graham crackers.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookie crumbs for the crust.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant milk, and vegan butter.
Lemon Curd Drizzle: Top with homemade lemon curd for extra tang.
Chocolate Blueberry Bars: Add a thin layer of melted chocolate between crust and blueberry layer.
Nutty Crust: Mix crushed almonds, pecans, or walnuts into the crust for crunch.
Light Version: Reduce sugar or use a sugar substitute in the cream and blueberry layers.
Mini Bars: Use a muffin tin or small square pan for individual servings.
Coconut Twist: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the lemon cream layer before chilling.
Q&A
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
Can I freeze the bars?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Do I have to use fresh blueberries?
No, canned blueberry pie filling works and simplifies the recipe.
Can I make a sugar-free version?
Yes, use sugar substitutes in both the crust and cream layers.
How do I prevent the cream layer from cracking?
Don’t overbake; bars should be slightly jiggly when done.
Can I use a different crust?
Yes, shortbread, digestive biscuits, or cookie crumbs work.
Are these bars suitable for kids?
Absolutely, the sweet-tart flavor and creamy texture are kid-friendly.
How thick should each layer be?
Roughly ½–1 inch for each layer; adjust based on pan size.
Can I use a different citrus flavor?
Lime or orange juice works well in the cream layer.
Can I make these mini bites instead of bars?
Yes, use a mini muffin pan or small square pan for single-serve portions.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 300–400
Protein: 6–8 g
Fat: 15–20 g
Carbohydrates: 40–50 g
Fiber: 2–4 g
Sugar: 25–30 g
Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin C from lemon, antioxidants from blueberries, calcium from cream cheese
Conclusion
Blueberry Lemon Cream Bars are a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy in every bite. The combination of a crunchy graham cracker crust, a juicy blueberry layer, and a smooth lemon cream topping creates a visually striking dessert that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you choose the baked version for a richer, cheesecake-like texture or a no-bake option for a faster treat, these bars are versatile and crowd-pleasing. With room for customization—different berries, crusts, or flavor twists—they can easily suit dietary preferences and tastes. They are ideal for family gatherings, summer parties, or just a sweet indulgence at home.