Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that never fails to impress, these Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are just what you need! This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights when you want something sweet to brighten your day, to family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds. The combination of creamy lemon cheesecake filling and fresh blueberries on a buttery shortbread crust is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become one of your favorites too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious bars in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and tangy flavors of blueberry and lemon.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These bars can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of rich cream cheese and zesty lemon creates a taste sensation that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars is a breeze! You’ll find that they’re all simple and wholesome, making it easy to create this tasty treat right at home.

For the Crust

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter (melted)
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 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
• 3 cups (300g) blueberries (fresh or frozen; if using frozen, do not thaw)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas!

• Add other berries: Try incorporating raspberries or blackberries alongside the blueberries for a mixed berry twist.
• Switch up the citrus: If lemon isn’t your favorite, orange zest and juice can give a lovely flavor change.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
• Top with nuts: Add some chopped almonds or pecans on top before baking for an extra crunch.

How to Make Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Position a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 350°F (177°C). Lining your baking pan with foil ensures easy removal later—just trust me on this! Leave an overhang on the sides so you can lift those beautiful bars out when they’re ready.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, lemon zest, and flour. Mix until everything is well combined. This buttery mixture will form the base of our bars. Once it’s ready, press it into the bottom of your lined baking pan. It should be even and slightly compacted. Then bake for about 15 minutes until it’s lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the crust cools slightly, beat together softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Then add in lemon zest, eggs, yogurt or sour cream, fresh lemon juice, salt, and flour. Mixing until well combined gives you that creamy filling we all love.

Step 4: Add the Blueberries

Gently fold in those gorgeous blueberries into your filling mixture. If you’re using frozen blueberries—no need to thaw! Just fold them in carefully so they stay whole.

Step 5: Combine Layers

Pour this luscious filling over your pre-baked crust. Spread it evenly so every bite will be just as delicious as the last.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return your pan to the oven and bake for another 45-60 minutes until set. The edges should look firm while the center might still have a slight jiggle—that’s okay! It will firm up as it cools.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow your pie bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using that handy foil overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy! These Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are sure to become a cherished recipe in your household just like they are in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

Making these Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars is a delightful experience, and a few tips can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the filling, resulting in a creamy texture without lumps.
• Fresh blueberries are best: While frozen blueberries work well, fresh ones offer superior flavor and texture. When in season, using fresh berries can truly elevate the taste of your bars.
• Don’t skip the zest: Adding lemon zest enhances the lemony flavor throughout the bars, giving them a bright and refreshing taste that complements the sweetness of the blueberries.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing your bars to cool completely before slicing helps maintain their structure. This way, you’ll achieve neat, beautiful slices that showcase all those delicious layers.
• Chill before serving: For an extra refreshing treat, chill the bars in the refrigerator for a couple of hours after baking. This will make them even more enjoyable, especially on warm days!

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

These Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars make for a stunning dessert that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with family. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the flavors.
• Fresh mint leaves: Garnishing with a few sprigs of fresh mint not only looks great but also adds a refreshing aroma that complements the lemon and blueberry perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free alternative is light and airy, providing a creamy contrast to the tartness of the pie bars. Just whip chilled coconut cream until fluffy and serve alongside.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a classic pairing with these bars. The creamy sweetness balances out the tangy lemon flavor beautifully.
• Lemon sorbet: For a lighter option, serving lemon sorbet is perfect. Its icy texture and citrus flavor enhance the lemon notes in your pie bars while providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
• Fruit salad: A colorful fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or kiwi can provide additional textures and flavors that complement your dessert wonderfully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars will be ready to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance and store them, making them a delightful treat whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easier serving later.
• Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers!

Reheating

• For a warm treat, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• If you prefer a crispier crust, pop them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

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

Can I use frozen blueberries in Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars?

Absolutely! Use frozen blueberries directly from the freezer without thawing them. This will help maintain their shape during baking.

How long do Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars last?

These delicious bars can last up to 2 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option!

Can I substitute yogurt with something else in Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars?

Yes! If you don’t have yogurt or sour cream on hand, you can replace it with an equal amount of silken tofu blended until smooth.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars as I am to share them with you! The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a dessert that feels both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re enjoying them after dinner or sharing with friends, these bars are sure to impress. Don’t forget to try your hand at this recipe—you won’t regret it!