Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

A delicious treat that brings together the tartness of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries, Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or just looking for a sweet snack, these bars offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy lemon cheesecake filling combined with a buttery shortbread crust makes these pie bars stand out in any dessert spread.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Crust Ingredients
• Filling Ingredients
• Topping Ingredients
• How to Make Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
• Step 3: Make the Crust
• Step 4: Bake the Crust
• Step 5: Prepare the Filling
• Step 6: Assemble Bars
• Step 7: Bake Again
• Step 8: Cool
• How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars
• With Whipped Cream
• With Ice Cream
• As Breakfast Treats
• Topped with Fresh Berries
• Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
• 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
• What makes Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars special?
• Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?
• How do I know when my Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are done?
• Can I customize this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of tangy lemon and juicy blueberries creates a refreshing taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, potluck, or family gathering, these dessert bars are always a hit.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance, as they store well in the fridge, making them ideal for entertaining.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them chilled, at room temperature, or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and easy removal of the bars once cooled.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth filling quickly by thoroughly blending the cream cheese and sugar.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of bowls and ensuring no ingredient is left behind.

Ingredients

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

Crust Ingredients

• 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

Filling Ingredients

• 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

Topping Ingredients

• 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 of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350ºF (177ºC).

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8″ x 8″ (or 9 x 9) baking pan with foil. Leave an overhang on the sides to make removing the bars easier after baking. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Crust

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

Step 4: Bake the Crust

Bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

1. In another mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add granulated sugar and mix until well blended.
3. Incorporate eggs one at a time, followed by yogurt/sour cream, fresh lemon juice, salt, flour, and lemon zest until fully combined.

Step 6: Assemble Bars

Pour the filling over the cooled crust in an even layer. Sprinkle blueberries on top.

Step 7: Bake Again

Return to oven and bake for an additional 45–50 minutes until set in the center.

Step 8: Cool

Allow to cool completely in pan before lifting out using foil edges. Cut into squares once chilled.

Enjoy your homemade Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars as a delightful dessert!

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are a delightful treat that can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, these bars can be paired with several accompaniments to enhance their flavor.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the tartness of the lemon.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully, providing a sweet contrast to the tart blueberry filling.

As Breakfast Treats

• These bars can double as breakfast; serve them with a cup of coffee for a delicious morning kick.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Garnish with extra blueberries or raspberries for added color and freshness.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• A simple lemon glaze can elevate these bars, adding an extra zing of citrus flavor.

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How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

To achieve the best Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars, follow these tips for perfect results every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh blueberries and lemons will provide the best flavor and texture in your pie bars.
• Soften cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your filling light and creamy.
• Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting; this helps them set properly.
• Chill before serving: Chilling the bars in the fridge for a few hours enhances their flavor and makes them easier to slice.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your filling before baking and adjust sugar if needed, especially if using tart blueberries.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bars.

2. Lemon Sorbet
   This refreshing dessert echoes lemon’s flavor while serving as a cool palate cleanser.

3. Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
   A light salad brings balance, with vibrant flavors complementing the pie bars.

4. Cheese Platter
   Select mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese; they pair nicely with sweet desserts.

5. Chocolate-Covered Almonds
   The nutty crunch and chocolate provide an interesting contrast to the soft texture of the pie bars.

6. Tea or Coffee
   Serving warm beverages enhances the overall experience, especially after dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars can be delightful, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best results.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy filling.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to prevent tough bars. Overmixing can incorporate too much air and change the texture.
• Skipping the zest: Don’t forget the lemon zest! It adds essential flavor and brightness to your pie bars.
• Not lining the pan properly: Always line your baking pan with foil or parchment paper. This helps with easy removal and cleanup.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly before baking. An unheated oven can lead to uneven results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the original pan, covered tightly with foil, if preferred.

Freezing Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

• Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF (177ºC) and heat bars for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for about 30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a non-stick skillet over low heat; cover and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars special?

Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are loved for their creamy lemon filling paired with juicy blueberries. The combination creates a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries without thawing them. They will add moisture and flavor to the bars as they bake.

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

The bars are done when the edges have set, and the center has a slight jiggle but isn’t liquid. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different fruits or adjust the sweetness by using less sugar if desired. Experiment with flavors that you love!

Final Thoughts

These Blueberry Lemon Pie Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough to fit various occasions. With their creamy filling and refreshing citrus notes, they make a perfect dessert for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fruits or toppings!