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If you're looking for a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, look no further than Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars. These delightful treats combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the refreshing zing of lemon and the burst of juicy blueberries, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply treating yourself to something delicious, these cheesecake bars are sure to impress.

Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in the sweet and tangy delight of Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars! This easy dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy cheesecake filling infused with fresh lemon juice and vibrant blueberries. To elevate the treat, a glossy layer of blueberry preserves finishes it off, creating an impressive dessert perfect for any occasion. Follow the simple steps to create this visually stunning and delicious dessert that everyone will love!

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling:

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

⅔ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

Zest of 1 lemon

¼ cup fresh lemon juice

1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)

For the Topping:

½ cup blueberry preserves

Fresh blueberries for garnish (optional)

Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.

      Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

        Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the sugar and mix until well combined.

          Add Eggs and Flavor: Add the vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the blueberries.

            Pour and Spread the Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

              Bake the Cheesecake Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

                Cool and Chill: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until fully chilled.

                  Prepare the Topping: Before serving, warm the blueberry preserves in a small saucepan over medium heat until slightly runny. Spread the melted preserves evenly over the chilled cheesecake bars.

                    Serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve cold, garnished with fresh blueberries and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 4 hours (including chilling) | 16 bars