Introduction to Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
If you’re looking for a delectable dessert that effortlessly combines sweetness with a creamy twist, blueberry cream cheese crumb bars might just be your new favorite treat. The harmonious blend of juicy blueberries and rich cream cheese nestled between a buttery crumb crust makes these bars a standout choice for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a delightful ending to a dinner party.
But what truly makes blueberry cream cheese crumb bars the perfect treat? It’s all about the flavor balance and texture. The tartness of the blueberries complements the sweet, velvety cream cheese filling, while the crumb topping adds that essential crunch that keeps you coming back for more. This recipe allows you to savor seasonal blueberries at their best, packed with antioxidants and a burst of refreshing flavor.
Plus, these bars are visually stunning, making them a great addition to any gathering. Imagine serving these beautiful squares at your next brunch or potluck—guests will be dazzled by their delightful appearance and irresistible taste. For more inspiration, check out our other berry dessert recipes like Blueberry Pie and Cheesecake Bars. Your friends will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
Creating delicious blueberry cream cheese crumb bars is all about using the right ingredients. Let's break down what you need to make this delightful treat!
Crust & Crumble
- 1 cup white sugar: This sweetener helps balance the tanginess of the cream cheese and blueberries.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your bars, giving them structure and texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a lightness to the crumb mixture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Zest of 1 lemon: A burst of citrus that brightens up each bite!
- 1 cup cold butter (2 sticks, cubed): Cold butter is essential for that perfect crumble texture.
- 1 egg: Binds everything together beautifully.
Blueberry Filling
- 4 cups fresh blueberries: The star of the show! Fresh blueberries bring juiciness and natural sweetness.
- ½ cup white sugar: To sweeten the berries just right.
- 4 teaspoon cornstarch: This thickens the filling and prevents it from getting too runny.
- Juice of 1 lemon: It complements the blueberries wonderfully.
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Delivers a creamy, dreamy texture that pairs excellently with blueberries.
- ¼ cup sugar: Sweetens the rich cream cheese mixture.
- 1 egg: Adds a luscious creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that warm, aromatic flavor.
With these essential ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating your own scrumptious blueberry cream cheese crumb bars! For tips on finding the best ingredients, check out this guide on choosing fresh blueberries.
Preparing Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
When you're in the mood for something sweet, these blueberry cream cheese crumb bars are sure to satisfy. They blend the tartness of blueberries with a creamy filling and a crumbly crust, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. So, let’s dive into the simple steps to prepare these delightful bars!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start, it’s essential to have all your ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
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For the crust and crumble:
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1 cup white sugar
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 cup cold butter (2 sticks, cubed)
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1 egg
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For the blueberry filling:
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4 cups fresh blueberries
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½ cup white sugar
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4 teaspoon cornstarch
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Juice of 1 lemon
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For the cream cheese filling:
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4 oz cream cheese (softened)
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¼ cup sugar
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1 egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Having everything ready makes the process more enjoyable and stress-free!
Make the Crumb Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, which helps with easy removal later. In a medium bowl, whisk the sugar, flour, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest together.
Next, cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or a fork. This is where the magic happens! You want the mixture to resemble coarse crumbs. Don’t forget to mix in the egg until everything is combined, but keep that dough crumbly. Press half of this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan and set the other half aside for later.
Prepare the Blueberry Filling
In a large bowl, combine the sugar and cornstarch. Then, add the lemon juice and gently fold in the blueberries until they're well coated. This blueberry mixture is vibrant and delicious; it’s hard not to sneak a taste at this stage! Spread this filling evenly over the crust. The blueberries add a wonderful burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Create the Cream Cheese Filling
Next, in a smaller bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. This rich mixture will add a delightful tang to your bars. Dropping spoonfuls of this cream cheese filling over the blueberry layer creates a beautiful contrast and a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Layer the Ingredients and Bake
Finally, sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top of the cream cheese layer, and place the pan in the oven. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Keep an eye on those delicious bars – the aroma will fill your kitchen, tempting everyone nearby!
After baking, let the bars cool at room temperature for at least an hour. Transfer the pan to the refrigerator for 3–4 hours (or overnight) to let those layers set beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, slice into squares, and enjoy your incredible blueberry cream cheese crumb bars!
For an extra flavor boost and to elevate your baking skills, consider checking out resources like Joy of Baking or King Arthur Baking for tips and techniques!
Variations on Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
If you’re looking to mix things up with your blueberry cream cheese crumb bars, why not try a few delicious variations? They’re not only easy to make but also allow for creativity in the kitchen.
Blueberry Almond Crumb Bars
Add a nutty twist to your bars by incorporating almond flour into the crumb mixture. Simply substitute ½ cup of all-purpose flour with almond flour for a rich flavor. You can also sprinkle slivered almonds on top for some extra crunch and nuttiness, making these bars a delightful treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee.
Blueberry Lemon Crumb Bars
For a citrusy zing, introduce more lemon into your blueberry cream cheese crumb bars. Simply increase the lemon juice and zest in both the filling and the crust. The bright flavor will enhance the blueberries and give your bars a refreshing, summer-like quality.
Experimenting with these variations can take your baking to a whole new level. Looking for more inspirations? Check out this article about baking substitutions to keep your creations exciting!
Baking Notes for Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
Baking these blueberry cream cheese crumb bars is a delightful journey! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly:
- Fresh Ingredients: Always choose the freshest blueberries you can find. They add delightful flavor and juiciness to your bars.
- Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the bars to cool in the refrigerator not only enhances the flavors but also makes slicing much easier.
- Customize Your Crust: Feel free to experiment with your crust by adding nuts or oats for extra texture.
- Serving Suggestions: These bars are fantastic on their own, but a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the experience.
For more blueberry goodness, check out Blueberry Pie or explore variations like a Blueberry Cheesecake. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Serving suggestions for Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
When it comes to serving your delightful blueberry cream cheese crumb bars, the possibilities are endless! Here are some tasty ideas to elevate your baked treat:
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Serve Warm or Chilled: These bars are delicious both warm and chilled. Warm them slightly in the microwave for a gooey texture, or serve them cold for a refreshing bite.
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Pair with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream atop these bars creates a delightful contrast. The creaminess complements the tart blueberries beautifully.
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Beverage Pairings: Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing lemon-infused sparkling water. These drinks enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
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Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar on top for presentation, or add fresh blueberries for an extra pop of color and flavor.
No matter how you serve them, these blueberry cream cheese crumb bars are bound to impress your guests!
Tips for Making Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
Creating delightful blueberry cream cheese crumb bars is all about the details! Here are some essential tips to ensure your bars turn out perfectly every time:
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Choose Fresh Blueberries: The fresher the blueberries, the better the flavor! Opt for ripe, plump berries for that burst of juiciness.
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Don’t Skip the Chilling: Letting your bars chill in the refrigerator for several hours helps set the layers. It’s tempting to slice right away, but patience really pays off!
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Use Cold Butter: For a crumbly, buttery crust, make sure your butter is cold when you mix it into the dry ingredients.
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Layer Wisely: When adding the cream cheese filling, don’t worry about it being perfectly spread. It will bake down beautifully around the blueberries.
For more tips on baking, check out this comprehensive guide that includes expert advice and techniques!
Time details for Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
Preparation time
Getting your blueberry cream cheese crumb bars ready is a breeze! You’ll need about 20 minutes to prepare the crust, filling, and crumb mixture.
Baking time
Once everything is assembled, pop the pan in the oven for approximately 45 minutes. Keep an eye out for that lovely golden top!
Total time
From prepping to baking, the total time invested is around 1 hour and 5 minutes. Don’t forget to let your bars chill in the fridge for 3-4 hours (or overnight) for the best results! Enjoy while you unwind with a good book or your favorite show.
For more dessert inspirations, check out this excellent article on blueberry desserts that can inspire your culinary creativity. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information for Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
When indulging in blueberry cream cheese crumb bars, a little knowledge about their nutritional profile can enhance your experience. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’re savoring:
Calories
Each serving of these luscious bars packs about 250 calories. Perfect for a satisfying treat without going overboard!
Protein
With approximately 3 grams of protein per serving, these bars offer a small boost, thanks to the cream cheese and egg. Not a protein powerhouse, but delightful nonetheless.
Sodium
Each serving contains around 150 mg of sodium. It's modest and makes these bars a delicious dessert, even for those watching their salt intake!
For more insights, feel free to explore the USDA's nutritional database for detailed food information!
FAQs about Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Using frozen blueberries can be a great time-saver and they work well in this recipe. Just be sure to toss them in a little flour before adding to the filling—this helps prevent them from becoming mushy. No need to thaw; you can use them straight from the freezer.
How do I store the bars?
To keep your blueberry cream cheese crumb bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll stay delicious for about 5–7 days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn!
Can I substitute any ingredients in the recipe?
Certainly! You can swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-sensitive version. Feel free to customize based on your preferences and dietary needs—experimenting is half the fun!
For more tips and tasty variations, check out resources on ingredient substitutions like Eat Right. Enjoy baking!
Conclusion on Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
These blueberry cream cheese crumb bars are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with a rich, creamy filling that elevates them to dessert perfection. They’re easy to make and great for sharing at gatherings. Enjoy the delightful layers and the burst of fresh blueberries in every bite!
Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry cutter
Ingredients
Crust & Crumble
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 whole lemon (zest)
- 1 cup cold butter (cubed) 2 sticks
- 1 whole egg
Blueberry Filling
- 4 cups fresh blueberries
- ½ cup white sugar
- 4 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 whole lemon (juice)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 whole egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper with overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup sugar, 3 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in the egg. The dough will be crumbly.
- Press half of the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Set the rest aside for topping.
- In a large bowl, stir together ½ cup sugar and 4 teaspoon cornstarch. Add lemon juice, then gently fold in the blueberries until coated. Pour the blueberry mixture evenly over the crust.
- In a small bowl, beat cream cheese with ¼ cup sugar until smooth. Add in the egg and vanilla. Mix until creamy. Drop spoonfuls of this cheesecake mixture over the blueberry layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and the center is set.
- Let the bars cool completely at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Then, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for 3–4 hours, or overnight, before slicing.
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