Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their creamy filling, sweet-tart berries, and buttery oat crumble, they strike a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, these bars are sure to impress. Their easy preparation and appealing presentation make them a go-to dessert that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy cream cheese and fresh blueberries creates a delightful taste that is both rich and refreshing.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master these bars in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for parties, picnics, or as an afternoon snack, these bars fit any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars store well in the refrigerator, making them an ideal dessert for meal prep or entertaining.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out blueberries for raspberries or mix in your favorite nuts for added crunch.

Tools and Preparation

To make the process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for creating thick and chewy bars that bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without mess; larger bowls help prevent spills.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending ingredients smoothly, particularly when mixing cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk.

Ingredients

These bars have a creamy filling, tart berries and a buttery oat crumble on the bottom and top!

For the Base and Topping

• 3/4 cup butter (softened)
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/3 cups flour
• 1 1/3 cups quick oats (uncooked)

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 cup blueberries (or raspberries)

How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×13 inch pan by lining it with parchment paper or coating it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a large bowl:
1. Mix together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
2. Stir in the baking soda, salt, flour, and quick oats until just mixed.
3. Press half of this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 13 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

While the crust is baking:
1. In another large bowl, add the cream cheese.
2. Stir until smooth using a whisk.
3. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk while whisking to ensure it mixes well.
4. Add in the vanilla extract and egg yolk; mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Once the crust has baked:
1. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked layer evenly.
2. Gently add your choice of berries on top of this layer.
3. Sprinkle over the remaining oatmeal mixture and lightly press down.

Step 5: Bake Again

Return to the oven:
Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until edges are golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow cooling completely before cutting into squares. Store these delicious Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars in your refrigerator to keep them fresh! Enjoy!

How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Enjoying them with different accompaniments can enhance their flavors and make for a memorable dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve with a side of fresh blueberries or raspberries to complement the fruity flavors in the bars. This adds a refreshing touch.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top will add a light, airy texture that balances the creamy filling beautifully.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these bars on a dessert platter alongside cookies, brownies, and fruit tarts for a diverse dessert spread at gatherings.

With Ice Cream

• Pair these bars with vanilla or berry-flavored ice cream for an indulgent treat that combines warm and cold sensations.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce over the top can elevate the dessert, adding richness and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

To ensure your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and egg yolk are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir gently when combining ingredients to keep the filling light and fluffy.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars during baking; avoid overbaking for a softer texture.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting to achieve clean slices.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Serving side dishes with your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the tartness of the berries beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a light contrast to the rich bars.
3. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, this dish contrasts well with the texture of the blueberry bars.
4. Lemon Sorbet: The citrusy flavor adds a bright note that enhances the sweetness of the dessert.
5. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a similar flavor profile while providing variety on your plate.
6. Coconut Whipped Topping: A dairy-free option that adds a tropical flair and lightness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars can be a delightful experience, but common mistakes may hinder your results.

• Skipping the cooling time: It’s essential to let the bars cool completely before cutting. This helps maintain their shape and texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use precise measurements for butter, sugar, and flour to ensure the right consistency. A kitchen scale can help with this.
• Overbaking the crust: Keep an eye on the baking time for the bottom layer. Overbaking can result in a dry base, so aim for a light golden color.
• Using cold cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother filling. Cold cream cheese can create lumps that affect texture.
• Neglecting to line the pan: Always line your baking dish with parchment paper or grease it well. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the bars after cooling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Warm on low power for 20-30 seconds or until just heated. Be careful not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars.

Can I use other fruits in Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars?

Yes! Raspberries, strawberries, or even peaches can be great alternatives. Just adjust sweetness as needed.

How do I know when my Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are done?

Look for golden brown edges and set filling as indicators of doneness. The center should not jiggle excessively.

What should I serve with Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars?

They pair well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness.

Can I make these bars vegan?

You can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan cream cheese and a flax egg instead of an egg yolk.

Final Thoughts

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with different fruits or toppings based on your preferences. Try making them today for a tasty dessert that everyone will love!