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Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

These creamy, zesty lemon blueberry cheesecake bars combine bright lemon flavors with sweet blueberries, making a refreshing and delightful dessert.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.5 cups ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 16 ounces 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 0.75 cups ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large 2 large eggs
  • 0.25 cups ¼ cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1 cups 1 cup fresh blueberries (plus more for garnish, if desired)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking pan to create an even layer.
  3. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Allow it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Making the Filling
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until combined.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until you achieve a silky texture.
  3. Gently fold in the blueberries, taking care not to break them up too much.
Baking
  1. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
  2. Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 3 hours—or preferably overnight—to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Serving
  1. Once chilled, remove from the pan and slice into bars. Garnish with additional blueberries and lemon zest if desired.

Notes

Softening cream cheese quickly: Cut it into small cubes and let it sit on the counter for 15-20 minutes before mixing. To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, do not overmix the filling and avoid opening the oven door while baking.