These luscious dessert bars feature layers of buttery crumb crust, tangy cream cheese filling, and sweet-tart blueberries baked to perfection. A melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s rich, fruity, and irresistibly creamy, they’re the perfect addition to any dessert spread. Whether served at a brunch, tea gathering, or as a weeknight indulgence, these bars combine comforting textures with bright, bold flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars strike a beautiful balance between sweet and tangy, crisp and creamy. You’ll love the buttery, tender crumb crust that acts as both the base and topping, sandwiching a smooth cream cheese layer and juicy, fresh blueberries. These bars are simple to prepare and easy to slice into portable portions—perfect for potlucks, picnics, or storing for later. They’re a lovely way to highlight seasonal berries in a rich yet refreshing dessert.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crust & Topping:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Berry Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons sugar

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the salt, vanilla extract, baking powder, and flour. Mix until the dough is crumbly and evenly blended.
4. Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with the sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Pour and spread this mixture evenly over the crust.
6. Toss the blueberries with cornstarch, lemon juice, and sugar. Distribute evenly over the cream cheese layer.
7. Crumble the remaining dough over the top.
8. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
9. Cool completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

Makes approximately 16 bars.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40–45 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: 2 hours

Variations

• Mixed Berry Bars: Use a combination of raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a brighter citrus flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Cinnamon Twist: Add a dash of cinnamon to the dough for warm, spiced undertones.
• Nut Crust: Mix finely chopped pecans or almonds into the dough for a crunchy texture.

storage/reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To serve warm, microwave individual bars for about 10–15 seconds.
They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap each bar in parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but do not thaw them before use. Increase the cornstarch to prevent excess moisture.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The top should be golden and slightly firm to the touch. The cream cheese layer should not jiggle in the center.

Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?

Yes, though the filling may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time to 50–55 minutes.

Are these bars suitable for transport?

Yes, once fully cooled, they hold their shape well and can be stacked with parchment between layers.

What if I don’t have lemon juice?

You can substitute with a small amount of orange juice or omit it entirely if necessary.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

How do I get clean cuts when slicing?

Chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Is it possible to make these dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter alternatives, though results may vary slightly.

Can I use a food processor for the crust?

Yes, a food processor works well to mix the dough to a crumbly consistency.

Conclusion

Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Bars are a delightful blend of textures and flavors—crisp, creamy, and bursting with berry goodness. Simple to prepare and beautiful to serve, they are an excellent choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dessert tables. Enjoy them chilled or slightly warmed, and savor every bite of this comforting classic.

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