There’s something magical about the combination of fresh, juicy blueberries and rich, creamy cheesecake. Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are that magical treat that offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures, all in one easy-to-make dessert bar. The buttery crust, sweet cream cheese layer, and tart blueberries create a dessert that feels both indulgent and light, perfect for any occasion.

I first tried these bars at a summer picnic, and they quickly became my go-to dessert for gatherings. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also a real crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how you can make these irresistible bars right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

Get ready to discover a new favorite dessert that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are about to become your go-to treat!

First off, they’re easy to make with basic ingredients you likely already have on hand. With a straightforward crust, creamy filling, and fresh berries, you’ll have these bars ready in no time.

The balance of flavors is unbeatable. The buttery crust, tangy cream cheese filling, and juicy blueberries create an incredibly satisfying bite.

This recipe is versatile, allowing for substitutions to suit your preferences or what’s in season. Try swapping out blueberries for raspberries or strawberries when you want to switch things up.

Best of all, these bars are perfect for making ahead. Chill them in the fridge, and they’re ready to grab whenever you’re craving a sweet treat!

Ingredients Notes

The ingredients for these Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are simple but work together beautifully to create layers of flavor. Here’s a look at some of the key components and tips for choosing the best ingredients.

All-Purpose Flour: This makes up the base for the crust, giving it structure and a buttery crumb. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the salt in the recipe. It adds a rich, buttery flavor to the crust and helps hold it together. Make sure to melt the butter for easy mixing with the flour and sugar.
Cream Cheese: The star of the creamy filling! Full-fat cream cheese creates a smooth, rich texture that contrasts perfectly with the crust and berries. For a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, but the filling may be slightly less creamy.
Sugar: A mix of sugar in the crust and filling adds the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the berries. Use granulated sugar, as it blends well with both the cream cheese and the crust.
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries work well here, but fresh berries provide a slightly firmer texture. If using frozen blueberries, thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

No special equipment is required beyond a basic 9x13-inch baking pan and a mixer for the cream cheese filling.

How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars

These bars come together in a few simple steps. With a little bit of layering and baking, you’ll have an impressive dessert ready in under an hour!

Prepare the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will make it easy to lift the bars out of the pan after they’ve cooled. Combine flour, melted butter, and sugar to create a crumbly mixture, and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Mix the Cream Cheese Layer: While the crust is baking, prepare the cream cheese layer. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. This layer will be luxuriously creamy and sweet with a hint of tang.
Add the Blueberries: Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the cream cheese mixture over it and spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle the blueberries evenly over the cream cheese layer. The blueberries will bake into the filling, creating bursts of juicy flavor in every bite.
Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cream cheese layer is set and the edges are slightly golden. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack before chilling in the refrigerator for at least an hour to firm up.
Slice and Serve: Once chilled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars from the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy the perfect bite of creamy, fruity goodness!

Storage Options

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are great for storing, making them a fantastic make-ahead option for gatherings or quick treats throughout the week.

Refrigerator: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavor improves as they sit, and the bars remain perfectly creamy and delicious.
Freezer: If you’d like to store them longer, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
On the Go: These bars can be packed in a cooler for picnics or outdoor events. Keep them in an insulated container to maintain their creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

These bars are versatile, so feel free to make adjustments based on your taste or dietary needs.

Swap the Berries: While blueberries are fantastic, you can easily substitute them with raspberries, blackberries, or sliced strawberries. Each will add a unique flavor twist to the cream cheese filling.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Add Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest in the cream cheese mixture can brighten the flavors and add a hint of citrus that pairs beautifully with blueberries.
Crumble Topping: For extra crunch, sprinkle a crumble topping of oats, brown sugar, and butter over the blueberries before baking.
Lower-Fat Cream Cheese: You can use reduced-fat cream cheese, but be aware the texture may be slightly less rich. Neufchâtel cheese is another good substitute that keeps the bars lighter while still creamy.

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are all about experimenting to make them your own. Whether you stick with the classic version or try a variation, you’ll have a dessert that’s sure to impress.

These Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of cheesecake with a fruity twist. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a delightful treat that’s easy to make, easy to store, and always a hit. Enjoy them as a dessert, a snack, or even a sweet breakfast treat – you’ll love every bite!