Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Blueberry Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet tang of blueberries, all layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. This dessert is perfect for those who love the classic flavors of a blueberry cheesecake but prefer the convenience and portability of a bar. Whether you're serving these at a summer picnic, a family gathering, or as a treat for yourself, these bars are sure to impress.

History

The concept of cheesecake dates back to ancient Greece, but the addition of fruit toppings and variations in the form of bars are much more modern innovations. The blueberry cheesecake bar, as we know it today, likely evolved from the American love for both fruit pies and cheesecakes. Combining these two into a bar form makes for an easier-to-serve dessert that maintains all the beloved flavors.

Ingredients

6 tbsp melted butter
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 packages (8 oz each) softened cream cheese
0.75 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 jar (10 oz) blueberry jam or preserves
1 cup blueberries

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a 13x9 inch baking pan, mix the butter and graham crumbs together and press firmly onto the bottom of the pan.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy.
Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla to the cream cheese and beat until well blended.
Set the mixture aside.
Stir the jam in the jar until softened, then spread it evenly onto the crust.
Sprinkle the blueberries over the jam and evenly top with the cream cheese mixture.
Bake for 30 minutes or until slightly puffed.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Cut into 24 bars and serve.
Store any leftover bars in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations

Try using raspberry or strawberry preserves for a different berry flavor.
Add a lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a citrusy twist.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in your batter.

- Gently fold the blueberries into the jam to avoid crushing them.

- For a firmer crust, bake it for 10 minutes before adding the filling.

- Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch—just make sure to thaw and drain them first.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are perfect as is, but for an extra touch, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For a more decadent dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is wonderful.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the crust before adding the filling can prevent it from becoming soggy. Also, mixing the cream cheese mixture at a medium speed avoids incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond flour instead of graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free and low-carb crust.

- Substitute Neufchatel cheese for cream cheese to reduce fat content.

- Maple syrup or honey can replace sugar for a more natural sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

These bars can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to meld together more, enhancing the overall taste.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the bars into small squares and garnish each with a fresh blueberry or a mint leaf. Serving them on a platter with a lace doily underneath can add an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, fruity white wine or a sparkling wine pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy flavors of the cheesecake bars. For a non-alcoholic option, a lemonade or a berry-infused iced tea complements the dessert well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These bars are best enjoyed cold and do not require reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Blueberry Cheesecake Bars contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a relatively indulgent treat, best enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Blueberry Cheesecake Bars contains approximately 28 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the sugar and graham cracker crumbs.

Fats

These cheesecake bars are rich in fats, with about 15 grams per serving. The fats primarily come from the cream cheese and butter, contributing to the dessert's creamy texture.

Proteins

Each bar provides around 4 grams of protein, mainly from the cream cheese and eggs.

Vitamins and minerals

Blueberries are a good source of Vitamin C and K, contributing to the overall nutritional value of these bars. Additionally, the eggs and cream cheese offer some B vitamins.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include dairy (cream cheese, butter) and eggs. It's also important to check the graham cracker crumbs for potential allergens like wheat.

Summary

While Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a delicious treat, they are high in sugars and fats. They do provide some nutritional benefits from the blueberries, cream cheese, and eggs, such as vitamins and protein.

Summary

Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful twist on the traditional cheesecake, offering the same delicious flavors in a more convenient form. With their creamy filling, fruity topping, and buttery crust, they're sure to be a hit at any gathering. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother, passed down through the generations. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on the handwritten recipe, its faded ink barely legible. The ingredients were simple, but the instructions were a bit vague. I knew I had to give it a try.

I remember the first time I attempted to make these bars. I gathered the necessary ingredients – cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, graham cracker crumbs, butter, and of course, fresh blueberries. I followed the instructions as best as I could, mixing and baking with care. The smell of the blueberries mingling with the creamy cheesecake filling filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the bars were finally done and cooled, I couldn't wait to try them. I cut myself a small piece and took a bite. The combination of the tangy cheesecake and the sweet blueberries was like nothing I had ever tasted before. It was a delicious revelation, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my repertoire.

As I continued to make these Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, I experimented with different variations. I added a touch of lemon zest to the filling for a refreshing twist, or sprinkled some crushed almonds on top for a bit of crunch. Each time I made them, they turned out perfectly, much to the delight of my family and friends.

Over the years, I shared this recipe with others, passing it on to anyone who expressed an interest in baking. I remember teaching my granddaughter how to make these bars, showing her the proper way to fold in the blueberries and how to achieve the perfect creamy texture for the filling. She was a quick learner, and soon she was making these bars on her own, proudly serving them to her friends and classmates.

One day, while browsing through a magazine, I came across a recipe contest for a local baking competition. The theme was "blueberry desserts," and I knew immediately that I had to enter my Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. I spent hours perfecting my recipe, adjusting the measurements and baking time until I was satisfied with the results. When the day of the competition arrived, I nervously presented my bars to the judges, hoping that they would appreciate the love and care that went into creating them.

To my delight, my Blueberry Cheesecake Bars won first place in the competition. The judges raved about the flavors and textures, praising the balance of sweetness and tartness in each bite. I was overjoyed, knowing that my great-grandmother would have been proud of me for carrying on her legacy through this recipe.

As word spread about my award-winning Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, I received requests from local bakeries and cafes to supply them with my delicious creation. I happily accepted, enjoying the process of baking these bars in larger quantities and sharing them with even more people. It was gratifying to see how something as simple as a recipe could bring so much joy to others.

Now, as I look back on the journey that led me to discover this recipe for Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, I am grateful for the moments of curiosity and experimentation that shaped my culinary skills. The memories of mixing and baking, of sharing and teaching, are woven into the fabric of my family's history, a sweet reminder of the love and connection that food can bring. And as I continue to bake these bars for years to come, I know that each bite will carry with it a taste of tradition and a hint of nostalgia, a celebration of the past and a promise for the future.