Imagine everything you love about a classic cheesecake but in a convenient, portable bar—fruity, creamy, and layered with just the right amount of summery sweetness. This Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe brings together a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety smooth cream cheese filling, and a vibrant blueberry topping that swirls together beautifully. Whether you’re baking for a special gathering, packing treats for a picnic, or simply craving a decadent dessert on a busy weeknight, these bars offer all the flavor and elegance of traditional cheesecake with none of the fuss.

Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part of this Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is how it uses simple, straightforward ingredients that work together to deliver an irresistible result. Each component—crust, filling, and fruity topping—plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor contrast.

Graham cracker crumbs: Set the stage for your cheesecake bars with this foundational, buttery crust that offers just the right crunch.
Granulated sugar: Balances tartness and sweetness in both the crust and filling, adding structure and flavor.
Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust together and provides a rich, toasty flavor that shines through every bite.
Cream cheese, softened: Gives your filling its signature creamy texture and tang—be sure it’s properly softened for smooth blending.
Large eggs: Add structure and help create that custardy, luscious cheesecake layer.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor profile of the filling with fragrant warmth.
Lemon juice: Brightens both the filling and blueberry topping with subtle citrus notes (add zest for more zing!).
Sour cream: Adds another layer of creaminess and a slight tang that elevates the classic cheesecake flavor.
Fresh or frozen blueberries: The heart of the fruity swirl—frozen berries work just as well as fresh for juicy bursts of flavor.
Cornstarch mixed with water: Thickens the blueberry topping so it holds its beautiful swirls in the cheesecake layer.

How to Make Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures an even, golden bake for your crust. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting it overhang for effortless lifting once your bars are set. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until all the crumbs are coated and have the texture of wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan—use a flat measuring cup or your hands for an even surface. Pop it in the oven for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and completely lump-free—this step is crucial for a silky texture in your Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each. Stir in the vanilla, lemon juice, and sour cream until combined. Pour this luscious cream cheese filling over your pre-baked crust and smooth out the top with a spatula for an even layer.

Step 3: Cook the Blueberry Topping

Grab a small saucepan and combine your blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook them over medium heat until the berries start to burst and break down, releasing their juices—this should take about 5 minutes. Stir in your cornstarch-water slurry and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, just until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Allow it to cool slightly before you top the cheesecake layer. Once cooled, spoon the blueberry topping over the filling and use a knife to swirl it gently, creating gorgeous ribbons of flavor and color.

Step 4: Bake and Chill

Bake the assembled bars for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set and barely jiggles when gently shaken. Overbaking can cause cracks, so keep an eye on them toward the end. When done, let the pan cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate your bars for at least 3 hours to allow them to set fully and develop that trademark cheesecake texture. Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper, slice, and enjoy!

How to Serve Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Garnishes

These bars shine all on their own, but adding a flourish of whipped cream or fresh blueberries right before serving takes them to an entirely new level. A sprinkle of lemon zest just before eating gives a punch of brightness and color that celebrates the fruitiness of this Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe.

Side Dishes

Pair your bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a full-on dessert experience, or serve alongside a medley of fresh summer berries for a light and refreshing contrast. A cup of coffee or tea turns a midday sweet treat into a delightful break worth savoring.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or picnics, arrange the bars on a rustic wooden board with extra berries and mint leaves for a touch of elegance. Cut them into smaller, bite-sized squares for a dessert buffet or stack them on a tiered platter for a visually stunning centerpiece. Nestle each bar in a cupcake liner for an easy-to-grab, mess-free dessert option at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have extras, store your Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to five days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months, ready for whenever a cheesecake craving strikes. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

These bars are best enjoyed chilled straight from the fridge, but if you prefer a softer bite, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. There’s no need to re-bake or microwave, as this can alter the creamy, dreamy texture of your bars.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for the topping?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as beautifully in this Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe as fresh ones do—there’s no need to thaw, just cook them directly from frozen and proceed with the recipe.

What’s the best way to get clean slices?

For sharp, bakery-style squares, always use a long, sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut. The extra chilling time also helps the bars firm up for neater slices.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out regular graham cracker crumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternative. Double-check the labels to ensure all other ingredients meet your dietary needs.

How do I boost the lemon flavor?

For a brighter citrus pop, stir fresh lemon zest into the filling or top each bar with a touch of zest just before serving.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Easily! Double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the bake time as needed. This Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe scales up beautifully for parties and potlucks.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wanted all the deliciousness of cheesecake in a fun, shareable form, this Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is the one to try. It’s sweet, creamy, and full of blueberry bliss in every bite—perfect for both special occasions and everyday indulgence. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend or two, and enjoy making (and eating!) a dessert that’s bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.8 from 10 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet blueberries, and buttery graham cracker crust with these delectable Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup sour cream

For the blueberry topping:

1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar, then add eggs, vanilla, lemon juice, and sour cream. Pour over the crust.
Create the blueberry topping: Cook blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice until thickened. Spoon over the cheesecake layer.
Bake and chill: Bake for 35–40 minutes, cool, then chill for at least 3 hours before slicing.