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Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars – A Refreshing No-Bake Dessert

Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars – A Refreshing No-Bake Dessert

Memories of Tea, Crafting, and Dessert with My Sister

I remember the time my sister invited me over for a relaxing afternoon of tea, crafting, and catching up on life. As we sat at her kitchen table, surrounded by art supplies and laughter, she surprised me with a plate of these incredible Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars. The combination of the creamy lemon filling, fresh blueberries, and buttery graham cracker crust was pure bliss. The dessert was the perfect complement to our time together, adding a sweet touch to an already perfect day. Ever since that day, these bars have become my go-to treat for special occasions, especially when I want to recreate that feeling of warmth and connection.

Did You Know?

Blueberries: The Antioxidant Powerhouse in Your Cheesecake Bars

Blueberries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants that promote health and well-being. These small, vibrant berries are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as manganese, making them a nutritional powerhouse. Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, blueberries support heart health, improve cognitive function, and may even help lower blood pressure. In this recipe for Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars, fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor and a dose of natural sweetness, complementing the creamy lemon cheesecake filling and enhancing the overall dessert experience.

Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients:

Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup melted butter

Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries

Lemon Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions:

Prepare Crust:

Personal Tip: For an even and firm crust, press the graham cracker mixture with the bottom of a glass.

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8x8-inch baking dish. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.

Make Filling:

Personal Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in your cheesecake filling.

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat until well combined and creamy. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries.

Assemble Bars:

Personal Tip: Spread the filling evenly over the crust to ensure each bar has a uniform layer of creamy goodness.

Pour the filling over the prepared crust and spread it evenly.

Prepare Lemon Glaze:

Personal Tip: Stir constantly to prevent the glaze from burning and to achieve a smooth consistency.

In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, sugar, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly (about 3-4 minutes). Allow to cool.

Add Glaze:

Personal Tip: Drizzle the glaze in a zigzag pattern for a visually appealing finish.

Drizzle the cooled lemon glaze over the cheesecake filling.

Chill:

Personal Tip: For the best texture, let the bars chill overnight.

Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or until set.

Serve:

Personal Tip: Add a few fresh blueberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor.

Once set, cut into 8 bars. Serve chilled, garnished with additional lemon zest and fresh blueberries if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 310, Protein: 6g, Carbohydrates: 38g, Sugars: 27g, Total Fat: 16g, Saturated Fat: 10g, Sodium: 230mg, Fiber: 1g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

  1. Seasonal Blueberries: Use fresh blueberries when they're in season for the best flavor and affordability. You can also freeze extra blueberries to enjoy this dessert year-round without compromising on taste.

  2. Greek Yogurt Substitute: Substitute Greek yogurt with plain yogurt or sour cream if preferred. These alternatives provide a similar creamy texture while offering flexibility based on personal taste preferences or dietary needs.

  3. Honey as a Natural Sweetener: Utilize honey as a natural sweetener in the cheesecake filling instead of refined sugar. Honey adds a distinct flavor profile and enhances the overall richness of the dessert, making it a healthier alternative.

  4. DIY Lemon Zest: Make your own lemon zest by grating fresh lemon peel. This DIY approach ensures freshness and intensifies the lemony aroma in the bars, elevating their flavor without additional cost.

  5. Efficient Ingredient Folding: Gently fold fresh blueberries into the cheesecake filling to evenly distribute their flavor and prevent overmixing. This technique preserves the berries' integrity and ensures they're evenly dispersed throughout each bite.

  6. Optimal Refrigeration: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake filling to set properly. This step enhances the texture and consistency of the bars, resulting in a smooth and creamy dessert.

  7. Presentation with Lemon Glaze: Prepare the lemon glaze using basic pantry staples like sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Drizzle the cooled glaze over the chilled bars just before serving to add a tangy sweetness and decorative finish.

  8. Creative Garnishing: Garnish each serving with additional lemon zest and a few fresh blueberries to enhance visual appeal and add a burst of freshness. These simple touches transform ordinary bars into an eye-catching dessert suitable for special occasions.

  9. Portion Control: Cut the bars into equal portions to ensure consistent serving sizes. This practice not only enhances presentation but also promotes mindful eating, allowing everyone to enjoy a satisfying dessert without excess.

  10. Versatile Dessert Option: Serve Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars at summer gatherings, picnics, or Fourth of July celebrations for a refreshing treat that appeals to all ages. Their vibrant colors and irresistible flavors make them a crowd-pleasing dessert option.

Let's Learn About Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is a soft, mild cheese made from milk and cream, known for its smooth texture and creamy flavor. It comes in a variety of styles, including regular, whipped, and reduced-fat versions. There are also flavored varieties like herb, garlic, and fruit-infused options. Cream cheese is commonly used in baking, spreads, and dips due to its versatility.

When choosing cream cheese, it’s important to check the label for additives. Some brands include stabilizers like guar gum or carrageenan to maintain texture, while others might have higher amounts of sodium or artificial flavors. Organic and natural varieties typically contain fewer additives, making them a cleaner choice.

Additionally, cream cheese can be found in both dairy and non-dairy (vegan) forms, the latter often made from cashews or coconut cream, catering to those with dietary preferences or restrictions. Always check for freshness and avoid products with excessive artificial ingredients for the healthiest options.

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