August 20, 2024

Simple Blueberry Cheesecake Crumble Bars

Get ready to fall in love with these Simple Blueberry Cheesecake Crumble Bars! Imagine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake combined with the juicy burst of fresh blueberries, all nestled under a buttery crumble topping. These bars are a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and crumbly textures that make them impossible to resist. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress your guests or a sweet treat to enjoy with your coffee, these Blueberry Cheesecake Crumble Bars are sure to become a favorite. Easy to make and even easier to devour, they’re the ultimate indulgence for any blueberry lover.

WHY ARE CHEESECAKE BARS GREAT FOR ANY OCCASION?

I love how cheesecake bars are so versatile; they can be dressed up for special events or enjoyed casually as a treat.
These bars are super easy to make and serve, which means I can whip them up quickly for unexpected guests or gatherings.
The creamy, indulgent flavor of cheesecake bars makes them a hit with everyone, so they’re always a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a holiday party or just a family dinner.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

Crust Ingredients:

2 Cups Graham Crackers (crushed): These classic graham crackers are finely crushed to create a sweet and crunchy base for the bars.
3 Tbsp Sugar: Granulated sugar adds a touch of sweetness to the graham cracker crust, helping it bind together.
6 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (melted): Melted butter provides richness and moisture, ensuring the crust holds its shape and has a buttery flavor.

Cheesecake Filling:

32-ounces Cream Cheese (room temp) (4 bricks): Softened cream cheese is the star of the filling, giving it a smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor.
1 Cup Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cream cheese mixture, balancing the tanginess of the cheese.
3 Tbsp Flour: Flour helps to stabilize the cheesecake filling, ensuring a firm and sliceable texture.
½ Cup Sour Cream: Sour cream adds a slight tang and creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor and smoothness of the cheesecake.
2 Tsp Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract brings a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the creamy filling.
4 Eggs (room temp): Eggs bind the ingredients together, giving the cheesecake its structure while keeping it soft and creamy.
3½ Cups Blueberries (fresh) (divided into 3 cups and ½ cup): Juicy, fresh blueberries are folded into the filling and sprinkled on top, adding bursts of fruity flavor.

INGREDIENTS FOR BLUEBERRY CHEESECAKE INSTRUCTIONS

Crumble Topping:

6 Tbsp Salted Butter (cold and cubed): Cold, cubed butter is cut into the crumble mixture, creating a crispy, buttery topping that contrasts with the creamy cheesecake.
⅓ cup Flour: Flour forms the base of the crumble, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
3 Tbsp Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the crumble, helping it caramelize as it bakes.
3 Tbsp Light Brown Sugar (packed): Brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness and enhances the crumble’s texture.
⅓ Cup Quick Oats: Quick oats add a hearty, chewy texture to the crumble topping, making it even more satisfying.

PHOTO OF THE INGREDIENTS TO PREPARE THE CRUMBLE

HOW TO PREPARE BLUEBERRY CHEESECAKE BARS?

Time needed: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Crust Building Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over the sides for easy removal.

In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of crushed graham crackers and 3 tablespoons of sugar. Pour in 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press and Bake the Crust:

Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, ensuring it forms an even layer.

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Cheesecake Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat 32 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and 3 tablespoons of flour, mixing until well incorporated.

Mix in ½ cup of sour cream and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.

Add the 4 room-temperature eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in Blueberries:

Gently fold in 3 cups of fresh blueberries until evenly distributed.
Pour Filling Over Crust:

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Prepare Crumble Topping:

In a small bowl, combine ⅓ cup of flour, 3 tablespoons of sugar, 3 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar, and ⅓ cup of quick oats. Add 6 tablespoons of cold, cubed salted butter.

Using a pastry cutter, fingers, or food processor mix the ingredients until they form a crumbly texture.
Sprinkle the Crumble Topping:

Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.

Add Remaining Blueberries: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of blueberries over the crumble topping.
Bake, Chill, and Serve:

Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the center is set and the crumble topping is golden brown. If using frozen blueberries, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. Turn off the oven and leave the door ajar. Let the cheesecake bars cool in the oven for two hours.

Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan.

Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set.

Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, slice into squares, and serve chilled.

FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?

To use frozen blueberries in your Blueberry Cheesecake Bars, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture. Gently fold the drained blueberries into the batter to avoid streaking. If using frozen berries, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time, checking for doneness when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Ensure all ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before mixing. Avoid overbeating the batter and bake the cheesecake in a preheated oven.

How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools.

What’s the best way to cut the cheesecake bars cleanly?

For clean slices, chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe the knife clean between each cut.

Can I make this recipe without a crumble topping?

Yes, if you prefer a simpler version, you can omit the crumble topping or replace it with a layer of whipped cream.

CHEESECAKE BLUEBERRY CRUMBLE RECIPE ADD-INS AND VARIATIONS:

Switch Up the Crust: Instead of graham crackers, try using crushed digestive biscuits, shortbread, or gingersnaps to give the crust a new flavor.
Add a Tangy Twist: Mix lemon zest and juice into the cheesecake filling for a refreshing zing that pairs perfectly with the blueberries.
Try Different Berries: Swap out the blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or a berry blend to change up the fruit flavor.
Boost the Crunch: Toss some chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts into the crumble topping for extra texture and flavor.
Make It Gluten-Free: Simply use gluten-free graham crackers and flour in the crust and filling to adapt this recipe for a gluten-free option.
Lighten It Up: For a lighter version, use lower-fat cream cheese or swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt.

WHAT IS COMMONLY SERVED WITH CHEESECAKE BARS?

Blueberry Cheesecake Crumble Bars go well with a range of drinks and sides. For a cozy pairing, enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea, which complements their sweetness perfectly. If you prefer something cool, try them with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea. Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can make the dessert even more indulgent. For a lighter touch, a fresh fruit salad or some extra berries on the side would be a great choice.

HOW DO I STORE LEFTOVER CHEESECAKE BLUEBERRY DESSERT FOR LATER?

To keep leftover Blueberry Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Keep them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay good for about a week. If you need to store them for longer, freeze them by wrapping each bar individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight to maintain their flavor and texture.

CAN LEFTOVER BLUEBERRY CRUMBLE CHEESECAKE BARS BE FROZEN FOR LATER CONSUMPTION?

Absolutely, you can freeze leftover Blueberry Cheesecake Crumble Bars for later. Just wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap to keep them from getting freezer burn, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the bars thaw in the fridge overnight to keep them tasting fresh and delicious. It’s a great way to have a tasty treat ready whenever you want!

LOOKING FOR MORE DESSERT RECIPES? TRY THESE!

Quick No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Pie: This delectable dessert combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the vibrant burst of fresh blueberries, all embraced by a heavenly graham cracker crust.

Best Banana Pineapple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: This beloved dessert boasts a symphony of flavors, blending the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the juicy brightness of crushed pineapple.

No-bake Easy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Pie: With only ten ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing peanut butter dessert for any holiday or special occasion.

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