Are you in search of the perfect dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the delightful crunch of a crumble topping? Look no further than these Buttery Crumble Blueberry Cheesecake Bars! Ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in, these bars offer a delicious twist on traditional cheesecake. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe that walks you through the steps of creating this mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 cups fresh blueberries (frozen can also be used)
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crumble Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
Preparing the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan, forming a firm, even layer. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Making the Cheesecake Filling:
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Spread the blueberries evenly over the pre-baked crust, then pour the cream cheese mixture over the blueberries, spreading to cover them completely.
Creating the Crumble Topping:
- Make the crumble topping: In a small bowl, mix together flour, both sugars, and cinnamon. Pour melted butter over the mixture and stir until everything is moistened and clumpy.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Baking:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crumble topping is lightly golden.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out using the overhanging parchment paper.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before cutting into bars.
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars:
- Ensure all ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling.
- If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them as they can turn the filling soggy.
- For cleaner cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.
Conclusion
These Buttery Crumble Blueberry Cheesecake Bars blend the tangy sweetness of blueberries, the creamy texture of cheesecake, and the rich, buttery flavor of a crumble topping into one irresistible dessert. They’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and become a requested favorite at any event. Whether for a picnic, potluck, or a simple family dessert, these cheesecake bars promise a delightful treat that everyone will love. Give them a try today and discover your new go-to recipe for special occasions and everyday indulgences alike!
Serving and Storage Tips for Buttery Crumble Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
To ensure that every bite of your Buttery Crumble Blueberry Cheesecake Bars is as delicious as the first, follow these essential serving and storage tips:
Serving Tips:
- Room Temperature or Chilled: These bars can be served slightly chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. If serving chilled, take them out of the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving to let them soften slightly, which enhances their flavor and texture.
- Adding Garnishes: To elevate the presentation and add a touch of extra flavor, consider garnishing the bars just before serving. A dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a few fresh blueberries can make these bars even more appealing.
- Pair with Beverages: These cheesecake bars pair wonderfully with a range of beverages. For a cozy dessert, serve them with a cup of coffee or tea. If you’re enjoying them at a brunch or special occasion, a glass of sparkling wine or a light dessert wine complements their richness beautifully.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Buttery Crumble Blueberry Cheesecake Bars should be stored in the refrigerator. Place the bars in an airtight container, or cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep for up to 5 days when stored properly in the fridge.
- Freezing for Long-Term Storage: These cheesecake bars freeze well. To freeze, cut the bars into portions and wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Avoiding Sogginess: If using a topping or garnish that might draw out moisture (like fresh fruit), add it just before serving rather than before storing. This helps maintain the perfect texture of both the crumble and the cheesecake layers.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your Buttery Crumble Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are delicious from the first slice to the last, whether serving them immediately or enjoying them over several days. These bars are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a convenient dessert option that you can make ahead for any occasion.
1. Can I use a different type of berry in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute blueberries with other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of your favorite berries. Keep in mind that some berries might be juicier than others, which could affect the consistency of your filling. Strawberries, if used, should be diced due to their larger size.
2. What can I do if I don’t have fresh berries?
Frozen berries work well in this recipe too. There’s no need to thaw them before use; you can use them directly from the freezer. This might increase the baking time slightly as the cold berries will take a bit longer to heat through. Just make sure to spread them evenly over the crust to ensure consistent cooking.
3. How can I tell when the cheesecake bars are fully baked?
The cheesecake bars are done when the edges are set and slightly golden, and the middle is just slightly jiggly but not liquid. The crumble topping should look golden brown. If you’re unsure, you can use a toothpick or cake tester; it should come out clean when inserted in the center.
4. Is it necessary to line the baking pan with parchment paper?
While not strictly necessary, lining your baking pan with parchment paper makes it much easier to lift out the bars after cooling, which helps in achieving clean, neat cuts. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the baking pan thoroughly with butter or a non-stick spray, but removing the bars cleanly might be more challenging.