Easy Lemon Blueberry Bars – Sweet, Tangy Summer Dessert

When it comes to creating a summer dessert that strikes the perfect balance between tartness and sweetness, nothing beats lemon blueberry bars. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet, juicy blueberries on top of a graham cracker crust offers a refreshing and delicious treat perfect for warm days. Whether you’re making these bars for a family gathering or a casual snack at home, they’re sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making lemon blueberry bars and explore some tips and variations to help you perfect the recipe.

Why You Should Try Lemon Blueberry Bars

Lemon blueberry bars are ideal for summer because of their light, refreshing flavors. The tart lemon filling combined with blueberries creates a mouthwatering contrast that is both satisfying and not too heavy. This dessert is perfect for picnics, outdoor parties, or even as an after-dinner treat. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them a favorite among home bakers.

If you enjoy experimenting with different desserts, you might also love trying something new like the Ultimate Guide to Making Butterscotch Pie, another delicious option to expand your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these delicious lemon blueberry bars, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, most of which are pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Lemon Blueberry Filling:

• 2 large egg yolks
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

The combination of fresh lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk provides the perfect balance of tart and sweet. You’ll also love how easy it is to assemble and bake these bars, making them an ideal option for quick, yet impressive desserts.

For another take on comfort desserts, consider exploring Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Noodles, a savory dish that can complement the sweet treats in your meal plan.

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and lemon zest. Stir until all the crumbs are well-coated.
3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish, making sure to form an even layer.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, until the crust is set and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Blueberry Filling

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk.
2. Slowly add the lemon juice and lemon zest, whisking until the mixture begins to thicken.
3. Fold in the fresh blueberries gently to avoid breaking them.
4. Pour the mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake and Chill

1. Bake the bars for 15–17 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
2. Remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating them for at least 1 hour. This helps the filling set properly and ensures they are firm when cut.

Nutritional Information

Lemon blueberry bars are a treat that can be enjoyed without feeling overly indulgent. Below is the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 177
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g

For those looking to reduce calorie intake, you can substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a lighter version or use a gluten-free crust if needed.

Tips for Making Perfect Lemon Blueberry Bars

Preventing a Soggy Crust

To avoid a soggy graham cracker crust, make sure the crust is baked until it is fully set. This is key to ensuring that the filling doesn’t seep into the base, which can create a soggy texture. You can also press the crust firmly into the baking dish to avoid any gaps where moisture might collect.

Don’t Overbake the Filling

Overbaking can cause the filling to crack or become rubbery. The key is to remove the bars from the oven while the center still has a slight jiggle. As the bars cool and set in the fridge, the filling will firm up to the perfect consistency.

Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor, always use fresh lemons and blueberries. The zest and juice from fresh lemons add brightness that enhances the overall taste of the bars. Fresh blueberries, on the other hand, provide a burst of sweetness that complements the tart lemon filling.

Variations and Customizations

Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Bars

You can easily make these bars gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a simple substitution without affecting the flavor or texture.

Dairy-Free Version

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, swap the sweetened condensed milk for a coconut-based version. This will still give you a creamy filling but with a slight coconut flavor that pairs well with the blueberries and lemon.

Try Different Berries

Want to mix things up? You can substitute the blueberries with other berries such as raspberries or blackberries. Each option offers a unique flavor profile, but they all pair wonderfully with the zesty lemon filling.

How to Store Lemon Blueberry Bars

In the Refrigerator

Once the bars are set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 4 days, making them a great make-ahead option for events or family gatherings.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Bars

You can freeze lemon blueberry bars for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight. Be aware that freezing may slightly change the texture of the blueberries.

FAQs About Lemon Blueberry Bars

Can I Use Frozen Blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but keep in mind they may release more moisture during baking, which can affect the consistency of the filling. To avoid this, thaw the blueberries and pat them dry before incorporating them into the filling.

Can I Freeze Lemon Blueberry Bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Just be sure to wrap them securely in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge before serving.

What Can I Use Instead of Sweetened Condensed Milk?

If you’re looking for a substitute, you can try using cream cheese for a richer, thicker filling, or opt for a dairy-free condensed milk if you want to make a dairy-free version of this recipe.

How Do I Prevent My Crust From Becoming Soggy?

To prevent a soggy crust, make sure the graham cracker layer is thoroughly baked and set before adding the filling. You can also allow the crust to cool completely before pouring the lemon filling on top.

Conclusion

Lemon blueberry bars are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert that can be adapted to fit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Their bright and refreshing flavor makes them an excellent choice for any summer occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out a variation, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

If you’re interested in exploring other unique desserts, you might also like the Ultimate Guide to Making Butterscotch Pie, which is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Print