Lemon Blueberry Bars | YumAndJoy

Lemon Blueberry Bars

Lemon Blueberry Bars are a delightful combination of tart lemon, sweet blueberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust. With their creamy texture and vibrant flavors, these bars are perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon treats, or anytime you crave a refreshing dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Balance of Tart and Sweet: The fresh lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk create a luscious filling.
  • Crunchy and Buttery Crust: Made with graham cracker crumbs and butter for a sturdy yet delicate base.
  • Burst of Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add natural sweetness and a pop of color.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick prep time.
  • Great for Any Occasion: A perfect dessert for brunch, picnics, or parties.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Salted butter (6 tablespoons), melted
  • Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon)

For the Filling:

  • Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 ounces)
  • Fresh lemon juice (½ cup, about 3 lemons)
  • Lemon zest (2 teaspoons)
  • Egg yolks (2)
  • Fresh blueberries (6 ounces)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
  3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth.
  2. Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the lemon-blueberry mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  3. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for 15 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Once fully chilled, slice into 9 squares.
  2. Serve as is or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 9 bars
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Chilling Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Variations

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
  • Berry Mix: Swap blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries.
  • Extra Creamy: Add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the filling for a richer texture.
  • Coconut Twist: Mix ¼ cup shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical flavor.
  • Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the bars before serving.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Reheating: These bars are best served chilled and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture.

Do I need to use salted butter?

You can use unsalted butter, but add a pinch of salt for balance.

Why is my filling too runny?

Ensure the bars chill for at least 2 hours before slicing. The filling will firm up as it cools.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare them a day in advance and keep them refrigerated until serving.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for neat squares.

Can I make this in a larger pan?

Yes, but double the ingredients for a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time.

Is sweetened condensed milk necessary?

Yes, it thickens the filling and provides sweetness. There’s no direct substitute.

Can I add a meringue topping?

Yes! Pipe meringue on top after baking and broil for a golden finish.

What pairs well with these bars?

Enjoy them with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a hot cup of tea.

Can I use Meyer lemons?

Absolutely! Meyer lemons add a slightly sweeter, floral citrus flavor.

Conclusion

These Lemon Blueberry Bars are the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and creamy with a crisp, buttery crust. Whether served for dessert, brunch, or a summer treat, they are an easy and refreshing option that everyone will love. Try them today and enjoy a burst of citrus and berry goodness!

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Lemon Blueberry Bars

Lemon Blueberry Bars


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 9 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Lemon Blueberry Bars are sweet, tart, buttery, and crumbly—the perfect combination of zesty lemon and juicy blueberries! Made with a graham cracker crust and a creamy lemon filling, these bars are an easy and refreshing dessert for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tbsp salted butter (melted)
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Filling:

  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 egg yolks

For the Topping:

  • 6 oz fresh blueberries

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
  4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling

  1. In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

  1. Pour the lemon mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
  2. Sprinkle fresh blueberries over the top.
  3. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.

Step 4: Cool & Serve

  1. Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
  2. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a firmer crust, press the graham cracker mixture firmly before baking.
  • Use fresh blueberries for the best texture and flavor.
  • Chill before slicing to get clean, even bars.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
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