Irresistible Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars with Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Imagine the delightful harmony of flavors and textures in one perfect bite: a tender, buttery crumb base, a rich and tangy lemon cheesecake filling, and a generous topping of juicy, bursting blueberries, all finished with a bright lemon glaze. These aren’t just any dessert bars; these are our extraordinary Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars. They beautifully combine the comforting qualities of a classic coffee cake with the luxurious creaminess of a lemon cheesecake, creating a dessert that’s both familiar and wonderfully decadent. Perfect for any occasion, from a casual brunch to an elegant gathering, these bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a new family favorite.

Our Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars offer a unique twist on traditional desserts. While they share a delightful streusel-like texture with classic coffee cakes, their secret lies in the luscious lemon cheesecake layer nestled within. Each bite delivers a vibrant explosion of fresh lemon zest and sweet, plump blueberries, perfectly complemented by the tender, golden crumb. The final touch? A zesty lemon glaze, drizzled generously while the bars are still warm, infusing them with an irresistible tang that balances the sweetness. Baked conveniently in a 9×13-inch pan, these bars are designed for sharing, though you might find yourself wanting to keep them all to yourself!

This exquisite recipe was proudly featured during #LemonWeek 2022, an annual celebration of all things lemon, hosted by Lynn from Fresh April Flours and Rebecca from Devour Dinner. We were delighted to collaborate with esteemed sponsors like Rodelle and La Tourangelle, whose quality ingredients elevate every dish. Lemon Week brings together passionate food bloggers from around the globe, sharing a diverse array of lemon-infused recipes, from refreshing appetizers and invigorating drinks to savory entrées and, of course, delightful desserts like these bars. We invite you to explore the full spectrum of lemon-inspired culinary creations and discover new ways to brighten your kitchen!

Semi-Homemade Perfection: Lemon Blueberry Bars with Cake Mix

Don’t let the idea of a “semi-homemade” dessert fool you; these Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars are anything but basic. While they thoughtfully incorporate a convenient cake mix for the crumb, this isn’t your average box mix creation. The yellow cake mix forms the foundation of a rich, buttery streusel that serves as both the crust and the delectable crumb topping. This clever shortcut saves time without compromising on flavor or texture, providing a consistent, delicious base that tastes truly homemade. The real magic happens with the luscious, tangy lemon cheesecake filling, crafted from scratch to deliver a creamy, zesty burst that perfectly complements the fruit and crumb.

But the journey to perfection doesn’t end there. Layered over the silky lemon cheesecake filling are plump, juicy fresh blueberries, adding a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color. These are then crowned with more of that delightful streusel mix, creating the signature crumbly topping that makes these bars so irresistible. Once baked to golden perfection, a bright, slightly tart lemon glaze is drizzled over the warm bars. This final touch melts ever so slightly, creating a glossy finish and sealing in the incredible flavors. The result is a dessert so divinely delicious, you’ll swear it was sent straight from heaven, showcasing how a smart shortcut can lead to an extraordinary culinary experience.

If you’re as enamored with the delightful combination of lemon and blueberry as we are, then you absolutely must explore some of our other cherished recipes. Elevate your breakfast or brunch with our delightful Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls, or impress your guests with the stunning layers of our Lemon Blueberry Trifle. And for a truly unique and shareable treat, our delicious Lemon Blueberry Pull-Apart Bread offers an interactive and flavorful experience. Each of these recipes highlights the versatility and sheer deliciousness of this classic flavor pairing.

A Timeless Treat: My Favorite Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars for Over a Decade

These Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars hold a special place in my heart, a recipe I’ve treasured and perfected for well over a decade. My first batch dates back to 2011, created to celebrate the birthday of a dear lifelong friend. Back then, our friendship had already spanned three decades, a testament to countless shared memories and unwavering support. Looking back, it’s incredible to realize that our bond has now extended even further, adding yet another decade to our journey.

It’s interesting how our perception of birthdays shifts over time. I often wonder when that initial excitement of growing older starts to fade. Remember those days when we’d eagerly count by half-years, declaring “I’m seven and a half!” with such pride? Now, most of us don’t find quite the same thrill in adding another year to our age, let alone proclaiming “I’m forty-something and a half.” But I’ve decided to embrace a new perspective: instead of marking another year of age, I choose to celebrate another year of incredible birthdays, filled with joy, connection, and delicious moments like these crumb bars.

Flipping through old photo albums brings a flood of cherished memories. Here are a few snapshots of my friend, Sheri, and me from the vibrant 1980s and early 1990s. Our shared history is rich with experiences: navigating the mysteries of boys, countless sleepovers filled with giggles, daring prank phone calls to “teen lines,” experimenting with makeup, more boys, the freedom of our first cars, cruising on Friday nights, even more boys, late-night phone calls that stretched into dawn, exhilarating concerts, and, yes, did I mention *boys*?

Beyond the youthful adventures, our journey together has spanned monumental life events: weddings, the joyous births of our children, watching our families grow, and the poignant losses of loved ones. Four decades together have woven a tapestry of memories that are as sweet and comforting as these very crumb bars. These moments, both big and small, are what truly enrich life, and sharing them with a dear friend makes every year worth celebrating. It’s a reminder that some connections, like the perfect recipe, only get better with time.

Key Ingredients for Unforgettable Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars

Crafting these sensational Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars begins with selecting a few key ingredients that perfectly balance the sweet, tart, and creamy elements. Each component plays a vital role in creating the layers of flavor and texture that make this dessert truly special:

• Butter: Whether you choose salted or unsalted, high-quality butter is crucial for developing the rich, flaky texture of the streusel crust and topping. It provides that foundational buttery taste that makes the crumb irresistible.
• Yellow Cake Mix: This is our clever shortcut! A standard yellow cake mix lends a consistent, sweet, and buttery flavor to the crumb mixture, giving it a delightful “homemade” essence without the extra effort of measuring multiple dry ingredients.
• Eggs: Large eggs are used as binders, helping to bring the crumb mixture together and providing structure to the creamy cheesecake filling. They ensure both layers are perfectly set and cohesive.
• Lemons: Fresh, ripe lemons are an absolute must for this recipe. We utilize both the vibrant zest and the tangy juice. The zest provides an intense aromatic burst of lemon oil, while the juice delivers that essential tartness to both the cheesecake and the glaze, making the flavors pop.
• Cream Cheese: For the ultimate creamy, luxurious cheesecake filling, opt for full-fat cream cheese. Its richness and smooth texture are unparalleled, creating a decadent contrast to the crumb and fruit. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for a lump-free filling.
• Granulated Sugar: This provides the primary sweetness for both the crumb mixture and the cheesecake filling, balancing the tartness of the lemon and blueberries.
• Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are highly recommended for their vibrant color, juicy texture, and natural sweetness that bursts in your mouth. However, in a pinch, frozen blueberries can also be used; just be sure not to thaw them before adding to prevent excessive moisture.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine sugar is essential for creating our smooth, drizzly lemon glaze. It dissolves beautifully, ensuring a silky finish without a grainy texture.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Own Lemon Blueberry Crumble Bars

Creating these delightful Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars is a straightforward process, broken down into simple steps that even novice bakers can master. The key to success lies in careful preparation and attention to detail, especially when layering the different components. You’ll find a complete list of measurements and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card, but here’s a comprehensive overview of how to achieve baking perfection.

First, begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is at the optimal temperature for even baking as soon as your pan is ready. Next, prepare your 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. These “handles” will make it incredibly easy to lift the entire baked slab of bars out of the pan for cutting later, ensuring clean, perfect slices.

Now, it’s time to create the versatile crumb mixture that forms both the crust and the topping. In a large mixing bowl, microwave your butter until it’s fully melted. To this melted butter, add the entire package of yellow cake mix, one of your large eggs, and two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together until they are well blended and form a thick, cohesive, streusel-like dough. This mixture will be wonderfully fragrant and slightly crumbly.

Once your crumb mixture is prepared, take two-thirds of it and press it evenly into the bottom of your foil-lined 9×13-inch pan. Use your fingers or the bottom of a glass to create a firm, compact crust. This forms the delicious base for your bars.

Next, prepare the star of the show: the creamy lemon cheesecake filling. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until it is smooth and light. Then, incorporate the remaining egg, two teaspoons of fragrant lemon zest (ensuring you only get the yellow part of the peel for pure lemon flavor), and two more tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Continue to beat until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy. Carefully spread this luscious cream cheese mixture over the pressed crumb crust, ensuring an even layer.

Generously top the cheesecake layer with your fresh blueberries. Distribute them evenly over the surface, ensuring a burst of fruit in every bite. Finally, take the remaining one-third of the crumb mixture. Pinch off small pieces and sprinkle them evenly over the blueberries to create that signature crumb topping. This adds another layer of buttery texture and flavor.

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is almost set and the crumb topping is golden brown. A slight jiggle in the center is acceptable, as it will firm up further upon cooling. While the bars are still warm, prepare your bright lemon glaze. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar with the remaining lemon juice, whisking until it reaches a smooth, drizzly consistency. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more lemon juice; if too thin, a touch more powdered sugar.

Generously drizzle this tangy lemon glaze over the warm, baked bars. The warmth of the bars will allow the glaze to slightly melt and spread, creating a beautiful, glossy finish and infusing the top layer with even more lemon flavor.

Once glazed, the most challenging part begins: patience! Allow the bars to cool completely in the refrigerator for approximately one hour. This chilling period is crucial for the cheesecake layer to fully set and for the bars to firm up, making them much easier to cut. After chilling, simply use the foil “handles” to lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and slice them into individual squares or rectangles of your desired size. Now, all that’s left to do is savor and enjoy these heavenly Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars!

Serving and Enjoying Your Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars

The beauty of these Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars lies in their versatility when it comes to serving. While the recipe suggests a chilling period for optimal slicing, the ideal temperature for enjoying them is truly a matter of personal preference. Many believe these bars are at their absolute best when they are just warm enough to enhance the lemony cheesecake filling and soften the crumb slightly, but not so warm that the glaze melts away completely.

If you prefer them chilled, straight from the refrigerator, the cheesecake layer will be firmer, offering a refreshing and tangy bite. For those who enjoy a hint of warmth, simply pop a bar into a toaster oven or microwave for a few minutes at a low temperature (around 200°F/95°C) until gently heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the blueberries to become too soft and the cheesecake to lose its structural integrity. Whether cool or slightly warm, the vibrant flavors of lemon and blueberry will shine through, making each serving a delightful experience.

After enjoying these delectable treats, you’ll want to ensure any leftovers maintain their freshness and incredible flavor. Proper storage is key to extending their deliciousness.

Storing Your Delicious Crumb Bars: Freshness & Freezing Tips

Storage

Due to their creamy cheesecake filling, these Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars should always be kept covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator. An airtight container or a baking dish covered securely with plastic wrap or foil will protect them from drying out and absorbing other fridge odors. Stored this way, they will remain wonderfully fresh and delicious for about 4 to 5 days. However, given how utterly irresistible they are, we seriously doubt they’ll last that long in your fridge!

Freezer Instructions

One of the fantastic qualities of these bars is how beautifully they freeze. The baked cream cheese layer provides a stable, cheesecake-like texture that holds up perfectly to freezing, making them ideal for meal prepping desserts or saving for a future craving. Follow these simple steps for freezing:

• Cool Completely: Ensure the bars are fully cooled to room temperature, and then chilled in the refrigerator, before attempting to freeze them. This prevents ice crystals from forming.
• Skip the Glaze (if freezing long-term): If you plan to freeze the bars for an extended period, it’s best to skip applying the lemon glaze until after they have been thawed. This helps maintain the glaze’s texture and appearance. You can easily whip up a fresh batch of glaze later.
• Cut and Flash-Freeze: Once completely chilled and firm, cut the bars into individual portions. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash-freeze for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Pack for Storage: After flash-freezing, transfer the firm bars to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. For added protection and to prevent freezer burn, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer of bars.
• Thaw and Glaze: When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the frozen bars overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can then drizzle them with a freshly made lemon glaze before serving for that perfect finishing touch.

With proper freezing, these Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars will retain their delightful taste and texture for up to 3 months, offering a convenient and delicious treat whenever you desire.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

These Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic addition to almost any spread, from casual coffee breaks to elegant brunches. Their vibrant, sweet-tart profile allows them to pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and dishes.

• Coffee or Tea: For a simple yet sophisticated pairing, serve these bars alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a comforting mug of hot tea. The slight bitterness of coffee or the subtle tannins of tea beautifully complement the sweetness and tang of the bars.
• Brunch Spreads: If you’re hosting a brunch, these bars make an excellent sweet component. They can effortlessly accompany savory breakfast casseroles, fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a fresh fruit platter. Their bright flavors cut through richer, heavier breakfast items, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Afternoon Treat: Enjoy them as a delightful afternoon pick-me-up with a glass of iced tea or lemonade.
• Dessert Platter: For a larger gathering, include them on a dessert platter alongside other small bites. Their cheerful color and appealing texture make them stand out.
• Garnish Ideas: To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing the bars with a few fresh blueberries, a thin lemon slice, or a delicate sprig of mint. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving can also add a touch of elegance.

Expert Tips for Flawless Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars

To ensure your Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars turn out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind. They address common questions and provide insights that will help you achieve the best possible texture and flavor:

• Glaze Temperature Control: Timing is crucial when applying the lemon glaze. Make sure the bars have cooled slightly from their oven-fresh heat but are still warm to the touch. The ideal temperature allows the glaze to melt just enough to spread beautifully and create a glossy finish, without being so hot that it completely melts and disappears into the bar. If you can comfortably touch the bars without burning your finger, they are ready for glazing.
• Chill Before Cutting: Patience is a virtue, especially with these bars! Always chill the bars completely in the refrigerator before attempting to remove them from the pan or cut them into individual portions. This chilling period is essential for the cheesecake layer to fully set and firm up, preventing a messy, crumbly outcome and ensuring clean, precise cuts.
• Cream Cheese Choice: While you can technically substitute nonfat or low-fat cream cheese for the filling, we highly recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best results. The full-fat version provides an unparalleled richness, creaminess, and decadent mouthfeel that truly elevates the cheesecake layer and contributes significantly to the overall luxurious taste of the bars.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Blueberries: While fresh blueberries offer the best texture and burst of flavor, frozen blueberries can be used in a pinch. If using frozen, do not thaw them beforehand. Add them directly to the cheesecake layer while still frozen to prevent them from bleeding too much color and moisture into the batter during baking.
• Zesting Lemons: When zesting your lemons, make sure to only remove the bright yellow outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. This ensures a pure, bright lemon flavor without any unwanted bitterness.

Explore More Irresistible Bar Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of dessert bars, then you’re in for a treat! We have an extensive collection of bar recipes that are perfect for any craving or occasion. From fruity delights to classic cookie creations, there’s a bar for everyone to enjoy. Expand your baking repertoire with these fantastic options:

• Strawberry Sour Cream Crumb Bars
• Sugar Cookie Bars with White Chocolate
• Raisin Spice Bars
• Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
• Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust
• S’mores Cookie Bars
• Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting (Full Post)
• Rhubarb Crumble Bars (pictured previously)
• Salted Nut Roll Bars
• Dutch Letter Bars
• Fresh Orange Bars

Wednesday #LemonWeek Recipes: A Zesty Collection

As part of our exciting #LemonWeek 2022 celebration, many talented bloggers shared their incredible lemon-inspired creations. Dive into this curated list of diverse and delicious recipes, perfect for any lemon lover:

• Lemon Curd Layer Cake by Fresh April Flours
• Lemon Poke Cake by Blogghetti
• Lemonade Cake by Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
• Crepes with Lemon Curd and Mascarpone by Art Of Natural Living
• Braided Lemon Bread with Blackberries by Karen’s Kitchen Stories
• Chicken Costoletta by Cheese Curd In Paradise
• Lemon Lush by Devour Dinner
• Lemon Cheesecake Bars by Best Cookie Recipes
• Lemon Pudding Cake by The Freshman Cook
• Lemon Cheesecake Bombs by Simply Inspired Meals
• One Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta Recipe by The Fresh Cooky
• Lemon Loaf Cake by A Day In The Life On The Farm
• Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Pudding Cookies by The Spiffy Cookie
• Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars by An Affair From The Heart (That’s us!)
• Mini Lemon Cheesecakes by Kathryn’s Kitchen Blog
• Lemon Sorbet by Jen Around The World
• Lemon Blueberry Waffles by Lemon Blossoms
• Lemon White Chocolate Chip Cookies by Home Cooked Harvest
• Lemon Rosemary Marmalade by That Recipe
• Lemon Crepes by The Redhead Baker
• Glazed Lemon Bundt Cake by Jonesin’ For A Taste
• Lemon Coriander Soup by Magical Ingredients

There’s simply no denying the appeal of these Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars. They are wonderfully lemony, bursting with sweet blueberries—a natural source of antioxidants, by the way! This makes them not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a little boost for your well-being. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself wanting to bake them again and again, for every occasion and just because.

So, let’s embrace the joy, celebrate life, and preserve our youthful spirit by savoring moments and making more delicious memories. Here’s to many more great birthdays and countless batches of these delightful bars!

Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bar Recipe

These Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars are a heavenly combination of zesty lemon, sweet blueberries, and creamy cheesecake, all nestled within a buttery crumb. So lemony good and smothered in antioxidant-rich blueberries, you’ll want to make them over and over again.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Additional Time (Chilling): 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Course: Bars

Cuisine: American

Keywords: 9×13, cake mix, dessert, lemon blueberry cheesecake, Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bar, lemon cheesecake, streusel

Servings: Approximately 12-18 bars (when cut from a 9×13 inch pan)

Calories: 351 kcal (per serving)

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

• 9×13 Pyrex Baking Dish with a Lid

Ingredients

• 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter
• 1 package yellow cake mix (standard size)
• 2 large eggs (divided)
• 2 medium-sized lemons (one zested, both squeezed for juice)
• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 pints fresh blueberries
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 9×13-inch pan with foil, allowing excess to extend over the sides to create “handles.” Microwave the butter in a mixing bowl until melted. To the melted butter, add the cake mix, 1 egg, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Beat with an electric mixer until well blended and crumbly.
3. Press two-thirds of this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth. Add the remaining egg, 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Beat until well combined and creamy.
5. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pressed crust.
6. Top the cream cheese layer generously with the fresh blueberries, distributing them evenly.
7. Take the remaining one-third of the crumb mixture and pinch small pieces evenly over the blueberries to create the crumb topping.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is almost set and the crumb topping is golden brown.
9. While the bars are still warm, prepare the lemon glaze: In a small bowl, whisk the powdered sugar with the remaining lemon juice until it reaches a smooth, drizzly consistency.
10. Drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the warm, baked bars.
11. Allow the bars to cool completely in the refrigerator for approximately one hour. This is crucial for the cheesecake layer to set properly.
12. Once cooled and firm, use the foil “handles” to lift the bars from the pan. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into individual bars.

Notes

I highly recommend using fresh blueberries for the best flavor and texture, but frozen blueberries can also be used. If using frozen, do not thaw them before adding to the bars.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 bar | Calories: 351kcal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 54mg | Sodium: 399mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 42g

This Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars recipe was first published on September 23, 2011. It has since been updated and re-shared on May 24, 2022, to enhance user experience with improved instructions, additional tips, and optimized content.