Ingredients
– For the Crust:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– For the Filling:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, if necessary)
– Topping (optional):
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Making these Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars is a breeze if you follow these clear steps:
1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-inch square baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, softened butter, and salt. Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly texture. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.
5. Add Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries into the cream cheese mixture without breaking them.
6. Combine Mixtures: Pour the cream cheese filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake Again: Return to the oven and bake for another 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly browned.
8. Cool Completely: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Then, refrigerate for 1-2 hours to fully set.
9. Cut into Bars: Once cooled and set, slice the bars into squares, making sure to wipe the knife in between cuts for clean edges.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 bars
- Calories: 205 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g