Name: Lemon Blueberry Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for filling); 1/2 cup fresh blueberries; Powdered sugar, for dusting

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Bright, tangy lemon bars studded with juicy blueberries, baked to a golden finish and dusted with powdered sugar. These bars offer the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them an ideal treat for picnics, gatherings, or simply as a refreshing dessert at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon blueberry bars combine the zesty brightness of fresh lemon with bursts of sweet blueberries, all layered over a buttery shortbread crust. They are easy to make, require simple ingredients, and slice beautifully for sharing. The vibrant flavors and eye-catching appearance make them perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

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

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the filling:
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup fresh blueberries

Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
While the crust bakes, whisk together the sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour until smooth.
Pour the filling over the warm crust and sprinkle the blueberries evenly over the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the filling is set and just slightly golden at the edges.
Cool completely in the pan. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 9 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Calories: approximately 280 kcal per serving

Variations

Use raspberries or blackberries in place of blueberries for a different flavor.
Add a tablespoon of shredded coconut to the crust for extra texture.
Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze instead of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier crust.
Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the filling for a subtle spice note.

Storage/reheating

Store lemon blueberry bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. Freezing is possible for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but do not thaw them before adding to the filling to prevent excess moisture.

Why is my filling runny?

Ensure the bars are fully cooled before slicing, as the filling firms up as it cools.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for both the crust and filling.

How do I know when the bars are done?

The filling should be set and no longer jiggle in the center when gently shaken.

What type of lemon works best?

Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor; Meyer lemons offer a slightly sweeter taste.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, bake in a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time as needed.

How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?

Press it firmly and evenly into the pan and ensure the butter is cold when mixing the dough.

Do I need to refrigerate the bars?

Yes, refrigerate to help set the filling and keep the bars fresh.

Can I add cream cheese to the filling?

Yes, blend in 2 ounces of softened cream cheese for a richer filling.

What’s the best way to slice the bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat slices.

Conclusion

Lemon blueberry bars are a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that combines bright citrus and sweet fruit over a buttery crust. Whether served at a picnic, afternoon tea, or as a simple treat, these bars offer a burst of fresh flavor in every bite. Enjoy chilled, dusted with powdered sugar for the perfect finish.

Lemon Blueberry Bars

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 9 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Bright, tangy lemon bars studded with juicy blueberries, baked to a golden finish and dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet-tart treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix flour and powdered sugar. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into pan and bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
In another bowl, whisk sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour until smooth. Pour over warm crust. Sprinkle blueberries evenly over top.
Bake 20-25 minutes until filling is set. Cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar and slice into bars.