Lemon Blueberry Bars Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Blueberry Bars are a delightful blend of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries that create a refreshing dessert, perfect for any occasion. The buttery crust, zesty filling, and smooth glaze come together to make a treat that’s both satisfying and light. I first made these bars for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit! Everyone loved the bright flavors and the chewy texture, and I found myself quickly jotting down the recipe to share with friends. They’re great for potlucks, summer picnics, or even as a sweet treat after dinner. If you’re a fan of citrus desserts or just looking for a new recipe to impress, these Lemon Blueberry Bars are sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• Pinch of salt

For the Lemon Blueberry Filling:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, powdered sugar, softened butter, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and well combined.
2. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Bake the Bars:

1. Pour the lemon-blueberry mixture over the slightly cooled crust and spread it out evenly.
2. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and just starting to turn golden at the edges.
3. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Prepare the Glaze:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Once the bars are cool, pour the glaze over the top and spread it evenly.

Chill and Slice:

1. Place the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the glaze to set and the bars to firm up.
2. Once chilled, slice into squares and serve.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: 16
• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 20mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Active Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (including chilling time)

How to Serve

• Cut into squares or rectangles.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Garnish with extra lemon zest or blueberries for a beautiful presentation.
• Pair with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Enjoy as a light snack or with afternoon tea.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and blueberries will give the best flavor and brightness to your bars.
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the filling ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid toughening the texture.
3. Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the bars to chill for an hour helps them firm up, making them easier to slice.
4. Glaze Variations: Try adding a bit of lemon zest to the glaze for an extra zing.
5. Check Doneness: The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven; it will firm up as it cools.

Recipe Variations

• Berry Mix: Swap blueberries for raspberries or blackberries for a different flavor profile.
• Coconut Lemon Bars: Add shredded coconut to the crust for a tropical twist.
• Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds and use a plant-based butter.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Lemon-Lime Bars: Replace half of the lemon juice with lime juice for a citrusy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of yogurt for added creaminess.
• Pair with a cup of herbal tea or lemonade for a refreshing afternoon treat.
• Add to a dessert platter alongside other treats for a colorful display.
• Perfect for brunch, serve alongside fruit salads or pastries.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

• Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

2. Can I substitute other fruits?

• Yes! Other berries like raspberries or strawberries work well in this recipe.

3. How can I tell when the bars are done baking?

• The filling should be set and slightly golden at the edges; it will firm up as it cools.

4. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

• Absolutely! They can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

5. What should I do if the glaze is too thick?

• Add more lemon juice a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

• Yes, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

7. How long do leftovers last?

• Leftovers will keep well in the fridge for up to a week.

8. Can I serve these bars warm?

• While they are best served chilled, they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

9. What is the best way to slice the bars?

• Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.

10. Can I add more blueberries?

• Yes! Feel free to add more blueberries for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Blueberry Bars are a simple yet sophisticated dessert that combines the refreshing taste of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries. Their vibrant colors and delightful flavors make them a perfect addition to any gathering. With an easy-to-follow recipe and minimal ingredients, you’ll find that these bars are not only delicious but also a fun baking project. Whether you’re serving them at a picnic, a family gathering, or simply enjoying them as a snack, these bars are sure to brighten your day! So grab your ingredients and get baking—your taste buds will thank you!

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