Lemon Blueberry Bars

There’s nothing quite like a batch of fresh Lemon Blueberry Bars to brighten up your day! I remember the first time I made these delightful treats for a summer picnic. The sun was shining, the birds were chirping, and the sweet, tangy aroma of lemons filled my kitchen. Each bite was a burst of flavor, with the juicy blueberries perfectly complementing the zesty lemon filling. It quickly became a favorite in my household, often requested for gatherings and family events. These bars are a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, with a buttery crust, creamy lemon filling, and a streusel topping that adds a satisfying crunch. No matter the occasion, the Lemon Blueberry Bars are sure to be a hit!

Key Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Bars

Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients, and the Lemon Blueberry Bars are no exception. Each component serves a unique purpose, creating a harmonious flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. The key players include the zesty lemons and fresh blueberries, which not only add flavor but also infuse the bars with vibrant colors.

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks, softened): The base for our crust, adding richness and a tender texture.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: Creates the structure of the crust, providing the perfect amount of chewiness.
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats): Adds heartiness to the crust, giving it a lovely texture.
• 1 1/3 cups light brown sugar (packed): Sweetens the bars while adding a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, balancing the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the crust rise slightly, creating a light and airy texture.
• 1 large egg (separated): The egg white binds the crust, while the yolk enriches the lemon filling.
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (1 can): Provides creaminess and sweetness to the filling.
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice: Brings that bright, zesty flavor that makes these bars stand out.
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest (grated): Intensifies the lemon flavor, adding aromatic oils to the mix.
• 2 1/2 cups blueberries (washed and drained, use at room temperature): The juicy burst of flavor that completes these bars.

Putting Together Lemon Blueberry Bars

Making Lemon Blueberry Bars is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. With a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a delicious dessert! Let’s dive into the detailed instructions so you can create this treat.

1. Position a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 350 degrees. This is the perfect temperature to ensure even baking.

2. Line a 9 x 13 inch baking pan with foil, leaving a 1-inch overhang on the ends. This will make it easier to lift the bars out once they’re cooled. Lightly butter the sides and bottom of the foil to prevent sticking.

3. In a large bowl, combine the 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 1/3 cups light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon baking powder. Stir these dry ingredients together until well blended.

4. Using your fingers, blend the 1 cup unsalted butter completely into the flour mixture. You want a crumbly texture that resembles wet sand. This will help create a tender crust.

5. Transfer 2 cups of this crumb mixture to another bowl and reserve it for topping later. This crumb mixture will give your bars a delightful streusel topping.

6. In the bowl with the remaining crumbs, blend in the 1 large egg white until fully incorporated. Then, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a level crust. You want it to be packed down well.

7. Bake the crust until it starts to form a dry top, about 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it set but not browned.

8. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together the 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons lemon zest, and the 1 large egg yolk. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes; it will begin to thicken.

9. Once your crust is ready, sprinkle the 2 1/2 cups blueberries evenly over the hot crust. Then, drop spoonfuls of the lemon mixture over the blueberries. Spread gently with a spatula to distribute, being careful not to crush the berries.

10. Now, bake just until the lemon mixture begins to form a shiny skin, about 7 to 8 minutes. It should not be fully set yet; it will continue to cook with the topping.

11. Sprinkle the reserved topping evenly over the lemon blueberry layer, pressing it between your fingers into small clumps as you sprinkle it on. This creates a beautiful texture and flavor.

12. Return to the oven and bake until the filling is bubbling at the edges and the topping is a lovely brown, about 25 to 30 minutes.

13. Let the bars cool in the pan on a rack until just warm, about an hour. Use the foil overhang to carefully lift them out of the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

14. Once cooled, remove the foil and cut into 24 bars. You can store these at room temperature for a few hours, but for longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.

Change It Up

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your Lemon Blueberry Bars. Here are some fun ways to modify this recipe:

• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be kept at room temperature for a short time.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can be frozen for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
• Flavor Variations: Try substituting the blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or even peaches for different flavors!
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the crust for extra crunch and flavor.

What to Pair With Lemon Blueberry Bars

Pairing the Lemon Blueberry Bars with complementary items can elevate your dessert experience!

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can balance the sweetness of the bars. Consider using seasonal fruits for a vibrant mix.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet adds a delightful creaminess that contrasts with the tangy bars.
• Herbal Tea: Serve these with a cup of chamomile or mint tea for a soothing pairing that enhances the lemon flavor.
• Cheese Plate: For a unique twist, serve with a selection of cheeses. A mild goat cheese complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Picnic Treat: These bars are excellent for outdoor gatherings. They’re portable and can be enjoyed easily while mingling with friends.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Lemon Blueberry Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, making them irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them at a picnic or as a simple dessert at home, they are sure to impress. I encourage you to try making these bars; they are not only easy to prepare, but they also bring a taste of summer to your table all year round. Gather your ingredients and get baking!

Lemon Blueberry Bars

The perfect balance of sweet and tart, Lemon Blueberry Bars are a delightful treat for any occasion. With a buttery crust and creamy lemon filling, every bite is a burst of flavor. These easy-to-make bars are sure to impress your family and friends!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 42 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 7 minutes mins

Servings: 24 bars

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks, softened)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats)
• 1.33 cups light brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 large egg (separated)
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
• 0.5 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest (grated)
• 2.5 cups blueberries (washed and drained, use at room temperature)

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Blender
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Grater

Method

 

1. Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 350 degrees.
2. Line a 9 x 13 inch baking pan with foil, leaving a 1-inch overhang on the ends. Lightly butter the sides and bottom of the foil.
3. In a large bowl, combine the 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 1/3 cups light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon baking powder. Stir these dry ingredients together until well blended.
4. Using your fingers, blend the 1 cup unsalted butter completely into the flour mixture until it resembles wet sand.
5. Transfer 2 cups of this crumb mixture to another bowl and reserve it for topping.
6. In the bowl with the remaining crumbs, blend in the 1 large egg white and press into the bottom of the prepared pan.
7. Bake the crust until it starts to form a dry top, about 10 to 12 minutes.
8. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons lemon zest, and the 1 large egg yolk. Let sit for about 5 minutes.
9. Once your crust is ready, sprinkle the 2 1/2 cups blueberries evenly over the hot crust.
10. Drop spoonfuls of the lemon mixture over the blueberries and spread gently with a spatula.
11. Bake just until the lemon mixture begins to form a shiny skin, about 7 to 8 minutes.
12. Sprinkle the reserved topping over the lemon blueberry layer, pressing it between your fingers into small clumps.
13. Bake until the filling is bubbling at the edges and the topping is brown, about 25 to 30 minutes.
14. Let the bars cool in the pan on a rack until just warm, about an hour.
15. Carefully lift them out using the foil overhang and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
16. Once cooled, remove the foil and cut into 24 bars.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Tip 2: You can freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
• Tip 3: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet for added creaminess.
• Tip 4: Try substituting the blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or even peaches for different flavors!
• Tip 5: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the crust for extra crunch and flavor.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.