Irresistibly Delicious Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars with Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Prepare to experience a dessert that beautifully marries two classic favorites: a tender, crumbly coffee cake and a rich, creamy cheesecake. These Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars are an absolute dream come true, combining the best of both worlds into a convenient and utterly delightful bar form. Imagine a buttery, streusel-like crust, a luscious lemon cheesecake filling, bursts of fresh, juicy blueberries, and a sweet-tart lemon glaze drizzled over the top while still warm. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will undoubtedly become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

What Makes These Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars So Special?

Often hailed as lemon blueberry streusel bars or lemon blueberry crumble bars, this recipe elevates a simple dessert into something truly extraordinary. While reminiscent of a traditional strudel-style coffee cake in its crumbly base and topping, the inclusion of a vibrant, homemade lemon cheesecake layer sets these bars apart. The bright, zesty notes of lemon perfectly complement the sweet tang of blueberries, all enveloped in a comforting, crumbly texture. Baking them in a standard 9×13-inch baking pan makes them ideal for sharing, whether at a potluck, family gathering, or simply as a special treat for yourself and loved ones. The final touch of a tangy lemon glaze, applied while the bars are still slightly warm, allows it to seep into the nooks and crannies, enhancing every bite.

Welcome to #LemonWeek 2022 hosted by Lynn from Fresh April Flours and Rebecca from Devour Dinner. This week is sponsored by Rodelle and La Tourangelle. I may have received product samples from these sponsors to help in the creation of my recipes. All opinions are my own. Come join me and my fellow Lemon Week bloggers as we bring you recipes from appetizers to drinks to entrées and desserts! Enter to win the prize package at the bottom of this recipe post!

Easy Lemon Blueberry Bars with a Cake Mix Shortcut

While these might not be your typical “box lemon bars,” this recipe cleverly utilizes a yellow cake mix to create the incredibly tender and flavorful crust and crumb topping. This ingenious shortcut streamlines the baking process without compromising on taste, giving you that delightful “mostly homemade” feel. The cake mix, combined with melted butter and an egg, forms a versatile dough that becomes the foundation and the crown of these bars. But don’t let the cake mix fool you; the homemade lemon cheesecake filling is where the magic truly happens.

Layers of pure deliciousness await: a pressed cake mix crust forms the base, followed by a thick, creamy, and zesty lemon cheesecake filling made from softened cream cheese, sugar, an egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This rich filling is then generously topped with fresh, plump blueberries, which burst with flavor when baked. Finally, the remaining cake mix mixture is crumbled over the blueberries to create that signature streusel topping, adding another layer of buttery, sweet goodness. A final drizzle of tangy lemon glaze over the warm bars brings everything together, creating a dessert so exquisitely balanced, it truly tastes like it was heaven-sent. If you’re a devoted fan of the lemon and blueberry combination, you absolutely must try these bars. You’ll also love exploring other lemon-blueberry delights like my Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls, refreshing Lemon Blueberry Trifle, and the irresistible Lemon Blueberry Pull-Apart Bread!

A Decade of Delight: My Favorite Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars

These lemon blueberry crumb bars hold a special place in my heart, a recipe I first crafted way back in 2011. I baked them for one of my dearest, lifelong friends to celebrate her birthday. Back then, we were celebrating 30 years of friendship, and now, another decade has effortlessly sailed by, deepening our bond even further. It’s funny how, as we grow older, the joy of adding another year sometimes shifts. We no longer count in “half years” like excited children, eagerly anticipating every passing moment. Instead, the focus often moves from the number itself to the richness of the experiences and the cherished memories made.

I’ve decided to embrace this shift. From now on, instead of simply counting another year older, I choose to count it as another year filled with great birthdays, wonderful friendships, and delicious treats like these crumb bars that bring so much joy. These bars aren’t just a dessert; they’re a testament to enduring connections and the simple pleasures that make life sweet.

Here are a few nostalgic photos of my friend, Sheri, and me from the 1980s and early 1990s. We’ve certainly shared a lifetime of moments! We navigated the complexities of crushes and boys, indulged in countless sleepovers, made mischievous prank phone calls to “teen lines,” experimented with makeup, dreamed of cars, cruised on Friday nights, endured late-night phone calls, attended memorable concerts, and, yes, did I mention *boys*? Our journey together has encompassed weddings, the births of our children, the expansion of our families, and the heartbreaking loss of loved ones. Four decades of friendship have woven a rich tapestry of memories, each one as vibrant and comforting as these lemon blueberry crumb bars.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars

Crafting these delectable lemon blueberry crumble bars requires a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving their irresistible flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Butter: Whether you opt for salted or unsalted, butter is essential for creating the rich, tender crumb of both the crust and the topping. It provides that classic buttery taste that makes these bars so comforting.
• Yellow Cake Mix: This is our secret weapon! A standard yellow cake mix not only simplifies the dry ingredients but also imparts a consistent, sweet, and buttery base, creating the perfect streusel-like texture for both the bottom crust and the crumbly topping.
• Eggs: Large eggs are used, divided between the crust mixture and the creamy cheesecake filling. They act as a binder, helping to hold everything together and contributing to the overall richness.
• Lemons: Fresh, ripe lemons are an absolute must for their vibrant zest and juice. The zest provides intense aromatic lemon flavor, while the juice adds a bright, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the bars. Don’t skimp on fresh lemons for the best results!
• Cream Cheese: For that signature rich, velvety cheesecake filling, full-fat cream cheese is highly recommended. Its creaminess and slight tang are integral to the luxurious texture and flavor. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the cheesecake filling and provides balance to the tart lemon and blueberries.
• Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are ideal for their plumpness and juicy bursts of flavor, but frozen blueberries can be used in a pinch. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply add them straight from the freezer.
• Powdered Sugar: The foundation of our delightful lemon glaze. When combined with fresh lemon juice, it creates a smooth, pourable icing that adds the perfect final touch of sweetness and tang.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars

Making these lemon blueberry crumble bars is a fun and rewarding experience. The process is straightforward, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve spectacular results. You will find complete measurements and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post, but let’s walk through the key steps here.

1. Prepare Your Pan and Crumb Mixture: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. This thoughtful step creates “handles” that will make lifting the baked and cooled bars out of the pan incredibly easy. In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter, either in the microwave or on the stovetop. To this melted butter, add the yellow cake mix, one of the eggs, and two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Beat these ingredients with a mixer until they are thoroughly blended and form a thick, crumbly dough. This mixture will serve as both your crust and your topping.



2. Form the Crust: Take approximately two-thirds of the prepared cake mix mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your foil-lined pan. Ensure it forms a compact, uniform layer. This will be the delicious, buttery foundation for your bars.



3. Craft the Cheesecake Filling and Add Blueberries: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, incorporate the remaining egg, two teaspoons of fragrant lemon zest, and two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Beat until everything is well combined and the filling is light and airy. Carefully spread this luscious lemon cheesecake filling over the pressed crust in the pan, creating a smooth layer. Scatter the fresh blueberries generously over the cheesecake filling, ensuring they are evenly distributed for a burst of fruit in every bite.
4. Add the Crumb Topping: With the remaining one-third of the cake mix mixture, pinch off small pieces and sprinkle them evenly over the blueberries and cheesecake layer. This will bake into a beautiful, golden-brown crumb topping that adds texture and flavor.
5. Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center of the cheesecake filling is almost set and the crumb topping is lightly golden. A slight jiggle in the center is acceptable, as it will firm up further upon cooling.



6. Prepare the Lemon Glaze: While the bars are still warm from the oven, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and the remaining lemon juice until it reaches a smooth, drizzly consistency. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more lemon juice; if too thin, add a touch more powdered sugar.



7. Glaze and Chill: Drizzle the prepared lemon glaze evenly over the warm bars. The warmth will allow the glaze to melt slightly and coat the topping beautifully. Let the bars cool at room temperature for a bit, then transfer them to the refrigerator to cool completely, which typically takes about an hour. Chilling is crucial for the cheesecake layer to firm up and for easier cutting.



8. Slice and Serve: Once thoroughly chilled, 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 bars of your desired size. Now, all that’s left to do is enjoy these delightful treats!



Love Them? Pin Them!

Don’t let this amazing recipe slip away! If you’re as smitten with these delicious Lemon Blueberry Crumb Bars as I am, be sure to Pin them to your favorite Pinterest dessert board before you leave. Share the lemon-blueberry love with your friends and followers!

Do You Serve Crumb Bars Warm or Cold?

The beauty of these blueberry crumb bars lies in their versatility when it comes to serving temperature. Personally, I find them absolutely divine when they are just warm enough that the flavors are vibrant, but not so hot that the delicate lemon glaze melts completely away. When slightly warmed, the lemon cheesecake filling’s citrus notes become even more pronounced, creating a truly sensory experience. However, they are equally delicious served cool or lightly chilled straight from the refrigerator, offering a refreshing treat, especially on a warm day.

To achieve that perfect “just warm” temperature, you can place a bar in a toaster oven at about 200 degrees Fahrenheit (95°C) for a few minutes, or microwave it for a short burst (around 10-15 seconds) until it’s gently heated through. Just be careful not to overheat and cook the blueberries further or liquefy the cheesecake. Whether you prefer them cool and firm or slightly warmed and gooey, these bars are a delight either way!





How to Store Lemon Crumble Bars

Proper storage is key to keeping your lemon blueberry crumb bars fresh and delicious. Any leftover bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh for approximately 4 to 5 days. However, based on their irresistible nature, I seriously doubt they’ll last that long in your fridge!

To prevent them from absorbing any unwanted odors from other foods in the refrigerator, make sure the container is sealed tightly. You can also place parchment paper between layers if stacking the bars to prevent sticking.

Freezer Instructions

One of the fantastic qualities of these lemon blueberry cheesecake bars is how beautifully they freeze. The baked cream cheese layer contributes to a stable, cheesecake-like texture that holds up wonderfully in the freezer, making them perfect for meal prep or enjoying a treat whenever a craving strikes.

• Cool Completely: Before freezing, it is absolutely essential that the bars are completely cooled. Warm bars will create condensation and lead to ice crystals, affecting the texture.
• Skip the Glaze (Initially): For best results, I recommend holding off on applying the lemon glaze until after the bars have been thawed. This prevents the glaze from becoming sticky or watery during the freezing and thawing process.
• Cut and Flash-Freeze: Once cooled, cut the bars into individual servings. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flash-freeze for about an hour, or until solid. This step prevents the bars from sticking together when stored.
• Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the flash-frozen bars to an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. If stacking, place small pieces of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from freezing together.
• Thawing and Glazing: When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the bars overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can prepare the fresh lemon glaze as per the recipe and drizzle it over the bars just before serving.

Stored correctly, these delicious bars will maintain their quality for up to 3 months in the freezer, tasting just as fresh and delightful once thawed.

What to Serve with Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

These versatile lemon blueberry cheesecake bars are a delightful addition to almost any occasion, effortlessly transitioning from a casual snack to an elegant dessert. They make a perfect companion to your morning coffee or afternoon tea, adding a touch of sweetness and zest to your warm beverage. For a brunch spread, these bars are a fantastic stand-alone treat, or they can complement heartier dishes like breakfast casseroles, fluffy scrambled eggs, or crispy bacon. Imagine them alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced offering!

Beyond breakfast and brunch, they are a superb choice for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings, as they are easy to transport and serve. For a more indulgent dessert, you could pair them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream, allowing the cool creaminess to contrast beautifully with the zesty, fruity bars. Their bright flavors also make them a refreshing end to any meal, particularly after a rich dinner, cutting through with their lemon tang. No matter the occasion, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Important Notes on Serving Lemon Crumble Bars

To ensure your lemon blueberry crumb bars are absolutely perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Glaze Application Timing: It’s crucial to let the crumble bars cool in the pan sufficiently before drizzling the glaze over the top. The bars should still be warm enough to allow the glaze to melt slightly and spread smoothly, creating a beautiful sheen. However, if they are too hot, the glaze will simply melt right through the topping and disappear, making it less effective. A good rule of thumb is that if you can comfortably touch the pan without burning your finger, it’s generally an appropriate temperature for glazing.
• Chilling for Clean Cuts: Patience is a virtue when it comes to cutting these bars! Always chill the bars completely in the refrigerator before attempting to remove them from the pan and slice them into individual servings. This firming-up period ensures that the cheesecake layer sets properly, resulting in clean, precise cuts and preventing the bars from crumbling apart.
• Cream Cheese Choice: While you can technically substitute non-fat or low-fat cream cheese, for the ultimate creamy texture and rich flavor of the cheesecake filling, full-fat cream cheese is highly recommended. It yields a more luxurious and satisfying result that truly elevates these bars.

More Tasty Bar Recipes to Check Out

If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of dessert bars, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of bar recipes waiting to be explored. Here are some other fantastic bar recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and become new favorites:

• Strawberry Sour Cream Crumb Bars
• Sugar Cookie Bars
• 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
• Rhubarb Crumble Bars (pictured above)
• Salted Nut Roll Bars
• Dutch Letter Bars
• Fresh Orange Bars



Wednesday #LemonWeek Recipes

As part of #LemonWeek 2022, here are some other incredible lemon-themed recipes from my fellow bloggers. Dive into a world of citrusy delights!

• • 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
  • 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



These bars are truly a celebration of flavor – intensely lemony goodness perfectly balanced with the sweet-tart bursts of blueberries. Blueberries, by the way, are not just delicious; they’re packed with natural antioxidants, making this treat not only delightful but also a little bit virtuous! Once you make them, you’ll find yourself wanting to whip up a batch over and over again. They’re that good!



So let’s savor every moment, preserve our youth with good food and great company, and celebrate more birthdays with delicious treats like these!

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