No Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
Contents
Looking for a delicious and easy dessert that doesn’t require turning on the oven? These No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars are perfect for you! With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a vibrant blueberry topping, these bars offer a delightful balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or craving a cool treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with simple ingredient substitutions, you can easily adapt it to suit dietary preferences. Enjoy making and savoring this refreshing dessert!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (I use graham cracker crumbs for a classic cheesecake crust flavor. You can substitute with gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option.)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (I use unsalted butter for baking because it allows better control over the salt content. Different brands have varying salt levels, which can affect the recipe.)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the crust. You can use brown sugar for a richer, caramel-like flavor.)
For The FillingFor the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened (Softening the cream cheese ensures a smooth and creamy filling. Neufchâtel cheese is a great lower-fat alternative.)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (Powdered sugar dissolves easily and helps achieve a smooth texture in the cheesecake filling. Make sure to sift it to avoid lumps.)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling. For a twist, you can use almond extract instead.)
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped (Whipped heavy cream adds lightness to the filling. For a dairy-free option, use whipped coconut cream.)
For the Topping
- 2 cups fresh blueberries (Packed with antioxidants and vitamins that support overall health)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (Honey or agave syrup can be used as natural sweeteners)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (Arrowroot powder is a good alternative)
- 1/4 cup water (Freshly squeezed orange juice can add extra flavor)1 tsp lemon juice (Enhances the tartness of the blueberries and is high in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system))
No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Bars Substitutions
For the Crust:
Graham Cracker Crumbs:
Substitute with gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option.
Use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a different flavor.
Unsalted Butter:
Substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.
Granulated Sugar:
Substitute with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia for a lower glycemic index.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
Cream Cheese:
Substitute with Neufchâtel cheese for a lower-fat option.
Use dairy-free cream cheese as a vegan alternative.
Powdered Sugar:
Substitute with an equal amount of granulated sugar, but blend it into a fine powder first.
Use a sugar substitute like powdered erythritol for a low-calorie option.
Vanilla Extract:
Substitute with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
Use a vanilla bean, scraping out the seeds, for a more intense vanilla flavor.
Heavy Cream:
Substitute with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter texture.
For the Blueberry Topping:
Fresh Blueberries:
Substitute with frozen blueberries (thawed and drained) if fresh are not available.
Use other berries like raspberries or strawberries for a different topping.
Granulated Sugar:
Substitute with honey or agave syrup as natural sweeteners.
Use maple syrup for a unique flavor twist.
Cornstarch:
Substitute with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a thickening agent.
Use all-purpose flour, though it may slightly change the texture.
Water:
Substitute with freshly squeezed orange juice for added citrus flavor.
Use a berry juice to complement the blueberry flavor.
Lemon Juice:
Substitute with lime juice for a different citrus note.
Use apple cider vinegar in a pinch, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
No-Bake Blueberries Cheescake Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream whipped
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. (Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter and sugar)
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan. (Use the back of a spoon or a measuring cup to pack it down tightly)
- Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. (An electric mixer works best for this step)
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined. (Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing)
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. (Be careful not to overmix to maintain the light texture)
- Spread the filling evenly over the prepared crust. (Use a spatula to smooth the top)
- In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. (Stir to dissolve the cornstarch and sugar)
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the blueberries start to burst. (This should take about 5-7 minutes)
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. (The topping will continue to thicken as it cools)
- Once cooled, spread the blueberry topping evenly over the cheesecake layer. (Ensure an even distribution for consistent flavor in every bite)
- Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 2-4 hours, or until fully set. (Overnight chilling yields the best results)
- Cut into squares and serve. (For clean slices, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts)
- Enjoy these delightful, no-bake blueberry cheesecake bars as a refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion!
Notes
Serving Size: 1 bar (based on 12 servings) Calories: 310. Total Fat: 21g. Saturated Fat: 12g. Trans Fat: 0g. Total Carbohydrates: 28g. Dietary Fiber: 1g..Protein: 4g. Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
