Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

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Blueberry Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 graham crackers)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 ounces (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

For the Blueberry Swirl:

  • 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  • Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Crust:

  • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer.
  • Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

3. Prepare the Blueberry Swirl:

  • In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and let the blueberry mixture cool slightly.

4. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

  • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the sugar and beat until well combined.
  • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until the mixture is smooth and no lumps remain.

5. Assemble the Cheesecake Bars:

  • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer.
  • Drop spoonfuls of the blueberry mixture over the cheesecake filling.
  • Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the blueberry mixture into the cheesecake, creating a marbled effect.

6. Bake:

  • Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
  • Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to fully set.

7. Serve:

  • Once the cheesecake bars are fully chilled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut them into squares.
  • Serve and enjoy your delicious blueberry cheesecake bars!

These creamy and tangy blueberry cheesecake bars are a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy