DESSERT

Blueberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars the Best 1

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If you’re a fan of cheesecake but want something easier and quicker, Blueberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars are the perfect solution. They combine a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety vanilla cheesecake layer, and a homemade blueberry swirl sauce for a decadent yet simple dessert.

For those who love nostalgic treats, you may also enjoy Coffee Cake Since College, another delicious baked good that pairs wonderfully with coffee.

If you’re new to cheesecake baking, Serious Eats’ cheesecake baking guide offers expert advice on achieving the perfect texture. Also, if you’re wondering how to store cheesecake properly, check out The Spruce Eats guide.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Bars

A close-up of a Blueberry Swirl Cheesecake Bar with a bite taken out, showing layers of buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, and vibrant blueberry swirls.
Tangy, creamy, and perfectly sweet—these cheesecake bars are a must-try!
  • 🫐 Bursting with Blueberry Flavor – The homemade blueberry swirl is sweet and tangy.
  • 🥄 Creamy & Velvety Texture – The cheesecake filling is smooth and rich.
  • 🍪 Crispy & Buttery Crust – The graham cracker base provides the perfect crunch.
  • ⏳ No Water Bath Required – A hassle-free alternative to traditional cheesecake.
  • ❄️ Great for Make-Ahead Desserts – Perfect for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients for Blueberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars

A top-down view of ingredients for Blueberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars, including graham crackers, cream cheese, blueberries, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Everything you need to make Blueberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars—simple, fresh, and delicious!

 

Ingredient Quantity
Graham Cracker Crust:
Graham cracker crumbs 1 ½ cups
Unsalted butter (melted) 6 tbsp
Granulated sugar 2 tbsp
Cheesecake Filling:
Cream cheese (softened) 16 oz (2 blocks)
Granulated sugar ½ cup
Large eggs 2
Vanilla extract 1 ½ tsp
All-purpose flour 3 tbsp
Blueberry Swirl Sauce:
Fresh or frozen blueberries 2 cups
Granulated sugar ¼ cup
Cornstarch 2 tsp
Lemon juice 1 tbsp
Vanilla extract 1 tsp

Substitutions:

  • Gluten-Free Alternative: Swap graham cracker crumbs for almond flour.
  • Vegan Option: Use cashew cream cheese and flax eggs.
  • Crust Variations: Try The Best Crumb Cake Muffins for a crumbly texture twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

A saucepan filled with blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice simmering into a thick, rich blueberry sauce.
A sweet and tangy blueberry sauce made with fresh ingredients for the perfect swirl

1️⃣ Make the Blueberry Swirl Sauce (10 minutes)

  1. Mix blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  4. Let it cool completely before swirling into the cheesecake filling.

2️⃣ Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust (10 minutes)

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Stir together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well blended.
  3. Press the mixture into a lined 8-inch baking pan.
  4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.

3️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling (10 minutes)

  1. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and flour. Mix until just combined (avoid overmixing).

4️⃣ Assemble & Bake (40-50 minutes)

  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
  2. Spoon dollops of blueberry sauce over the top.
  3. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the sauce into the filling.
  4. Bake for 45-50 minutes, ensuring the centre remains slightly wobbly.

Expert Tips for the Best Cheesecake Bars

A mixing bowl with cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla being whisked into a creamy cheesecake filling.
Smooth, creamy, and perfectly sweet—this cheesecake filling is irresistible!

✔️ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Cold ingredients lead to a lumpy batter.
✔️ Avoid Overmixing – Too much air in the batter can cause cracks.
✔️ Let It Chill Completely – This helps the bars set properly.
✔️ Use a Hot Knife for Clean Slices – Wipe the knife between cuts.

Storage & Freezing Guide

📦 Storing:

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Room temperature: Can be left out for up to 2 hours.

❄️ Freezing:

  • For optimal storage, wrap each bar separately in plastic wrap and keep them in a freezer-safe bag.
  • Lasts up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

🍋 Toppings: Whipped cream, lemon zest, fresh blueberries.
☕ Drink Pairings: Coffee, chai tea, dessert wine.

Looking for another fruit-based dessert? Check out French Breakfast Puffs for a sweet and airy treat.

FAQs About Blueberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars

💡 Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes! But expect a slightly thinner sauce.

💡 Do I need a water bath?
No, these bars don’t require one!

💡 How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Avoid overbaking and let it cool gradually.

💡 Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! They taste even better after chilling overnight.

Blueberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars are a delicious blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet. If you love cheesecake but want something simpler and faster, this is the perfect recipe.

If you enjoy desserts with a rich chocolatey twist, check out Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake for a decadent alternative.

What’s your favourite cheesecake variation? Let me know in the comments! 🍰🫐

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