Lemon Blueberry Bars Recipe

There’s something truly magical about the perfect balance of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries nestled in a tender, buttery bar, which is why this Lemon Blueberry Bars Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites to share at gatherings or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea. The bright citrus notes combined with bursts of fresh blueberries create a flavor experience that’s both refreshing and comforting, making each bite simply unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe combines simple, trustworthy ingredients that work together harmoniously to deliver a bar with just the right texture, sweetness, and zing. Each ingredient brings its own unique flair—from the richness of butter to the fresh punch of lemon juice and blueberries.

• 2 large eggs: Whisked to fluffy perfection to give the bars a light, airy structure.
• 1½ cups granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness while helping with the browning.
• 1 cup salted butter, melted: Provides richness and moistness, essential for that tender crumb.
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice: The star citrus that adds bright, refreshing acidity.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Aromatic oils in the zest elevate the lemon flavor to the next level.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Balances the tartness with subtle sweetness and depth.
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract (or 3 to 4 drops lemon oil): Intensifies the lemon flavor, making it even more vibrant.
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base to hold everything together, creating that perfect bar texture.
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder: Gives the bars a gentle rise for a soft, tender bite.
• 1½ cups fresh blueberries: Bursting with juicy sweetness and color throughout the bars.
• ½ cup blueberries (for glaze): Used to make a luscious glaze that crowns the bars with extra fruitiness.
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for glaze): Sweetens the blueberry glaze beautifully.
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Helps create a smooth, creamy texture for the glaze.
• 1 to 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (for glaze): Adjusts glaze consistency, making it perfectly spreadable.

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by heating the oven to 350°F and lining a 9×13 glass baking dish with parchment paper. This step is key for easy removal and clean edges when cutting your bars later.

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs Until Frothy

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, whisk the eggs on high until they become very frothy. This aeration is what will give your bars a light, tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Continue Whisking

Gradually pour in 1½ cups of granulated sugar and keep whisking until the mixture turns thick and foam-like. This step helps create a smooth base for the buttery lemon batter.

Step 4: Incorporate Butter, Lemon Juice, Zest, and Extracts

Now, add the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon oil or extract to your egg-sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed until everything is combined into a gorgeous, fragrant batter.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Keeping the dry ingredients separate ensures an even distribution when combined with the wet.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and gently mix just until everything comes together. Overmixing here can lead to tough bars, so a light hand is best.

Step 7: Fold in the Fresh Blueberries

Carefully fold in 1½ cups of fresh blueberries to avoid breaking them up while ensuring they’re evenly dispersed through the batter, providing juicy bursts in every bite.

Step 8: Spread Batter and Bake

Pour and spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The bars should turn a lovely golden shade on top.

Step 9: Prepare the Blueberry Glaze

While the bars bake, combine ½ cup blueberries and ½ cup granulated sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water if needed and stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture forms a vibrant, syrupy glaze.

Step 10: Strain and Mix the Glaze

Pour the syrup through a sieve into a bowl with ½ cup powdered sugar. Whisk until smooth, adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk until you reach a spreadable consistency perfect for glazing.

Step 11: Glaze the Warm Bars

Spread the blueberry glaze evenly over the warm bars. Allow them to cool fully before slicing into squares—this lets the glaze set tender and delicious.

Step 12: Cut and Serve

Once cooled, cut the bars into 12 squares and serve. Prepare for compliments because these bars really shine.

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Bars Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra fresh blueberries or a little lemon zest on top for a garnish that looks as stunning as it tastes, adding freshness and a pop of color to each serving.

Side Dishes

Lemon Blueberry Bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement their citrus brightness and add creamy indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these bars on a beautiful wooden board or a bright summer-themed platter for a charming presentation. For a festive twist, add edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving at brunch or tea parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover bars keep beautifully in an airtight container stored at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to a week. This makes them an ideal treat to have on hand for unexpected guests or midweek snacks.

Freezing

You can freeze these bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before eating to enjoy the fresh lemon-blueberry goodness anytime.

Reheating

If you like your bars warm, gently reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10 seconds. The glaze will soften, and the bars will taste just like freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries in this Lemon Blueberry Bars Recipe?

Frozen blueberries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before folding into the batter to avoid adding excess moisture that could affect the texture.

What if I don’t have lemon extract or lemon oil?

If you don’t have lemon extract, you can simply increase the amount of fresh lemon zest for added flavor, though the extract or oil does help intensify the lemon aroma significantly.

Can I make these bars vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs or another egg replacer, use plant-based butter, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. Adjust baking time as needed.

What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut to ensure neat, beautiful squares without crumbs or glaze smudging the edges.

Are these bars suitable for meal prepping desserts?

Absolutely! Lemon Blueberry Bars Recipe works great for meal prep since they store well and maintain their flavor and texture, making them a perfect sweet treat for the week ahead.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to brighten up your dessert offerings with something fruity, delightful, and just the right amount of sweet and tangy, give this Lemon Blueberry Bars Recipe a try. It’s straightforward to make but impressively delicious—the kind of recipe you’ll be excited to share again and again with family and friends!

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