If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe is just what you need. These bars combine a buttery, oat-filled crust with a luscious cream cheese filling and bursts of fresh blueberries, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Whether it’s for a casual afternoon treat or an impressive dish to share with friends, these bars bring joy and comfort together in one delicious package.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls and small dishes arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding different baking ingredients. At the top left, there is a bowl filled with light beige rolled oats, next to it on the right is a bowl with white flour. Below these, a larger white bowl contains dark blue blueberries, and beside it is a can of sweetened condensed milk with a blue and red label. Near the bottom left, a small white dish holds a single bright yellow egg yolk, while a square white bowl next to it is filled with brown sugar. To the right, there are two sticks of salted cream butter wrapped in orange paper, and above them is a blue package of cream cheese. A small white dish with white baking powder and another square white bowl filled with granulated white sugar are also included in the arrangement. The composition is neat and clear, showing the ingredients for a baking recipe photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the texture and flavor of this recipe. Each component, from the creamy cheese to the fresh blueberries, plays a vital role in giving you that dreamy combination of crumbly yet smooth with fruity notes.

3/4 cup butter (softened): Provides a rich base and helps bind the oat crust for that perfect crumbly texture.
2/3 cup sugar: Adds sweetness with a clean, crisp finish to balance the tangy cream cheese.
2/3 cup brown sugar: Introduces a hint of molasses flavor and moisture, deepening the overall taste.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to lighten the oat crust slightly without overpowering it.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and cuts through the sweetness for balance.
1 1/3 cups flour: Provides structure to the crust and the oatmeal topping, ensuring it holds together beautifully.
1 1/3 cups quick oats (uncooked): Adds lovely chewiness and complexity to the bars, making every bite interesting.
8 ounces cream cheese: Creates the creamy, tangy filling that makes these bars truly stand out.
1 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk: Sweetens and smooths out the cream cheese filling, giving it irresistible richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla: Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the natural flavors of the cream cheese and blueberries.
1 egg yolk: Helps the filling set with a silky texture while keeping it moist.
1 cup blueberries (or raspberries): Fresh or frozen berries add bursts of fruity brightness that contrast beautifully with the creamy layer.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper or coating it with cooking spray. This ensures your bars won’t stick and come out cleanly, ready to impress.

Step 2: Mix and Bake the Crust

In a large bowl, blend the softened butter with both sugars until creamy and smooth. Then, add the baking soda, salt, flour, and quick oats, stirring just until everything is combined. Press half of this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Pop it into the oven and bake for 13 minutes to set your buttery, oat-filled crust. This step creates a sturdy yet tender base for your bars.

Step 3: Create the Cream Cheese Filling

While your crust is baking, whip up that luscious filling. Soften the cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth, then whisk in the sweetened condensed milk gradually to keep the mixture light and silky. Add in the vanilla extract and egg yolk, blending well to create a rich, creamy layer that will hold the fruit perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Once your crust is out of the oven, pour the cream cheese filling evenly over it, spreading gently with a spatula. Next, scatter the fresh blueberries across the cream cheese layer—these juicy bursts of flavor complement the sweetness beautifully. Finally, sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top and press down lightly to form a crumbly, golden topping.

Step 5: Final Bake

Slide your pan back into the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes until the edges turn a perfect golden brown. This finishing bake melts everything together and lets all those layers shine in harmony.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely to set the cream cheese filling firmly. Once cooled, cut into squares and store in the refrigerator for up to several days. This cooling step is essential for clean slices and perfect texture.

How to Serve Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

A close-up image shows a square metal baking tray filled with a creamy white batter layer that has a smooth and slightly shiny surface. Scattered evenly on top are whole fresh blueberries, dark blue in color and slightly glossy, partially sinking into the batter. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance, dust the bars lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle some melted white chocolate on top. Fresh mint leaves or a few whole blueberries can add a beautiful pop of color and freshness, making the dessert feel truly special.

Side Dishes

These bars pair wonderfully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy complement. A hot cup of coffee or a soothing cup of herbal tea also makes this treat feel like a cozy moment of indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by serving these bars on a rustic wooden platter alongside a small bowl of whipped cream mixed with lemon zest for an unexpected twist. You could also assemble mini dessert parfaits by layering crumbled bars, cream cheese filling, and fresh berries in clear glasses for a stunning presentation at your next get-together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days, perfect for sneaky snacks or sharing the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep these bars longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

While these bars are best served chilled, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds if preferred. This softens the cream cheese filling and brings out the aroma of the blueberries, making them feel freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for the Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid to prevent your bars from becoming too soggy.

What can I substitute for quick oats if I don’t have any?

You can use old-fashioned rolled oats, but expect a slightly chewier texture. If possible, pulse them a few times in a food processor to mimic quick oats.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

While the cream cheese filling is central to the bars’ flavor and texture, you can try dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives. The taste will be different but still delicious!

How do I ensure the cream cheese filling sets properly?

Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing, and don’t overbake the bars. Cooling completely in the fridge helps the filling firm up for clean cuts.

Can I swap blueberries for other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! Raspberries, blackberries, or even chopped strawberries make lovely substitutes. Just choose fruits that won’t release too much juice to keep the crust intact.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe is truly a keeper that never fails to delight. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it irresistible, and it’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just treating yourself, these bars are sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection. Give them a try—you deserve a little sweetness in your day!

Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need