Introduction
Blueberry Almond Dream Bars are the epitome of delightful indulgence. Imagine a buttery almond crust topped with a luscious layer of blueberry filling, finished with a crumbly almond topping. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to holiday gatherings, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
My journey with these dream bars began during a summer vacation at my grandmother’s house. She had an expansive garden, and blueberries were in abundance. One sunny afternoon, she introduced me to this magical recipe. The mix of fresh blueberries and crunchy almonds produced a flavor that was both nostalgic and invigorating. Since then, these bars have become a staple in my baking repertoire, bringing back sweet memories with every bite.
What makes Blueberry Almond Dream Bars so special is their balance of textures and flavors. The buttery almond base provides a firm foundation, while the blueberry filling offers a juicy, sweet contrast. The crumbly almond topping adds a satisfying crunch, making these bars a perfect treat for any time of day.
Enjoyment Suggestions
Pairing Ideas
Enhance your Blueberry Almond Dream Bars experience with these pairing suggestions:
- Tea: A cup of chamomile or Earl Grey tea balances the bars’ nutty and sweet aromas.
- Coffee: Enjoy these bars with a latte or cappuccino for a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A dollop of vanilla ice cream and a warm bar combine for a delectable treat.
Serving Occasions
These versatile bars are ideal for various events:
- Brunch Gatherings: Serve them at a brunch buffet for a sweet addition that guests will love.
- Holiday Celebrations: Their festive look and delicious taste make them perfect for Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving.
- Picnics and Potlucks: Easy to transport and share, these bars are great for outdoor events and family get-togethers.
Complementary Dishes
Create a well-rounded dessert spread by pairing these bars with:
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a light, refreshing contrast to the rich bars.
- Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses, crackers, and nuts for a sophisticated touch.
- Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait layered with granola and fresh berries is an excellent compliment to the snacks.
FAQs
1. Can I make Blueberry Almond Dream Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these bars a day or two in advance. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
2. Can I substitute frozen blueberries for fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
3. How should I store leftover bars?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
4. Can I freeze the bars?
Yes, these bars can be frozen effectively. First, wrap them individually with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. Place the wrapped bars into a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
5. What can I use as a substitute for almonds?
If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute almonds with pecans, walnuts, or even shredded coconut for a different twist.
Print
Blueberry Almond Dream Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus cooling time)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Blueberry Almond Dream Bars are a heavenly combination of a buttery almond crust, a creamy filling, and a vibrant blueberry topping. Perfect for dessert or a special treat, these bars are easy to make and packed with flavor. The crunchy almonds and sweet blueberries create a delightful contrast in every bite. Keywords: blueberry bars, almond dessert, easy dream bars, blueberry almond bars, dessert bars.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
For the Topping:
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour and sugar for the crust. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the sliced almonds.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until the blueberries are well coated.
- Spread the blueberry mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the blueberries are bubbly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, sprinkle with sliced almonds and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the almonds and use an oat-based crust instead.
- You can use frozen blueberries if fresh ones are not available. Thaw and drain them before using.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: blueberry bars, almond dessert, easy dream bars, blueberry almond bars, dessert bars
