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
Scale
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