If you’re a fan of blueberries and crave a dessert that’s both fruity and buttery, Blueberry Pie Bars are here to steal the show! With a buttery shortbread crust, a luscious blueberry filling, and a crumbly topping, these bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress guests or just a treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee, these bars check all the boxes. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time!

SAVE THIS!

Why You’ll Love Blueberry Pie Bars

Blueberry Pie Bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a comforting treat that combines the best elements of a classic pie with the convenience of a handheld bar. Here’s why they’re so amazing:

• Bursting with Flavor: The blueberry filling is rich, fruity, and perfectly sweetened with a hint of lemon and vanilla.
• Buttery Perfection: The shortbread crust and crumbly topping melt in your mouth with every bite.
• Easy to Make: No need to fuss over pie crusts! These bars come together quickly with simple ingredients.
• Versatile: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast (we won’t judge!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create these heavenly Blueberry Pie Bars:

For the Crust & Topping:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Blueberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat & Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier after baking.

2️⃣ Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. Reserve about ¼ of this mixture for the topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.

3️⃣ Bake the Crust

Place the crust in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. This step ensures your crust stays firm and doesn’t become soggy when you add the blueberry filling.

4️⃣ Prepare the Blueberry Filling

While the crust is baking, prepare your filling. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently and cook until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

5️⃣ Assemble & Bake

Once the crust is ready, pour the blueberry filling evenly over it. Take the reserved crumbly dough and sprinkle it over the blueberry layer to create a delicious topping. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown.

6️⃣ Cool & Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares or rectangles. Serve them as-is or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Tips for Perfect Blueberry Pie Bar

1. Use Fresh or Frozen Blueberries: Both work beautifully in this recipe! If using frozen berries, no need to thaw them beforehand—just toss them straight into the saucepan.
2. Don’t Skip Pre-Baking the Crust: This step prevents a soggy bottom layer and ensures your bars hold together well.
3. Lemon Juice is Key: The slight tang from lemon juice enhances the flavor of the blueberries and adds brightness to the filling.
4. Let Them Cool Completely: It might be tempting to dig in right away, but letting them cool ensures clean slices and prevents them from falling apart.

FAQs About Blueberry Pie Bars

1. Can I use other fruits instead of blueberries?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works well with other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of berries. Adjust sugar levels depending on the sweetness of your chosen fruit.

2. How should I store Blueberry Pie Bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for an easy gluten-free version.

4. What’s the best way to serve these bars?

Blueberry Pie Bars are delicious on their own but can be elevated with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair them with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat!

Final Thoughts

Blueberry Pie Bars are everything you could want in a dessert—easy to make, bursting with fruity goodness, and topped with buttery crumbs that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, potluck, or simply treating yourself, these bars are sure to be a hit.

So what are you waiting for? Grab some blueberries and get baking! Your taste buds will thank you. 🫐✨