Description
Delight in these Blueberry Pie Cookie Bars, a perfect combination of a buttery cookie crust, juicy blueberry filling, and a crumbly golden top. This dessert offers the classic flavors of blueberry pie in easy-to-handle bar form, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients
Cookie Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Blueberry Filling
- 3 cups fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Crust: Begin by creaming together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture, combining until a soft dough forms. Press two-thirds of this dough evenly into a greased baking pan to create a sturdy base layer for the bars.
- Create the Blueberry Filling: In a separate bowl, gently toss the fresh blueberries with brown sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. This mixture will thicken as it bakes and enhances the natural flavors of the berries.
- Assemble the Filling: Pour the blueberry mixture evenly over the pressed cookie crust, spreading carefully to avoid breaking the berries and ensuring even coverage.
- Add the Top Crust: Crumble the remaining one-third of the dough over the blueberry filling to create a crumbly, buttery topping that will bake into a crisp, golden layer.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the blueberry filling is bubbling enticingly.
- Cool the Bars: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan so the filling sets properly before slicing.
- Slice and Serve: Carefully cut the cooled dessert into 16 bars. Serve as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Notes
- Make sure to use fresh blueberries for the best flavor and texture; frozen berries may release too much liquid.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to prevent the filling from oozing.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Adding a pinch of cinnamon to the blueberry filling can enhance the flavor.