Imagine a dessert that combines the creamy decadence of cheesecake with the vibrant flavors of blueberries and the subtle earthiness of green tea. These Blueberry Green Tea Cheesecake Bars are not just a treat; they're a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds to a realm of pure culinary bliss. Perfect for impressing guests, satisfying your sweet tooth, or simply treating yourself to a gourmet dessert experience that breaks all the traditional cheesecake rules!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup blueberry puree
- 1 tablespoon green tea powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a compact crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar together using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure complete incorporation.
- Gently fold in blueberry puree and green tea powder, stirring until the mixture is evenly colored and well combined.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 2-3 hours or overnight to allow them to set completely.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the cheesecake out of the pan and cut into 12 even bars.
- Serve chilled and optionally garnish with fresh blueberries or a light dusting of green tea powder.
Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
- Use high-quality green tea powder (matcha) for the most intense and authentic flavor.
- When pressing the graham cracker crust, use the back of a measuring cup to create a compact, even base.
- Don't overmix the batter after adding eggs to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracking.
- For clean, precise cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each slice.
- Refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to meld and the texture to become perfectly set.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg