Indulge in the delightful flavors of these no-bake blueberry squares, a perfect treat for any occasion. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese, and a topping of fresh or frozen blueberries, this dessert is both simple to make and irresistibly delicious. Ideal for those hot days when you want a sweet treat without turning on the oven.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, but you might need to pick up a few items if you don't already have them. Graham cracker crumbs can be found in the baking aisle, and cream cheese is usually located in the dairy section. Fresh or frozen blueberries can be found in the produce or frozen foods section. Make sure to get vanilla extract from the baking aisle if you don't have it at home.
Ingredients For No-Bake Blueberry Squares
Graham cracker crumbs: These are finely crushed graham crackers used to create a sweet and crunchy base for the dessert.
Melted butter: This helps bind the graham cracker crumbs together to form the crust.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese is used to create a rich and creamy layer.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cream cheese layer.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese mixture.
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries are used to top the dessert, adding a burst of fruity flavor.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When pressing the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter mixture into the pan, use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to ensure an even and compact crust. This will help the no-bake blueberry squares hold together better when sliced.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with digestive biscuit crumbs: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and flavor profile to graham crackers.
graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with crushed pretzels: Crushed pretzels add a salty twist and a crunchy texture.
melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar binding effect and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
melted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct replacement for butter in most recipes.
softened cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a healthier alternative.
softened cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone cheese is rich and creamy, similar to cream cheese but with a milder flavor.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides natural sweetness and adds a unique flavor.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a distinct sweetness and can be used in place of sugar.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract gives a different but pleasant flavor profile.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract can provide a sweet, rich flavor similar to vanilla.
fresh or frozen blueberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries offer a tart flavor and similar texture.
fresh or frozen blueberries - Substitute with blackberries: Blackberries provide a slightly different but equally delicious berry flavor.
Other Alternative Recipes
How to Store or Freeze These Squares
To keep your no-bake blueberry squares fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container. This prevents them from absorbing any unwanted odors or flavors from the fridge.
Place a sheet of parchment paper between layers if you need to stack them. This will prevent the blueberries from sticking to the bottom of the squares above.
Store the container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese filling needs to stay chilled to maintain its texture and flavor.
For optimal freshness, consume within 3-4 days. The graham cracker crust may start to soften after this period.
To freeze, first ensure the squares are well-chilled in the refrigerator. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap. This provides an extra layer of protection against freezer burn.
Place the wrapped squares in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This step prevents them from sticking together.
Once frozen, transfer the squares to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.
For best quality, consume within 1-2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. The blueberries and cream cheese filling will return to their creamy, delightful state.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- For the best results, enjoy your No-Bake Blueberry Squares straight from the refrigerator. However, if you prefer them slightly warmer, follow these methods:
- Room Temperature Method: Remove the blueberry squares from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will take the chill off without compromising the texture.
- Microwave Method: Place a single serving of the blueberry squares on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on low power (about 30% power) for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as the cream cheese layer can become too soft.
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place the blueberry squares in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Warm them in the oven for about 5-10 minutes. This method is gentle and helps maintain the integrity of the graham cracker crust.
- Warm Water Bath Method: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Place the container with the blueberry squares (make sure it's sealed) into the warm water for a few minutes. This method gently warms the dessert without direct heat, preserving its texture.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, as well as to beat the cream cheese mixture.
Spatula: Helpful for spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and blueberries.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the vanilla extract.
8x8 inch pan: The base where you will press the graham cracker crust and layer the cream cheese mixture and blueberries.
Electric mixer: Ideal for beating the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Refrigerator: Required to chill the blueberry squares for at least 2 hours before serving.
Knife: Useful for cutting the no-bake blueberry squares into portions before serving.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prepare the crust ahead: Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in advance and store in the fridge. This way, you can quickly press it into the pan when ready.
Use a food processor: Blend cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together for a smoother mixture in less time.
Opt for frozen blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, there's no need to wash or prep them, saving you a few extra minutes.
Chill overnight: Prepare the blueberry squares the night before and let them chill overnight for a firmer set and less waiting time.
No-Bake Blueberry Squares Recipe
Ingredients
Base
- 2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
- ½ cup Melted Butter
Filling
- 8 oz Cream Cheese softened
- ½ cup Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 cups Blueberries fresh or frozen
Instructions
- 1. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of an 8x8 inch pan to form the crust.
- 2. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread this mixture over the crust.
- 3. Top with blueberries. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses
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