Lemon Blueberry Delight is a refreshing treat combining zesty lemon and sweet blueberries. It’s light, fruity, and perfect for any occasion!
With its bright colors and tasty flavors, it feels like sunshine on a plate. I love serving this with a dollop of whipped cream—it makes everything better! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This forms the crust base. If you want a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers. I love using honey-flavored graham crackers for extra sweetness!
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries bring vibrant flavor, but frozen blueberries work too. Just thaw them before cooking. You can use other berries, like blackberries or raspberries, if you want a mix.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creaminess. Greek yogurt can substitute it for a lighter option, but keep in mind this will change the flavor and texture a bit.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is important for a light, fluffy texture. If you need a lower-fat alternative, you can use a can of full-fat coconut milk. Just chill it first and use the solid part.
How Do You Get the Perfect Cream Layer?
Getting that creamy layer just right can be tricky. Here’s how to make it easy:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature; this helps avoid lumps.
- Whip the heavy cream until it forms soft peaks—it should hold its shape but still be fluffy.
- Use a gentle folding technique to combine the whipped cream with the cream cheese mixture. This keeps the fluffiness intact.
These steps are key to achieving that delightful lightness in every bite! Enjoy!
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Delight?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup sugar
For The Blueberry Layer:
- 2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For The Cream Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
For Garnish:
- Extra blueberries
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. So, total time from start to yummy finish is just about 4 hours and 20 minutes. Perfect for making ahead and having something sweet ready to enjoy later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir well until it’s all mixed together. Now, press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch baking pan to form a nice crust. Bake it in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until it turns lightly golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Blueberry Layer:
While your crust cools, let’s make the blueberry layer! In a saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts to simmer and the blueberries begin to release their juices, which should take about 5-7 minutes. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Add this back into your simmering blueberry mixture and stir until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool.
3. Make the Cream Layer:
Now, let’s whip up that cream layer! In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is nice and smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until you get soft peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into your cream cheese mixture along with the lemon zest and vanilla extract. Keep folding until everything is combined and fluffy.
4. Assemble the Dessert:
Time to put it all together! Spread the creamy layer evenly over your cooled crust. Then, carefully spoon the cooled blueberry mixture over the top, spreading it out evenly. Now your dessert is really starting to look delicious!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover your dish and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until it’s well set. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with extra fresh blueberries and lemon slices. Cut into squares and enjoy this delightful dessert with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen blueberries before using them. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for a quicker option. Drain any excess liquid before adding them to the saucepan, as this will help maintain the right consistency for the blueberry layer.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter or vegan option. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may slightly differ. If using Greek yogurt, use a thicker style for the best results, and you may want to adjust the sugar based on your taste preferences.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great make-ahead dessert, just be sure to keep the layers intact for the freshest taste when you serve!
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This dessert can be made up to a day in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours to set properly before serving. The flavors will actually meld more nicely if you let it sit for a little longer!
