Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Bars Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful treat that balances tangy brightness with sweet juiciness, look no further than these Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Bars. Bursting with fresh blueberries nestled in a zesty lemon filling atop a tender, crumbly crust, this recipe makes for a dessert that’s as gorgeous as it is scrumptious. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or just love a good citrus-berry combo, these bars are guaranteed to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Bars come together with a straightforward list of pantry staples and wholesome fresh ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the rich, buttery crust that’s gluten-free yet just as satisfying as traditional shortbread, to the vibrant lemon zest and juicy blueberries that create the perfect balance of flavors and colors.

• Granulated sugar: Provides the right amount of sweetness and helps in browning the crust.
• Lemon zest: Adds that unmistakable fresh citrus aroma and flavor that brightens the bars.
• Salted butter (regular or plant-based): Creates a rich, tender texture in the crust and ties all flavors together.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, comforting note.
• Gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend: Ensures a perfect, crumbly crust without any gluten.
• Fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and accentuates other flavors.
• Fresh blueberries: The star ingredient, juicy and bursting with antioxidants.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and a tart punch to the blueberry filling and glaze.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the blueberry filling so it’s not soggy.
• Powdered sugar: Essential for a smooth, delicate lemon glaze topping.

How to Make Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Set your oven to 350ºF. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with two pieces of parchment paper arranged crisscrossed—this simple trick makes lifting out your bars afterward a breeze and keeps them intact.

Step 2: Mix the Sugar and Lemon Zest

In a mixer bowl, whip together the granulated sugar and fresh lemon zest on high for 1 minute. This step’s key for releasing those fragrant citrus oils that make the bars incredibly aromatic.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Vanilla

Add in the softened butter and vanilla extract, continuing to beat on high speed for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This is the foundation of your crumbly, buttery crust.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Turn mixer to low speed and add your gluten-free flour blend along with the sea salt. Mix until the dough turns crumbly but holds together slightly when pressed. This texture will give your crust that perfect shortbread quality.

Step 5: Press the Base into the Pan

Reserve about one-third of the dough and press the remaining two-thirds firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. This forms your sturdy bottom crust that will hold all that luscious filling.

Step 6: Make the Blueberry Filling

In a bowl, gently toss fresh blueberries with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. The cornstarch thickens the juices during baking so your bars don’t get runny but stay perfectly moist.

Step 7: Add the Filling and Crumble the Topping

Spread the blueberry mixture evenly over the crust, making sure to drain any excess juices left in the bowl. Then crumble the reserved dough over the top; this creates a beautiful textured topping that bakes to a delicate golden brown.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake for about 60 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is bubbling gently. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage will be irresistible!

Step 9: Cool Completely

Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan—this helps them set so they slice cleanly and hold together beautifully.

Step 10: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth; this sweet-tart glaze is the perfect finishing touch for your bars.

Step 11: Glaze and Slice

Drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the cooled bars and cut into squares. Now you’re ready to enjoy a slice of sunshine and berry bliss!

How to Serve Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Bars

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest or a few whole blueberries on top adds a fresh, vibrant look and an extra burst of flavor. For an elegant touch, a bit of finely chopped mint leaf creates a refreshing contrast.

Side Dishes

These bars pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet indulgent treat. They’re also delightful alongside a cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee to brighten any afternoon.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Bars on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh berries for a stylish brunch spread. You can also cut them into bite-size squares and present them on a tiered dessert tray for parties or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Bars in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their fresh flavor and delightful texture without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

To enjoy bars with that freshly baked warmth, pop them in a preheated oven at 325ºF for about 10 minutes or microwave a single piece for 15-20 seconds. This brings back freshness without compromising texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the bars soggy. You might also want to increase the cornstarch slightly to compensate.

Is it possible to make these bars vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based butter alternative and ensure your gluten-free flour blend is vegan-friendly. The recipe as written works perfectly with butter substitutes.

What type of gluten-free flour blend is best?

A 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum or guar gum works best to give the crust structure and tenderness similar to wheat flour.

Can I make these bars without cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps thicken the blueberry filling, so if you don’t have it, you could try using arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a substitute for similar results.

How lemony are these bars?

They have a bright, fresh lemon flavor balanced with sweetness and berry tartness. The lemon glaze on top adds a final punch of citrus that keeps every bite lively.

Final Thoughts

These Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Bars are such a joy to bake and eat, combining fresh fruit and vibrant citrus in a tender, buttery crust that’s totally allergy-friendly. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just craving something sweet and tangy, they never disappoint. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—you might just find a new favorite dessert that everyone will ask for again and again!

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