This Lemon Blueberry Delight is a fresh and fruity treat that’s sure to brighten your day! With zesty lemon flavor and sweet blueberries, it’s light and perfect for any occasion.
Who needs dessert when you can have a bowl of this delight? It’s like sunshine in a dish! I love serving it chilled on warm days—so refreshing and simple to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These form the crust for your dessert. If you can’t find them, crushed digestive biscuits work well as an alternative. Some people even use oatmeal cookies for a unique flavor twist!
Unsalted butter: I always choose unsalted butter to control the saltiness. You can substitute with margarine or coconut oil if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
Cream cheese: For a lighter version, consider using Neufchâtel cheese, which has fewer calories. If you’re vegan, look for vegan cream cheese alternatives to keep the dish plant-based.
Lemon curd: Store-bought lemon curd is convenient, but if you have time, making it from scratch allows you to control the sweetness and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, try substituting with a lemon-flavored yogurt!
Fresh blueberries: Blueberries add a burst of flavor, but you can swap them with raspberries or strawberries if you prefer. Frozen berries work too, but drain any excess liquid before adding them.
How Do You Ensure a Perfect Crust for Your Lemon Blueberry Delight?
The crust is crucial for this dessert, so taking the time to prepare it well pays off. Here’s how to make sure it turns out just right:
- Start with the right mixture of graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Ensure it’s moist but not soggy.
- Press it firmly into the baking dish. A flat-bottomed measuring cup can help achieve an even crust.
- Bake it for just 10 minutes. This helps to set the crust, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Make sure to let it cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer, or it may melt into the crust.
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Delight
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Layer:
- 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups fresh blueberries, divided
For the Topping:
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus 4 hours chilling time in the refrigerator. So, plan on a total of about 4 hours and 20 minutes to enjoy your Lemon Blueberry Delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, in a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create a nice crust. Bake it in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then take it out and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s nice and smooth and creamy. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over your cooled graham cracker crust. Take your time to make it look nice!
3. Layering the Lemon and Blueberries:
Next, take the lemon curd and spread it evenly over the cream cheese layer, using a spatula to smooth it out. Now for the fun part! In a separate bowl, take 1 cup of fresh blueberries and gently toss them with a little sugar if you like things sweeter. Arrange the blueberries evenly on top of the lemon curd layer.
4. Final Touch and Chill:
Carefully spread the whipped topping over the blueberries, covering them completely. Top it off with some extra fresh blueberries and garnish with lemon slices for a pop of color. Now, cover the dish and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results. When you’re ready to serve, cut it into squares, and enjoy your refreshing Lemon Blueberry Delight!
Can I Use Other Types of Cookies for the Crust?
Absolutely! You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even Oreos for a different flavor. Just ensure the texture is similar to graham cracker crumbs and adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the cookies you choose.
Can I Make This Dessert Without Cream Cheese?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option or dairy-free alternative, you can use a whipped coconut cream or a vegan cream cheese substitute. Just make sure it’s well blended for a smooth texture when mixed with powdered sugar and vanilla.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have multiple layers, consider wrapping each layer separately to keep them fresh. Make sure to cover the top with plastic wrap to prevent the whipped topping from drying out.
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid. Pat them dry with a paper towel before tossing with sugar and adding to the dessert to prevent sogginess.
