Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Crumb Bars

Name: Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Crumb Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 large eggs; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Recipes

I love making these Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Crumb Bars whenever I'm craving something sweet yet refreshing. The blend of tart lemon and succulent blueberries creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. I appreciate how the yogurt adds a creamy texture while keeping the bars light. They are perfect for breakfast or a snack, and I find that they’re a hit at gatherings. Plus, the crumbly topping just makes everything better – it takes these bars to the next level, making them a favorite in my household!

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-16T09:29:37.123Z

When I first tried combining lemon and blueberry in a dessert, I was amazed by how those flavors work in harmony. The tartness of the lemon really enhances the sweetness of the blueberries, creating a delightful contrast. I decided to incorporate yogurt for a creamy element, which also adds to the nutritional value. It’s a fun experiment that turned out to be a good one!

During the baking process, I discovered that letting the bars cool completely before cutting ensures clean, beautiful pieces. This gives the crumb topping time to set, making each bite a perfect mix of juicy fruit and buttery crumble. I can't resist pairing these with a cup of tea!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Zesty lemon flavor combined with juicy blueberries
Creamy yogurt adds a delightful texture
Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a personal treat

Understanding Ingredients

The choice of Greek yogurt in these bars not only provides a creamy texture but also contributes protein to the recipe, making these bars more satisfying. Greek yogurt's tanginess pairs beautifully with the tartness of the lemon, creating a tropical flavor profile that's both refreshing and indulgent. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut yogurt instead; it brings a subtle sweetness and pairs well with the other ingredients.

Using fresh blueberries is crucial for achieving the best results. They not only infuse the bars with their natural sweetness and color but also provide a burst of juiciness with every bite. If fresh blueberries aren't available, you can substitute frozen ones. Just remember to toss them lightly in flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

Perfecting the Crumb Topping

The crumbly topping is what elevates these bars to a decadent treat. To ensure a perfectly crumbly texture, mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding melted butter. This helps to evenly distribute the fat, preventing overly greasy sections. Aim for a mixture that resembles coarse breadcrumbs when you're finished; this will achieve the ideal light and crunchy top after baking.

If you're seeking a little variety in texture, consider adding chopped nuts or granola to the crumb topping. Pecans or almonds would add a delightful crunch and enhance the flavor. When modifying the topping, just remember to adjust the sweetness accordingly, especially if you're including sweetened granola.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and cooled, these Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Crumb Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This not only keeps them fresh but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time. If you want to prepare them ahead of a gathering, consider baking a day in advance; chilling enhances the texture and makes for cleaner cuts.

For serving, I recommend cutting the bars into small squares for bite-sized treats that are ideal for sharing. You can also drizzle a little extra honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an elegant presentation. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Crumb Base and Topping

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

1 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1 cup fresh blueberries

Make sure to have everything ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect bars:

Prepare the Crumb Mixture

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, baking powder, and salt. Mix until crumbly, and reserve half for the topping.

Make the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Assemble and Bake

Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8x8-inch baking dish. Pour the yogurt filling over the crumb base and sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top. Bake for 25 minutes or until set and golden.

Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before slicing into squares. For best results, chill in the refrigerator for one hour before serving.

Enjoy your delicious bars with a refreshing beverage!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding some lemon extract to the filling. It boosts the lemon flavor even more!

Serving Ideas

These Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Crumb Bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. For breakfast, serve them with a side of fresh fruit and a hot cup of tea or coffee to start your morning off right. They also make an excellent afternoon snack, pairing beautifully with yogurt for extra creaminess.

If you're hosting a brunch or tea party, cut the bars into small bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter. You can garnish the serving dish with lemon slices or mint leaves for a fresh touch. This presentation not only makes them look more appealing but also invites guests to enjoy just one more piece!

Troubleshooting Tips

If you notice that your bars are falling apart when you cut them, it could be due to not allowing them to cool completely before slicing. Make sure to let them cool in the baking dish for at least 30 minutes, and then refrigerate them for an hour for the best slicing result. This helps firm up the filling and makes cutting easier while maintaining their shape.

Another common issue can arise if the bars are overbaked, which might lead to a dry texture. Watch them closely towards the end of the baking time; they're done when the edges are golden and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. If you're in doubt, it's better to take them out a bit early rather than risk baking them too long.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can swap out the brown and granulated sugars for a natural sweetener like coconut sugar or even a sugar substitute designed for baking, keeping in mind the sweetness level may vary. Ensure that any substitute is appropriate for baking to maintain the desired texture.

Eggs can also be replaced if you're making these bars vegan. Try using flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water, where one tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons of water substitutes one egg. Just remember to adjust the moisture in the filling if you notice the consistency changing with your substitutions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well! Just ensure they’re thawed and drained before adding them.

→ How should I store the bars?

Keep the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative if needed.

→ Can these bars be frozen?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.