Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Crumb Bars

Name: Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Crumb Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup rolled oats; ½ cup packed brown sugar; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups Greek yogurt; 1 cup fresh blueberries; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cakes & Confections

I absolutely love these Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Crumb Bars! The combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries creates an irresistible flavor that has become a family favorite. Each bite offers a delightful crumbly texture paired with the creamy yogurt layer, making them perfect for a snack or dessert. I always find myself reaching for these bars after dinner or during a sunny afternoon tea. The bright citrus notes and fruity bursts make every bite a joy, and I can't wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-16T07:49:37.331Z

When I first made these Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Crumb Bars, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded together. The zest of fresh lemons complements the tartness of the blueberries beautifully, creating a refreshing treat. I've perfected the crumble topping to give it a satisfying crunch without being overly dry. This balance is vital for achieving the right texture!

A tip I've discovered is to use Greek yogurt for the filling, as it gives the bars a creamy consistency that truly enhances the overall flavor. After making these bars a few times, I now always keep some extra blueberries on hand for snacking while I bake!

Why You Will Love These Bars
The zesty lemon flavor brightens your day
Fresh blueberries provide bursts of natural sweetness
Creamy yogurt adds a delightful texture
Easy to make and perfect for gatherings

Understanding the Ingredients

The base of these bars relies heavily on the combined qualities of all-purpose flour and rolled oats, which contribute to both structure and chewiness. The oats add a wholesome texture, creating a heartiness that balances the creamy yogurt filling. When selecting your oats, make sure they are rolled, not quick-cooking, as the latter can lead to a mushy crust. Additionally, brown sugar brings a hint of caramelized sweetness that enhances the overall flavor, making it more complex than using granulated sugar alone.

Greek yogurt is a crucial ingredient in this recipe, offering a creamy and tangy contrast to the sweetness of the blueberries. It not only binds the filling but also adds protein, making these bars a more satisfying snack. If you're looking to reduce fat, consider using low-fat Greek yogurt, but avoid non-fat varieties, as they are more watery and can compromise the smooth texture. The brightness from lemon juice and zest is essential in cutting through the richness, providing balance and vibrancy in every bite.

Baking Tips for Perfect Bars

When preparing your crust, it's important to achieve a crumbly yet cohesive mixture. After combining the dry ingredients, add melted butter gradually, mixing until you have a texture similar to wet sand. Pressing firmly but not overly hard ensures a solid base that won’t crumble apart when slicing the bars. If you find the mixture too dry, a tablespoon of water or milk can help bind it without compromising texture.

During baking, keep an eye on the filling's surface; it should puff slightly and take on a light golden color around the edges. Baking for too long can lead to a dry filling, while underbaking may leave it too soft. Once removed from the oven, let the bars cool completely in the pan to firm up – at least 1 to 2 hours. For perfect slices, refrigerate them for another hour before cutting, which helps to solidify the yogurt layer further.

Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup rolled oats
½ cup packed brown sugar
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Yogurt Filling

2 cups Greek yogurt
1 cup fresh blueberries
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to wash the blueberries and zest the lemon before starting. This will ensure you have all your ingredients ready for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly. Reserve 1 cup of the mixture for the topping, and press the rest into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan.

Make the Yogurt Filling

In another bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Assemble the Bars

Pour the yogurt filling over the crust in the baking pan. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top, covering evenly.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and set. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Once cool, I recommend chilling the bars in the refrigerator for an hour before serving; this helps the flavors to meld even more!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in a teaspoon of lemon extract into the yogurt filling. You can also substitute frozen blueberries if fresh ones are not available.

Serving and Storage

These Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Crumb Bars make a delightful presentation when served chilled. I recommend cutting them into small squares or rectangles, as they are rich and satisfying, allowing guests to enjoy a small slice as a treat. They pair exceptionally well with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them ideal for afternoon gatherings or brunch events.

For storage, keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they can last for up to a week. If you need to make them ahead, freeze the baked and cooled bars. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours or overnight in the fridge.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to mix up the flavors by substituting the blueberries with other berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, for a seasonal twist. You could even use a mix of fruits to create a colorful and delicious variety. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the granulated sugar in the yogurt filling by half without sacrificing the creamy consistency.

For an added crunch, consider folding in some chopped nuts or granola into the yogurt filling before baking. This not only enhances the texture but also increases nutritional value. Lastly, if you're looking to eliminate gluten, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but ensure they are thawed and drained before adding to the filling.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

→ Is it possible to add more lemon flavor?

Absolutely! You can add more lemon zest or a bit more lemon juice to enhance the lemon flavor.