Lemon Blueberry Bars

Lately, the days have been growing longer and longer and it seems that before we know it, summertime will be upon us again. And that sunny season, beloved by all brings beautiful weather and delicious produce. And seeing as the onset of warmer weather also brings a bounty of fresh berries, I thought I would share a recipe that celebrates the availability of these delicious fruits. These Lemon Blueberry Bars are full of spring flavors and absolutely addicting. Keeping a pan of these in the house for longer than a few days is a huge challenge. The bars themselves are perfectly moist and decadent with punches of flavor from the sweet blueberries. And the tangy lemon glaze is the perfect complement. Make them this week, and celebrate the flavors of spring!

Ingredients: Makes 9 bars

For the bars:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• zest of 1 whole lemon
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup fresh blueberries

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Preparation:

1. Cream butter & sugars together with an electric mixer
2. Beat in eggs & vanilla
3. Stir in lemon juice & zest
4. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder & salt
5. Slowly add flour mixture into butter mixture
6. Stir in blueberries
7. Spread batter into a greased 9 x 9 inch pan (batter will be similar to that of cookie dough)
8. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean
9. In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar & lemon juice together to form a lemon glaze
10. After bars have cooled, drizzle with lemon glaze