Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that screams summer, these Strawberry Shortcake Bars are just the ticket! Imagine layers of soft, buttery cake infused with the freshness of juicy strawberries and topped with a rich dollop of whipped cream. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply a sweet treat at home, this recipe is bound to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Let’s dive into making this simple yet delicious dessert that’s bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 9 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with ¾ cup of the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing thoroughly until combined.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Mix just until everything is combined for a smooth batter.
- Spread half of the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it into an even layer.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with the remaining ¼ cup of sugar and the lemon juice, tossing to coat them beautifully.
- Evenly distribute the strawberry mixture over the batter in the baking pan, letting those vibrant bits peek through.
- Dollop the remaining batter over the strawberries and carefully spread it to create a cover.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, leaving you with a golden brown top.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
- Serve each bar with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries. You can also substitute the strawberries with other fresh fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist. If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to cream the butter and sugar well to incorporate air, which gives your bars a wonderfully light texture. Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures they’re evenly distributed in the batter. And remember, do not overmix once the dry and wet ingredients come together to avoid dense bars.
FAQ
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator covered tightly.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes! These bars freeze well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of summer flavors brought right to your table. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet strawberries and fluffy cake, topped with creamy goodness. They’re easy to make and sure to impress your friends and family, making them a must-try recipe this season. Enjoy baking, and get ready for compliments all around!