Introduction
There’s something irresistibly charming about strawberry shortcake, especially when it comes to enjoying it in bar form. These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, featuring a soft, buttery base and a generous layer of light, fluffy whipped cream atop fresh strawberries. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these bars are not only simple to make but also a joy to savor, with each bite bursting with rich strawberry flavor. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a favorite with family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 16 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, allowing them to distribute throughout the batter.
- Spread the deliciously sweet and fragrant batter evenly into your prepared baking pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial for developing the best texture.
- While the bars are cooling, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form. This will create a light and fluffy topping!
- After the bars have cooled, spread the whipped cream over the top, making it as generous as your heart desires, and slice into squares.
- Serve the strawberry shortcake bars chilled or at room temperature for a delightful dessert experience.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries in season. If you have leftover bars, store them in the refrigerator covered for up to 3 days. They make a fabulous snack or dessert whenever you’re craving a touch of sweetness!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves basic baking techniques like whisking and folding, making it suitable for bakers of all levels. Remember, when folding in the strawberries, be gentle to avoid breaking up the fruit too much, which would lead to streaks of color in your bars. The goal is to maintain some lovely whole pieces for a pop of freshness in each bite!
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before mixing into the batter to avoid excess moisture.
Can these bars be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Shortcake Bars blend the simplicity of a classic dessert with the fun of bar format, perfect for any occasion. Soft, buttery, and bursting with sweet strawberries, they are sure to impress everyone from dessert connoisseurs to casual snackers. Enjoy the blissful taste of summer anytime with these delightful treats!