Introduction
When summer rolls around and fresh strawberries are at their peak, there’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a sweet treat that captures all those delicious flavors. These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are the perfect portable dessert that combines tender, buttery cake with a burst of juicy strawberries. They’re easy to make, beautifully delicious, and sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
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). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan to ensure your bars come out perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the softened butter, large egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until you have a smooth, cohesive dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a solid base for your strawberry filling.
- In another bowl, gently toss together the sliced strawberries, fresh lemon juice, and cornstarch until the strawberries are evenly coated.
- Spread the strawberry mixture over the dough in the baking pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed for a perfect ratio of fruit to cake.
- Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting by mixing the powdered sugar and milk together until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle the frosting over the cooled bars, then cut them into squares and serve to your eager guests!
Notes or Tips
These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a special touch, you can add a dollop of whipped cream on top when serving! If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of fresh mint can elevate the flavors even more.
Cooking Techniques
Pressing the dough firmly into the pan ensures an even base that holds up well to the juicy strawberries. Gently tossing the strawberries with cornstarch and lemon juice not only enhances their natural sweetness but also prevents them from becoming too soggy while baking. Remember to let the bars cool completely before frosting for the best texture and presentation!
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mixing them with the other ingredients.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check if your other ingredients, like baking powder and cornstarch, are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a delightful celebration of summer’s bounty. They offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, all wrapped in a soft, buttery base. Whether you’re serving them at a summer barbecue, a picnic in the park, or simply enjoying a quiet moment at home, these bars are sure to bring a smile to your face. So gather your ingredients, and let the baking begin!