Description
Strawberry-Lemonade Bars offer a perfect summer treat combining juicy fresh strawberries with the bright, tangy flavor of fresh lemon juice. Featuring a buttery, crisp crust and a creamy, tart-sweet filling, these bars are easy to make and ideal for gatherings, picnics, or a refreshing snack. With a delicate dusting of powdered sugar and natural pink hue, they present beautifully and satisfyingly in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
Topping
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press it evenly into a greased 9×13 inch pan, forming a firm and even base. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Make the Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries, ensuring the mixture is well combined with visible fruit pieces.
- Bake the Bars: Remove the crust from the oven and immediately pour the prepared filling over the hot crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set and firm up, making it easier to slice cleanly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar. Cut into squares and serve chilled for the most refreshing flavor experience.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Do not overbake the filling to keep the bars moist and tender.
- Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator for neat slicing and better texture.
- Always use fresh lemon juice for a brighter, more natural tartness.
- Press the crust firmly in the pan to provide a sturdy foundation for the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approximate)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg