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Strawberry-Lemonade Bars

Strawberry-Lemonade Bars
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This easy Strawberry-Lemonade Bars recipe combines the sweet juiciness of fresh strawberries with the bright, tangy flavor of lemonade, creating a refreshing and vibrant summer dessert. Perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or a simple treat, these bars feature a buttery crust and a luscious lemon-strawberry filling that’s quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil/plant-based butter for dairy-free)

For the Filling

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar (or honey for natural sweetness)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and softened butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 8×8 inch baking pan to form a firm crust. Bake for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden.
  2. Make the Strawberry-Lemonade Filling: While the crust bakes, puree the fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth but still slightly textured. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gently fold the strawberry puree into the lemon mixture until fully combined.
  3. Bake the Bars: Once the crust is slightly cooled but still warm, evenly pour the strawberry-lemonade filling over the crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly springy to the touch.
  4. Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to let the filling firm up. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least an hour for easier slicing. Cut into bars and serve.

Notes

  • Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor and color intensity.
  • Do not overbake the filling; it should be set but still tender for a luscious texture.
  • Chill the bars before cutting to achieve clean, neat slices.
  • Add lemon zest generously to enhance the citrus aroma and flavor.
  • Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.

Nutrition

Keywords: Strawberry lemonade bars, summer dessert, strawberry dessert, lemon dessert, gluten free dessert, easy baking

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/strawberry-lemonade-bars/