Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These pretty in pink strawberry bars balance sweet and tart flavors, making them a hit at gatherings like Easter brunch or Mother’s Day celebrations. With a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, Strawberry Lemon Blondies are sure to brighten up your dessert table and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon creates a refreshing taste that delights the palate.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations, these blondies fit right in.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant pink color makes these bars visually appealing, making them great for sharing on social media.
• Delicious Glaze: A light glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and enhances the overall flavor experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Small food processor

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch square baking pan: Ideal size for evenly baking your blondies to perfection.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a fluffy mixture quickly, saving you time and effort.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in strawberries without damaging their shape.

Ingredients

Strawberry Lemon Blondies are pretty in pink strawberry bars with a sweetly tart flavor and a soft melt in your mouth texture!

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted (measure out your sugar before sifting.)
• 1 Tbsp strawberry puree (you’ll need about 2 large strawberries, instructions below.)
• lemon juice (about 1 Tbsp, or just enough to thin the glaze to a spreadable consistency)

How to Make Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F. This ensures that the blondies bake evenly when placed inside.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. This helps lift out the blondies easily later on.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg, mixing until combined.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice

Once the egg is incorporated, add the fresh squeezed lemon juice. Note that it may not fully blend at this stage, which is perfectly fine.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until no dry flour remains.

Step 6: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries. Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared pan using a large offset spatula.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden around the edges and set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out moist but not wet. Avoid over-baking to keep them tender. Let cool on a rack.

Step 8: Make Strawberry Glaze

For the glaze, trim strawberries for puree and blend them in a small food processor. Strain to obtain about 1 tablespoon of puree. Mix with powdered sugar and additional lemon juice, adjusting consistency as needed.

Step 9: Glaze Your Blondies

Once cooled, spread the glaze over your blondies. Allow it to set before slicing into squares for serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Strawberry Lemon Blondies are delightful and versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top your blondies with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness and a creamy contrast to the tartness.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair your blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess complements the sweet and tangy flavors wonderfully.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle some additional glaze over each blondie just before serving. This adds a beautiful shine and sweetness.

Accompanied by Fresh Strawberries

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries for a fruity twist. The freshness enhances the strawberry flavor in the blondies.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange sliced blondies on a dessert platter with other treats like cookies and brownies for variety at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Strawberry Lemon Blondies

To make sure your Strawberry Lemon Blondies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the blondies tender and soft.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if they’re done; it should come out moist but not wet.

• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allow the blondies to cool fully before applying the glaze to prevent it from melting away.

• Store Properly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Strawberry Lemon Blondies can be complemented by various side dishes that add texture and flavor. Here are some great pairings you might consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the blondies.
2. Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade enhances the lemon flavor while providing a refreshing drink option.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sophisticated touch that contrasts nicely with the dessert.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a tasty treat that combines textures and flavors beautifully.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These add an indulgent touch while keeping things fruity—perfect for strawberry lovers!
6. Pineapple Salsa: A zesty pineapple salsa brings tropical vibes that can brighten up any plate alongside these blondies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Lemon Blondies, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your dessert turns out perfectly. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your pan can lead to sticking. Use parchment for easy removal and clean slicing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in tough blondies. Mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated for a tender texture.
• Ignoring the baking time: Overbaking can make your blondies dry. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness with a toothpick.
• Using unripe strawberries: Using underripe fruit can affect flavor. Choose ripe strawberries for the best sweet-tart balance.
• Not allowing to cool before glazing: Glazing too soon can cause it to melt. Wait for the blondies to cool completely for a perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Lemon Blondies

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Lemon Blondies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place blondies on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces in 10-15 second intervals until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Strawberry Lemon Blondies?

Strawberry Lemon Blondies are delicious bars that combine sweet strawberries with zesty lemon, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

How long do Strawberry Lemon Blondies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these blondies can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure they are thawed and drained before adding to the batter.

How do I customize my Strawberry Lemon Blondies?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, use different berries, or even experiment with white chocolate chips. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful treat that beautifully combines fruity sweetness with zesty lemon flavor. Their soft texture makes them perfect for any gathering or as a simple dessert at home. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins, making it versatile and fun! Give these blondies a try; you won’t be disappointed!