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Strawberry-Lemonade Bars

Strawberry-Lemonade Bars
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Strawberry-Lemonade Bars are a refreshing summer dessert combining fresh strawberries and zesty lemon flavors over a buttery, crisp crust. Perfect for picnics, parties, or a simple homemade treat, these bars balance sweet and tart flavors with a delightful texture contrast and are easy to prepare ahead.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces

Filling

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped

Topping

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the dough evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×9 inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
  2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and granulated sugar until smooth and slightly frothy. Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries, ensuring even distribution throughout the lemon mixture.
  3. Bake the bars: Pour the strawberry-lemon filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center, ensuring a moist and luscious texture.
  4. Cool and serve: Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for about an hour to meld the flavors. Slice into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use ripe, firm fresh strawberries for the best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overbake the filling; a slight wobble in the center indicates perfect doneness.
  • Always use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for a brighter, fresher taste.
  • Chill the bars thoroughly before cutting to get clean, neat squares.
  • Line the pan with parchment paper to easily lift out the bars and prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry bars, lemonade bars, summer dessert, lemon dessert, fresh strawberry dessert

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