Strawberry Lemon Bars

Strawberry Lemon Bars are one of those delightful recipes that blend sweetness with a tangy twist. If you’re in the mood for a treat that’s refreshing and bright, these bars are perfect! Imagine biting into a creamy lemon filling, bursting with the vibrant notes of strawberries, all nestled on a buttery shortbread crust. What’s not to love? They’re easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Plus, the combination of flavors is just heavenly. Picture sharing these beauties at a picnic, or just enjoying them solo with a cup of tea on a lazy afternoon.

Making Strawberry Lemon Bars will definitely charm your friends and family. They’re not only a feast for the taste buds but also visually stunning with their inviting colors. Now, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on crafting this delightful dessert that brings sunshine into any day.

Why This Recipe Works

One of the best things about Strawberry Lemon Bars is the delicate balance of sweetness and tartness. Fresh lemons bring that zesty kick while the strawberries add a fruity sweetness. This combination makes every bite refreshing and exciting.

The shortbread crust plays an essential role too. It adds a buttery richness that perfectly complements the citrusy filling. And let’s talk texture! The careful cooking of the lemon curd prevents scrambling, which ensures you end up with a smooth, velvety finish. This key step takes a little focus but results in a perfect filling that’s just begging to be savored.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Lemon Bars

These Strawberry Lemon Bars are not just any dessert; they’re a vibrant and colorful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just want something sweet at home, they fit the bill beautifully.

What I really love is how simple they are to make with ingredients you probably have on hand. And if you’re thinking about portioning, they’re delightful for sharing but equally lovely if you want to indulge on your own. So, invite your friends or treat yourself—these bars are a win either way!

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (226 g)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (265 g)

For the Lemon Curd:

• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar (270 g)
• 1/2 cup egg yolks (from about 8 large eggs; 135 g)
• 1 tbsp grated lemon zest
• 1 1/3 cups lemon juice (from about 8 large lemons; 310 g)
• 2 tbsp freeze-dried strawberries, crushed to a fine powder

Make the Shortbread Crust

To get started with these bars, you’ll want to preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). While that’s warming up, line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, letting some paper hang over the sides. This makes for easy removal later.

In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until everything is combined nicely. Once that’s done, add in kosher salt and flour, mixing until you get a thick dough. Then, transfer that dough into the prepared pan. Smooth out the top gently with a spatula.

Now, it’s time to bake! Pop it in the oven for about 25 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden. Once done, remove it and let it cool completely.

Make the Lemon Curd

While your crust is cooling, let’s whip up that delightful lemon curd. Start by setting aside the crushed freeze-dried strawberries in a small bowl. They’re going to add that beautiful flavor later.

In a 3-quart stainless steel saucepan, whisk together the sugar, whole eggs, egg yolks, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Over low heat, stir this mixture constantly for about 4 minutes. Be careful to avoid scrambling the eggs!

Next, increase your heat to medium-low, continuing to stir until the curd thickens. This should take about 7-8 minutes. Once thickened, remove the pan from the heat and strain the curd into a large bowl to ensure a super smooth texture. Now, mix half a cup of this lemon curd with the crushed strawberries until they’re combined well.

Assemble the Strawberry Lemon Bars

With the shortbread crust cooled and the lemon curd ready, it’s time to assemble. Pour the remaining lemon curd over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Next, take that strawberry curd and dollop it on top. Swirl it gently with a butter knife to create a lovely marbled effect.

Now, bake this masterpiece at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the curd is set. Allow it to cool, then refrigerate until fully set, which usually takes about an hour. Once set, cut into 16 squares and voilà—your delicious Strawberry Lemon Bars are ready to be enjoyed!

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Lemon Bars shine when served chilled, making for a refreshing dessert after any meal. You can amp up the flavor by pairing them with whipped cream or some fresh strawberries on the side. They’re also perfect for various occasions like picnics, potlucks, or just as a light summer treat.

Tips for Success

To really maximize flavor, be sure to use fresh lemons instead of bottled juice; it makes a huge difference! Allow the melted butter to cool slightly before adding it to the mixture to avoid melting the sugar. When swirling the strawberry curd, remember to do it gently for those beautiful swirls, keeping the layers distinct but blended enough for a lovely effect.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? You can substitute freeze-dried strawberries with raspberries or blueberries to give these bars a berry twist. If you’re craving a little tropical flavor, consider adding a touch of coconut cream to the lemon curd. It brings a unique flair that’s really enjoyable.

Storage Tips

These bars store wonderfully. Simply keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you love planning ahead, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just remember to let them thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Pairing Ideas

For a delightful complementary experience, enjoy your Strawberry Lemon Bars with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh seasonal fruit salad, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

2. Yes, but keep in mind that fresh strawberries may change the texture and moisture level in the curd.

3. How do I know when the lemon curd is done?

4. The curd will steam but shouldn’t boil. It should be nicely thickened.

5. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

6. Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance; just store them in the fridge.

7. What if I don’t have an 8×8 pan?

8. No worries! Any similarly sized pan will work; just adjust baking times as needed.

9. Are these bars gluten-free?

10. You can make them gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

These Strawberry Lemon Bars are truly a delightful treat. They’re perfect for any gathering or just to bring a smile to your day. Enjoy the process of making them and the happiness they’ll bring to your taste buds!

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