Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe

Introduction

If you love fresh strawberries paired with sweet, buttery shortcake, these Strawberry Shortcake Bars are sure to delight. Soft, chewy, and easy to slice, they’re perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a fruity, nostalgic dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sweetening berries)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• Whipped cream or stabilized whipped topping (optional)
• White chocolate drizzle or powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, then beat until smooth.
3. Step 3: Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. The dough will be thick and sticky.
4. Step 4: Spread about two-thirds of the batter evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
5. Step 5: In a separate bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with cornstarch and optional sugar, then spread evenly over the batter in the pan.
6. Step 6: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the strawberry layer. It won’t cover the berries completely, and that’s fine.
7. Step 7: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
8. Step 8: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Before serving, top with whipped cream or dust with powdered sugar if desired, then slice and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• Use room-temperature butter and eggs for a smooth batter and tender base.
• Don’t overmix after adding dry ingredients to keep the cake tender.
• If strawberries are very juicy, pat them dry on paper towels to avoid soggy bars.
• Chill the bars before slicing for cleaner cuts and neater presentation.
• Try adding raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry version.
• Add lemon zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy twist.
• For a richer dessert, swirl in a sweetened cream cheese layer or fold in mini white chocolate chips.
• Use strawberry jam as a faster alternative to fresh berries—reduce added sugar if doing so.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, cool completely, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, and place them in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge. If topped with whipped cream, add it fresh before serving, as it does not freeze well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid soggy bars.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be a bit softer but still delicious.

Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 100 reviews

• Author: Julian
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 bars 1x

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Description

Strawberry Shortcake Bars offer a delicious and easy twist on the classic dessert, combining a buttery shortcake base with fresh, juicy strawberries and a luscious whipped topping. Perfect for summer gatherings, these bars are easy to make, serve, and customize with seasonal fruits or toppings, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shortcake Base

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt

Filling

• 2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sweetening berries)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Topping (Optional)

• Whipped cream or stabilized whipped topping
• White chocolate drizzle or powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Prep the pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
2. Make the shortcake base: In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until the batter is smooth and well combined.
3. Add dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. The resulting dough will be thick and slightly sticky—avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
4. Layer the batter: Spread about two-thirds of the batter evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a firm, uniform base layer.
5. Prepare the strawberries: Toss the chopped fresh strawberries with cornstarch and sugar if desired. This mixture helps to thicken the filling and reduce excess moisture. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the batter base.
6. Top with remaining dough: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the strawberry layer. It is normal if this layer does not fully cover the strawberries; this creates a delicious rustic look and allows the filling to peek through.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of the bars comes out clean.
8. Cool and top: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. Before serving, add whipped cream or a drizzle of white chocolate or powdered sugar for an elegant, creamy finish.

Notes

• Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
• Allow bars to cool completely before slicing to help them set and hold their shape.
• Top with whipped cream just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
• You can prepare the bars ahead of time by baking and freezing them without the topping; thaw and garnish right before serving.
• If strawberries are very juicy, blot them with paper towels to remove excess moisture to avoid sogginess.
• Chilling bars before slicing can result in cleaner edges and a neater presentation.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Strawberry Shortcake Bars, Summer Desserts, Easy Dessert Bars, Fresh Strawberry Dessert, Shortcake Bars, Picnic Dessert