Strawberry Lemon Bars Recipe

These Strawberry Lemon Bars are a delightful and refreshing treat that combines a buttery shortbread crust with a sweet and tangy strawberry-lemon filling. The vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation make them perfect for a summer gathering, a picnic, or a special occasion dessert.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Strawberry Lemon Bars:

For the Crust:

• Unsalted butter: Melted, for a rich and buttery crust.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and flavor.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture.

For the Filling:

• Fresh strawberries: Hulled and quartered, for a sweet and fruity flavor.
• Eggs and egg yolks: Create a rich and creamy custard.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling.
• Lemon: Zested, for a bright and fragrant citrus flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds tartness and balances the sweetness.

How to Make Strawberry Lemon Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms and all the flour is incorporated. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, using a spatula to reach the corners and create an even layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Once the crust is baked, increase the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C).

Step 2: Make the Strawberry Puree

While the crust is baking, prepare the strawberry filling. Add the quartered strawberries and ⅓ cup of sugar to a saucepan and cook over medium-low heat until the strawberries are softened, about 10-12 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the strawberries until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, eggs, egg yolks, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, until the mixture thickens, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Remove the lemon custard from the heat and stir in the strawberry puree until well combined. If desired, you can add a small amount of ground freeze-dried strawberry powder to enhance the color of the filling. Pour the strawberry-lemon mixture over the pre-baked crust and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, or until the custard is set.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour before cutting. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Bars

• Dessert: These Strawberry Lemon Bars are a delightful dessert for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations.
• Picnic Treat: They’re perfect for picnics, potlucks, or outdoor gatherings.
• Afternoon Snack: Enjoy a bar with a cup of tea or coffee for a sweet afternoon treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of berry?
Yes, you can use other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, but the flavor will be different.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is always best for flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the bars a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator.

How can I make these bars vegan?
You can use vegan butter, egg substitutes, and a plant-based milk for the crust and filling.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Strawberry Lemon Bars that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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