Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful twist on the classic blondie. Infused with the refreshing flavors of strawberries and lemon, these dessert bars are soft, chewy, and bursting with fruity goodness. Whether you’re preparing for a spring picnic, a potluck, or a sweet treat for your family, these blondies are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Blondies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries (patted dry)
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: fresh strawberry slices or lemon zest for garnish
Preparation
1. Prepare the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and whisk until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
2. Bake the Blondies:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before glazing.
3. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
4. Glaze and Garnish:
- Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled blondies. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or additional lemon zest if desired.
- Allow the glaze to set for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares or bars.
Variation
- Berry Swap: Substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a new flavor profile.
- Coconut Lemon: Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
- White Chocolate Chip Blondies: Fold ½ cup white chocolate chips into the batter for extra sweetness.
Cooking Note
To prevent the strawberries from making the batter too moist, pat them dry with a paper towel before folding them into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert on a warm day.
- Pair with a cup of tea or lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat.
Tips
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can be used but should be thawed and thoroughly drained.
- For cleaner cuts, chill the blondies in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before slicing.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 12 Bars)
- Calories: 270
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 125mg
FAQs
1. Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for similar results.
2. How should I store Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze these blondies?
Absolutely. Wrap individual blondie squares tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a refreshing and zesty dessert perfect for any occasion. Their soft, chewy texture, coupled with bursts of strawberry and a tangy lemon glaze, makes them irresistible. Easy to make and even easier to eat, these blondies are bound to be a hit with family and friends alike. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of fruity bliss!