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Strawberry Lemon Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of fresh lemons. These bars are ideal for a summer picnic, a family gathering, or simply a sweet indulgence at home. With their vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, Strawberry Lemon Bars are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. In this recipe, we will guide you through the simple steps to create these delicious bars, packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and baking powder until smooth. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Pour the strawberry-lemon filling over the baked crust. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar, cut into squares, and serve. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Lemon Bars!
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before chopping to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
How can I store leftover Strawberry Lemon Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with Strawberry Lemon Bars?
These bars pair wonderfully with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a dollop of yogurt for a refreshing dessert.
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