Irresistible Strawberry Lemon Bars
These delightful squares blend the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon, creating a mouthwatering dessert that is both visually appealing and easy to make.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted Butter should be cooled slightly before combining.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour blend.
- ½ cup powdered sugar
For the filling
- ½ cup granulated sugar Adjust sweetness to taste.
- 3 large eggs Can be replaced with flaxseed meal for vegan option.
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the strawberry glaze
- 1 cup strawberries, pureed Fresh or thawed from frozen.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch Used to thicken the glaze.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients and ensure you have a baking pan greased with butter or lined with parchment paper.
Cook the Base
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Combine the melted butter with all-purpose flour and powdered sugar, mixing until you achieve a crumbly texture.
Bake the Base
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust turns a lovely golden brown.
Mix the Filling
- While the base is baking, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt in a large bowl until smooth.
Add the Filling
- Once the crust is baked and cooled slightly, pour the lemon filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake Again
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set.
Chill the Bars
- Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours to firm up.
Prepare the Strawberry Glaze
- Heat the pureed strawberries and cornstarch over medium heat in a small saucepan, stirring until thickened.
Add the Glaze
- Pour the strawberry glaze evenly over the chilled bars and spread gently.
Slice and Serve
- Once the glaze has set, slice the bars into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They freeze well for longer storage.