As I opened my fridge one sunny afternoon, a vibrant quart of plump strawberries caught my eye, just waiting to be transformed into something special. That’s when it hit me—Easy Strawberry Lemon Blondies! These delectable bars effortlessly capture the sweet essence of fresh strawberries combined with a bright twist of lemon, making them an irresistible summer treat. What’s more, they’re a breeze to whip up, requiring just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a sweet snack, or craving that perfect homemade dessert, these blondies have you covered. Plus, you can easily adjust the texture to your liking—keep them cake-like or make them richer and denser. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Are Strawberry Lemon Blondies a Must-Try?
Bright, Fresh Flavors: The harmonious fusion of zesty lemon and sweet strawberries makes each bite a burst of summer joy.
Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking, these blondies fit perfectly even into your busiest days.
Versatility Galore: Prefer a cake-like texture or something denser? You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste!
Irresistible Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these blondies are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Indulgent Options: Want to elevate your dessert? Try drizzling with a lemon glaze or serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful twist!
Ready to savor these scrumptious blondies? Pair them with a refreshing summer drink and enjoy the sunshine!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies Ingredients
Get ready to create your new favorite summer treat with these essential ingredients!
For the Blondies
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; melted butter should cool slightly before mixing to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a caramel flavor; consider light or dark brown sugar based on preference.
- Eggs – Binds the mixture and adds structure; use room temperature eggs for best results.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; pure vanilla extract is recommended for a richer taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Base for the blondies providing structure; sift before measuring for accurate amounts.
- Baking Powder – Leavening agent for a light texture; ensure it is within its expiration date for effectiveness.
- Salt – Enhances flavor balance; use fine sea salt for a uniform mix.
For the Fruity Goodness
- Fresh Strawberries – Provides fruity flavor and moisture; drain and pat dry if juicy; chop coarsely for better texture.
- Lemon Zest – Infuses a fresh citrus aroma and flavor; zest before juicing to maximize flavor extraction.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor; freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for quality.
Now, let’s gather these ingredients and get ready to bring the fresh and vibrant taste of Strawberry Lemon Blondies into your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it well with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure your Strawberry Lemon Blondies release easily once baked, creating beautifully tender bars.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You should see the sugar starting to dissolve, which should take about 1-2 minutes of vigorous stirring. The sweetness and buttery richness are the foundation of your blondies, so ensure they’re well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the room temperature eggs and pure vanilla extract to your mixture. Mix thoroughly until it’s wonderfully smooth and glossy, which should take another minute or so. This step will enrich the flavor and provide structure to your Strawberry Lemon Blondies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be sure not to overmix, as you want your blondies to remain tender.
Step 5: Add Strawberries and Lemon
Gently fold in the coarsely chopped fresh strawberries along with the lemon zest and juice. You’ll want the strawberries to be evenly dispersed throughout the batter to get delightful bursts of fruity goodness in each bite. This vibrant mix brings the amazing flavors of summer to your Strawberry Lemon Blondies.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Pan
Pour the blondie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly using a spatula. Ensure that the top is level for an even bake. You should see flecks of strawberry and hints of lemon zest throughout, ready to transform into a delicious treat.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the blondies; you’re looking for a golden top that springs back gently when touched. The edges will start to pull away slightly from the pan, indicating they are done.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the Strawberry Lemon Blondies cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes. This cooling time allows the flavors to meld and improves the final texture. Slice into squares while still warm or wait for them to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
A summer meal is not complete without the perfect sides to complement the vibrant flavors of these delightful blondies.
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Fresh Berries Salad: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries brings a refreshing lightness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the blondies.
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Lemon Sorbet: Crisp and tangy, sorbet enhances the lemony notes of the blondies while providing a cool, creamy contrast on a warm day.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream adds a delightful touch of sweetness and complements the rich, buttery texture of the blondies beautifully.
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Mint Iced Tea: This refreshing drink with hints of mint serves as a palate cleanser, enhancing the fruity goodness of your dessert while keeping you cool.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fresh strawberries. The tartness of yogurt balances the sweetness of the blondies, creating a delicious combo.
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Lemonade: A classic summer drink that echoes the citrusy flavor of the blondies, making each bite even more enjoyable and refreshing.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For a touch of indulgence, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate on top of the blondies. It adds a rich contrast that enhances the overall flavor experience.
Enjoy these pairings to create a fantastic summer feast around your Strawberry Lemon Blondies!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize your Strawberry Lemon Blondies to suit your tastes!
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Dense & Fudgy: Keep the original proportions for a rich, chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
This version is perfect if you’re a fan of more indulgent desserts. The strawberries and lemon shine through beautifully! -
Cakey Bliss: Add an extra 1/4 cup flour for a light, airy texture.
Adjust the baking time slightly, and you’ll enjoy a cake-like blondie that’s just as delightful with a scoop of ice cream on top. -
Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
This option brings a lovely texture contrast, making each bite both chewy and nutty, perfect for those who love a little extra surprise! -
Citrus Burst: Enhance the lemon flavor with more lemon zest or a splash of lemon extract.
The extra zing will elevate your blondies and make them even more refreshing on those sunny days! -
Berry Medley: Mix in blueberries or raspberries along with the strawberries for a fruity variety.
This twist adds a colorful touch and a delightful medley of flavors that will charm any crowd! -
Vegan Optional: Replace butter with coconut oil and eggs with flax eggs for a plant-based version.
You’ll still get that wonderful sweetness and texture, perfect for vegan gatherings without sacrificing taste! -
Glaze it Up: Drizzle a lemon glaze over the cooled blondies for an extra layer of sweetness.
This glaze not only enhances the flavor but also gives a polished touch to your dessert—an effortless way to impress! -
Chill with Ice Cream: Serve warm blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Combining the warm, chewy texture of the blondies with the creaminess of ice cream is a match made in heaven!
For even more delicious summer ideas, why not check out these Lemon Blueberry Cottage or Greek Lemon Chicken recipes? They’re perfect for continuing the refreshing citrus theme! Enjoy your baking adventure!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Room Temperature: Store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: If you plan to keep them longer, refrigerate the blondies in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Just let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For extended storage, wrap individual blondies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best results.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, gently microwave a blondie for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Strawberry Lemon Blondies!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
• Juicy Strawberries: When using fresh strawberries, be sure to drain them well and pat dry to avoid gummy blondies that won’t hold their shape.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the batter and avoid overmixing after adding flour to keep your blondies tender and chewy, achieving the perfect texture.
• Check for Doneness: Rather than solely relying on a toothpick, look for a golden top and a slight pull from the edges to ensure your Strawberry Lemon Blondies are perfectly baked.
• Cooling Time: Allow the blondies to rest in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes after baking to let flavors develop and make slicing easier when you serve them.
• Glaze for Extra Flavor: Elevate your blondies by drizzling a simple lemon glaze on top once cooled, adding both flavor and a beautiful finish to your summer treat.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Strawberry Lemon Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and storing the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to fold in the strawberries, lemon zest, and juice right before you bake to maintain their flavor and texture. Additionally, baked blondies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked taste. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Lemon Blondies with minimal fuss!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for my blondies?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for bright red berries that are firm and free from dark spots. If possible, choose organic strawberries, as they tend to have more flavor. Avoid any that have bruising or are overly soft, as this can affect the texture and taste of your blondies.
What is the best way to store Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
I recommend keeping your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to store them longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying. They’ll still be delicious!
Can I freeze Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and indulge in their delightful flavors once again!
What should I do if my blondies are too dense or gummy?
If your blondies turn out dense or gummy, it’s often due to two key factors: overmixing the batter or using too many juicy strawberries. Make sure to gently fold the ingredients together to keep the batter tender. For strawberries, ensure you drain and pat them dry before adding them to the mix, as excess moisture can lead to gummy blondies.
Are there any dietary considerations for Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
Very! If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions, there are plenty of alternatives. For those who are dairy-free, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. If you need to avoid eggs, flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxmeal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) works well. Always check for allergies when selecting ingredients to ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful bars!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies: Your New Favorite Summer Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy in a large bowl.
- Incorporate room temperature eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to the wet ingredients, folding gently.
- Fold in chopped strawberries, lemon zest, and juice, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, looking for a golden top and edges pulling away from the pan.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then slice into squares and serve.
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