If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dessert to impress your friends and family, look no further than these heavenly strawberry Pie Bars. Packed with sweet and tart flavors, these bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. In this recipe, discover how to use fresh, juicy strawberries to create a dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Growing up, my grandmother always made the most delightful fruit-filled desserts during the summer months. One of my fondest memories is helping her pick strawberries from her garden, which we would later bake into her signature strawberry pie bars. The aroma of fresh strawberries and the warmth of the kitchen made every summer feel magical. Now, whenever I make this recipe, it brings back those cherished memories and fills my home with the same inviting scent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly convenient, as it takes less than an hour from preparation to table. The bars are not only visually appealing but are also packed with the fresh, vibrant flavor of strawberries that balance perfectly with the buttery crust. Moreover, they’re versatile, making them perfect for a family picnic or a fancy dessert party. You’ll also appreciate the simplicity of the ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.

Ingredients Notes

For this recipe, you’ll need fresh strawberries, flour, butter, sugar, and a hint of lemon juice. While fresh strawberries are best, you can substitute frozen ones if fresh are unavailable—just make sure they’re thawed and drained before using. Additionally, feel free to use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, and consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make cleanup much easier.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press half of this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish to form the crust.

Step 3

In another bowl, toss the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the crust, making sure they are distributed evenly to cover the entire base.

Step 4

Sprinkle the remaining flour and butter mixture over the top of the strawberries. This will create a lovely crumb topping as it bakes.

Step 5

Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the strawberries are bubbling. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, place the bars in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to three months. To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven at a low temperature for best results.

Variations & Substitutions

Consider adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the strawberries for a mixed berry experience. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix instead of regular flour. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or almonds on top for added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These strawberry pie bars are stunning on their own but pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They’re perfect for a summer picnic, brunch buffet, or as a delightful dessert for a dinner party. Serve alongside a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade to complete the treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Make sure they are fully thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can make the bars soggy.

How do I know when the bars are fully baked? The topping should be a golden brown, and the strawberry filling should be bubbling. A toothpick inserted into the crust should come out mostly clean.

What is the best way to cut the bars? For clean cuts, make sure the bars are fully cooled before slicing. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for perfectly neat bars.

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