Strawberry Shortcake Bars

I remember the first time I tasted strawberry shortcake at a family picnic. The sun was shining, the fresh strawberries were bursting with flavor, and the sweet whipped cream was the perfect finishing touch. This Strawberry Shortcake Bars recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings all those memories flooding back. You can feel the warmth of summer in each bite, and it’s a dessert that invites us to share joyful moments with loved ones. Making it together can create a tradition that lasts for years. These bars are convenient and delicious, making them a special treat for any occasion.

why make this recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a wonderful way to enjoy the classic dessert in a simple and easy-to-eat form. You get the sweet, crumbly cake combined with fresh strawberries and whipped cream in every bite. They are perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home. Plus, they are great for sharing with friends and family.

how to make Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup sugar (for strawberries)
• Whipped cream (for serving)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add in softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in milk and vanilla extract, and mix until just combined.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
6. In another bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with the remaining sugar and let sit for 10 minutes.
7. Layer the strawberries over the batter in the dish, then spread the remaining batter on top of the strawberries.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow to cool before slicing into bars and serve with whipped cream.

how to serve Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Serve the Strawberry Shortcake Bars chilled or at room temperature. Place a few bars on a plate and top them with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Adding a few extra strawberry slices on top can make it even more appealing.

how to store Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to a month. Make sure to wrap them tightly to maintain freshness.

tips to make Strawberry Shortcake Bars

• Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen ones, but thaw and drain them first.
• Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for a light texture.
• Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries to enhance their flavor.

variation

You can mix it up by adding other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. You could even try a layer of lemon curd under the strawberries for a zesty twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
2. Yes, you can make them a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and serve them chilled or at room temperature.
3. Can I use a different type of berry?
4. Absolutely! You can use blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches instead of strawberries.
5. What can I use instead of butter?
6. You can substitute melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter if you want a dairy-free version.

Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Enjoy the classic dessert in a convenient and delicious bar form, perfect for summer gatherings and sharing with loved ones.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 12 bars

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour Use fresh or unbleached flour for best results.
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Can substitute with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• 1 cup milk Use any milk of your choice.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For added flavor.

For the strawberries

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced Use fresh strawberries for best flavor.
• 1/4 cup sugar For macerating the strawberries.

For serving

• Whipped cream For topping.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add in softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in milk and vanilla extract, and mix until just combined.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
6. In another bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with the remaining sugar and let sit for 10 minutes.
7. Layer the strawberries over the batter in the dish, then spread the remaining batter on top of the strawberries.

Baking

1. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Allow to cool before slicing into bars and serve with whipped cream.

Notes

Serve chilled or at room temperature. For added appeal, top with extra strawberry slices.