If you’re looking for a sweet treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite, this Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe is just the ticket. With a tender, buttery crust beneath a juicy layer of fresh strawberries and a light drizzle of glaze on top, these bars bring together simple ingredients and classic flavors in a way that’s downright irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a picnic, a family gathering, or just because you deserve something delicious, these strawberry pie bars offer a perfect balance of crumbly texture and luscious fruit that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe means gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role. From the rich butter and sugars that create a tender crust to the fresh strawberries that add vibrant color and natural sweetness, every component is vital to making these bars shine.
- Butter, 1 cup unsalted softened: Gives the crust a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar, 2/3 cup + 2 tablespoons: Sweetens the dough and the strawberry filling perfectly.
- Brown sugar, 1/4 cup: Adds moisture and a warm, caramel-like depth to the crust.
- Eggs, 2 large: Binds the dough, providing structure and tenderness.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances overall flavor with a subtle, sweet aroma.
- All-purpose flour, 2 1/2 cups: Forms the sturdy base of the bars without weighing them down.
- Baking powder, 1 teaspoon: Lightens the crust for a delicate crumb.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances sweetness and boosts flavor.
- Fresh strawberries, 2 cups chopped: The star ingredient, adding juicy, fruity brightness.
- Cornstarch, 2 teaspoons: Thickens the strawberry filling to prevent sogginess.
- Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon: Adds a zesty tang that enhances the fruit’s natural flavor.
- Powdered sugar, 1/2 cup: Used to make a smooth glaze to finish the bars with a sweet touch.
- Milk, 1–2 tablespoons: Adjusts glaze consistency for easy drizzling.
How to Make Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This ensures your bars come out cleanly and are easy to slice later. Preparing the dish ahead sets you up for smooth assembly.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it traps air, making your crust tender. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until everything is well combined, creating a smooth, rich dough ready for the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet dough, mixing just until combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky, which will give you the perfect texture for your bars.
Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In another bowl, gently toss the chopped fresh strawberries with the cornstarch, extra granulated sugar, and lemon juice. This coating turns the berries into a thick, juicy filling that won’t leak during baking, keeping your bars neat and flavorful.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Spread about two-thirds of your dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down gently but firmly. Then spoon the strawberry filling evenly over this base layer. Finally, drop the remaining dough in small spoonfuls over the fruit, creating a rustic, textured top that bakes into golden perfection.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the bars for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top turns a lovely light golden color and the fruit filling is bubbly. Once out of the oven, let the bars cool completely in the pan; this helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Step 7: Add the Sweet Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons of milk until smooth and drizzly. Once the bars are cooled, drizzle this glaze over the top for an extra touch of sweetness and a pretty finishing detail before cutting into squares.
How to Serve Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe, consider a light sprinkle of finely chopped fresh mint or a few thin slices of strawberry on top. These garnishes add a pop of color and a refreshing brightness that freshens every bite.
Side Dishes
Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience. If you prefer something lighter, a cup of hot tea or iced lemonade pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the bars on a rustic wooden board sprinkled with edible flower petals for a charming picnic presentation. For gatherings, placing the bars in pretty cupcake wrappers or serving them with mini forks can add a touch of elegance and convenience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping them chilled preserves their freshness and texture, so you can enjoy that delightful balance of buttery crust and luscious strawberries even days later.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze wonderfully and can be kept for up to two months. When you’re ready for a sweet treat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
If you’d like to enjoy the bars warm, pop them briefly in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or heat them in a low oven to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feeling. Adding a scoop of ice cream on top after reheating turns them into an irresistible dessert all over again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes! If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen (thawed and drained) strawberries can work well. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy crust.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for the best results. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will stay delicious.
Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Definitely! While strawberries are the star here, mixing in blueberries or raspberries can add a lovely twist. Just adjust the cornstarch as needed to keep the filling from being too watery.
How long do these bars last at room temperature?
Because of the fresh fruit filling, it’s best to store the bars in the fridge after about two hours out at room temperature to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Can I make these bars vegan?
With a few ingredient swaps, yes! Use dairy-free butter and an egg substitute like flax eggs, and replace the milk in the glaze with plant-based milk to create a vegan-friendly version.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe enough for anyone craving a homemade dessert that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh flavor. They’re simple to prepare yet impressive in taste and appearance, perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging yourself. Trust me, once you make these bars, they’ll become your go-to recipe whenever strawberries are in season or whenever you’re ready for a joyful slice of sweet summer sunshine.
Print
Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Strawberry Pie Bars feature a buttery, tender crust loaded with fresh strawberry filling and topped off with a sweet glaze, making them a perfect summery dessert that’s easy to prepare and delightfully satisfying.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier removal of the bars.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help create a tender crust.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Prepare Strawberry Filling: In another bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with cornstarch, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling as it bakes.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan, pressing it down to form a base. Spoon the strawberry mixture evenly over the crust. Drop the remaining dough by small spoonfuls over the top to create a rustic, patchy layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and set, indicating the bars are cooked through.
- Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, which will help them firm up for easier slicing.
- Make and Drizzle Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar and 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars for added sweetness and a lovely finish.
- Cut and Serve: Once glazed and set, cut the bars into 12 squares and serve.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, use fresh strawberries. However, frozen strawberries that are thawed and drained can be a convenient substitute.
- Adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough can add warmth and extra depth of flavor.
- Store leftover bars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
