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
Scale
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.
