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Sweet summer strawberries meet tangy citrus in these irresistible homestyle blondies. The buttery, tender crumb provides the perfect canvas for juicy berries and bright lemon zest, creating a dessert that's both comforting and elegant.
This recipe emerged during peak strawberry season and quickly claimed its spot as a family favorite. The kitchen fills with an intoxicating aroma as the berries and lemon meld during baking.
Key Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and allows seasoning control
- Fresh strawberries: Select ripe, red berries for optimal sweetness
- Lemon: Fresh zest and juice deliver bright citrus notes
- All-purpose flour: Creates ideal texture
- Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and caramel notes
Preparation Method
- Initial Setup:
- Bring ingredients to room temperature. Prepare baking pan and preheat oven.
- Mixing:
- Blend wet ingredients until smooth. Fold in dry ingredients gently. Add berries carefully.
- Baking:
- Look for golden edges. Test center with toothpick. Cool completely.
- Finishing:
- Prepare glaze until smooth. Drizzle decoratively. Allow to set.
The classic pairing of strawberry and lemon proves timeless in this recipe. Each bite captures the essence of summer baking traditions.
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Serving Suggestions
These blondies shine at afternoon gatherings. Pair with herbal tea in summer or spiced tea in winter. For special occasions, serve with whipped mascarpone and fresh berries.
Recipe Variations
Experiment with different berries as seasons change. Try lime and coconut for tropical notes. Add cream cheese swirls for richness.
Storage Instructions
Layer with parchment paper in an airtight container. Best within two days at room temperature. Refrigerate for extended storage.
Baking Success Guide
- Texture Tips:
- Achieve ideal consistency by maintaining proper batter thickness. Allow batter to rest briefly before adding berries.
- Berry Selection:
- Choose peak-season strawberries for best results. Look for uniform red color and sweet aroma.
- Glaze Technique:
- Strain puree thoroughly for smooth consistency. Remove all seeds for professional finish.
- Temperature Control:
- Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing. Allow proper time for ingredients to warm.
- Zesting Method:
- Focus on yellow outer peel only. Use microplane for fine zest.
- Seasonal Options:
- Consider quality frozen berries in off-season. Thaw and dry thoroughly before use.
- Equipment Selection:
- Choose light metal pans for even baking. Use silicone tools for gentle mixing.
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This recipe has earned its place as a treasured family dessert. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making each serving better than the last.
Recipe Tips & Help
- → Can frozen strawberries replace fresh ones?
- Fresh ones are best since frozen berries add extra liquid, which can make the bars too wet.
- → What’s the storage method for these bars?
- Keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- → Can I bake these in advance?
- Absolutely! Prepare the bars the day before, but wait to glaze them until serving to keep them looking fresh.
- → Why is my glaze too thin?
- If it’s runny, mix in more powdered sugar a little at a time until it thickens up.
- → How do I cut them cleanly?
- Let the glaze harden first, then use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between each cut for a tidy look.