Introduction to Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Strawberry Lemon Blondies are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Why settle for ordinary when you can enjoy these pretty-in-pink bars that essentially scream “spring” from the first bite? With their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, it's no wonder they’ve become a favorite in many kitchens.
Why choose Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
Opting for Strawberry Lemon Blondies means you’re choosing a dessert that not only looks beautiful but tastes amazing too. The combination of strawberries and fresh lemon juice creates a zesty flavor profile that’s refreshing and utterly satisfying. Did you know that strawberries are packed with vitamin C, which can boost your immune system? When paired with lemon, you’re in for a Vitamin C powerhouse that brightens your day and your tastebuds!
These blondies are versatile—perfect for casual get-togethers, special occasions, or simply as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, they’re easy to make! With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, you’ll find yourself whipping them up in no time. Looking for more delicious strawberry recipes? Check out this source for inspiration!
Ingredients for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Making Strawberry Lemon Blondies is simpler than you might think! Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need to create these delightful pink bars that are bursting with flavor.
For the Blondies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature – The foundation for our rich, buttery base.
- ¾ cup sugar – A touch of sweetness that balances perfectly with the tartness of lemon.
- 1 large egg – This binds everything together.
- ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice – The star ingredient! Be sure to use fresh lemons for that zesty punch.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – This gives the blondies their structure.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – A little lift for those soft, chewy bars.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries – The heart of our recipe! Choose ripe strawberries for maximum flavor and sweetness.
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted – The base for a creamy, sweet glaze.
- 1 tablespoon strawberry puree – Made from about 2 large strawberries; it adds a vibrant color and flavor!
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Just enough to thin your glaze to a spreadable consistency.
Feel free to explore more about using fresh fruits in desserts at Food Network as you prepare your ingredients. Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll have a delicious batch of Strawberry Lemon Blondies waiting for you!
Preparing Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Creating Strawberry Lemon Blondies is a delightful experience that combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the sweetness of strawberries. Here’s how to prepare these delicious treats step by step!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into the mixing bowl, it's essential to gather all your ingredients to streamline the process. Here’s what you’ll need for the blondies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 tablespoon strawberry puree (from about 2 large strawberries)
- Lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon to thin it out)
Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the butter and sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together until you achieve a fluffy, light texture. This step is crucial—it's where the blondies begin to gain that delightful airiness.
Incorporate the Egg and Lemon Juice
Once your butter and sugar are creamed, add in the large egg. Beat it in well until fully incorporated. Following this, pour in the fresh lemon juice. It's perfectly fine if the mixture looks a little curdled at this stage; it will come together soon!
Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Stir until no dry flour remains—be careful not to overmix, as that could lead to denser blondies!
Fold in the Strawberries
Now comes the fun part—gently fold in the diced strawberries. The bright pink chunks will add not just a pop of color but an explosion of flavor. Use a spatula to ensure they are mixed in without breaking them apart too much.
Bake to Perfection
Spread the blondie batter into a lined 9x9 square baking pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet). Cool in the pan on a rack.
Prepare the Glaze
As your blondies cool, it’s time to whip up the glaze. For that, trim your strawberries and puree them in a small food processor. Strain through a fine sieve to get exactly 1 tablespoon of puree. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and lemon juice until it’s smooth and spreadable. Adjust the consistency as needed—add more lemon juice if it's too thick or more powdered sugar if too thin.
Glaze and Serve
Once your blondies are cool, drizzle the glaze over the top evenly. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing into squares. These blondies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet companion with a cup of tea.
Enjoy your Strawberry Lemon Blondies—they're as delicious as they are beautiful! For more delightful recipes and kitchen tips, be sure to check out Love and Lemons. Happy baking!
Variations on Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Are you looking to mix things up a bit with your strawberry lemon blondies? Here are two delightful variations to inspire your baking adventures!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies with Nuts
For those who enjoy a little crunch, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to your blondies. The nutty flavor complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the tartness of the lemon perfectly. Just fold in about ½ cup of toasted nuts when you add the strawberries for a rich, satisfying texture.
Lemon Blondies with Blueberries
Why not swap out the strawberries for blueberries for a fresh twist? Blueberries pair beautifully with lemon, creating a deliciously tangy dessert. Simply replace the cup of diced strawberries with the same amount of fresh blueberries. This variation keeps the charm of the original recipe while introducing a burst of new flavor.
Experiment with these ideas to create your unique take on strawberry lemon blondies! Don’t forget to check out our favorite tips and tricks here to get the perfect bake every time.
Baking Tips for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
When whipping up these delightful Strawberry Lemon Blondies, there are a few tips to keep in mind for the best results:
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Choose ripe strawberries: The flavor of your blondies depends heavily on the quality of the strawberries. Go for fresh, ripe ones for a burst of flavor!
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Don’t overmix: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix just until no dry flour remains. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies.
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Check for doneness: Stick a toothpick into the center around the 30-minute mark. It should come out moist but not wet.
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Cool before glazing: Allow the blondies to cool completely before applying the glaze to keep it from melting into the bars.
These tips can make a world of difference in your baking experience! Looking for more sweet recipes? Check out this guide on baking essentials for more insights.
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
When it comes to enjoying your Strawberry Lemon Blondies, there are plenty of delightful ways to elevate the experience. Here are a few serving suggestions that will leave your taste buds singing:
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Pair with Fresh Berries: Serve your blondies with a side of fresh strawberries or a mix of seasonal berries to enhance that fruity flavor profile.
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Dollop of Whipped Cream: A light dollop of vanilla or lemon-infused whipped cream on top can add a creamy contrast to the soft blondies.
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Ice Cream Dream: Consider a scoop of lemon or strawberry ice cream alongside your blondies for a refreshing twist that complements their sweet, tart taste.
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Garnishing Ideas: Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a lemon zest garnish to visually enhance the dish and amplify those citrus notes.
For more creative ideas, check out The Spruce Eats for inspiration on serving desserts in fun and inventive ways. Enjoy making these blondies a true showstopper at your next gathering!
Time Breakdown for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Preparation Time
The journey to your delicious Strawberry Lemon Blondies begins with a simple prep that takes just 15 minutes. This is the time you’ll spend gathering your ingredients, measuring them out, and mixing everything together.
Cooking Time
Once prepped, these blondies need to bake to perfection for around 30 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; you want that golden edge while ensuring the center remains perfectly set and moist.
Total Time
In just 45 minutes, you will transition from kitchen prep to enjoying the sweetly tart flavors of freshly baked Strawberry Lemon Blondies. It’s a quick yet rewarding process perfect for any occasion!
For an in-depth guide on how to make these delightful treats, be sure to check out the full recipe above or visit resources like Food Network for related baking tips!
Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Calories
Each delectable serving of these Strawberry Lemon Blondies packs about 319 calories. While enjoying a sweet treat, it's helpful to keep an eye on portion sizes, especially if you're watching your caloric intake.
Sugar
With 23 grams of sugar per blondie, these bars are undeniably sweet but come from natural sources like fresh strawberries and sugar. Balance your dessert with wholesome options throughout your day!
Protein
These blondies provide about 3 grams of protein each. While not a primary protein source, they do add a nice touch of energy to your afternoon snack. Pair with a glass of milk for a protein boost!
For more healthy dessert ideas, check out resources from sites like Healthline or EatingWell.
FAQs about Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely! If fresh strawberries aren't available, using frozen strawberries is perfectly acceptable. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent your blondies from becoming too moist. This will help maintain that delicious texture you crave!
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your strawberry lemon blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for about a week. For even better longevity, you can freeze them! Just wrap each blondie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to three months.
What can I substitute for lemon juice?
If you're out of fresh lemon juice, consider using lime juice for a similar tartness. Alternatively, apple cider vinegar can offer a different zesty flavor profile that works well in this recipe. Just remember to adjust the quantity to taste, as every substitute can vary in intensity.
For more tips on flavor substitutions, check out this guide. Happy baking!
Conclusion on Strawberry Lemon Blondies
In conclusion, strawberry lemon blondies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. Their soft texture melts in your mouth, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings or a cozy night in. Give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Equipment
- 9x9 square baking pan
- parchment paper
Ingredients
blondies
- 1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 ¼ cups all purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar sifted, measure out your sugar *before* sifting
- 1 tablespoon strawberry puree you'll need about 2 large strawberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or just enough to thin the glaze to a spreadable consistency
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350F.
- Line a 9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper with long edges. This is optional but will help you lift out the blondies for easy glazing and slicing later.
- Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg.
- When the egg is fully incorporated, beat in the lemon juice. The lemon juice will probably not completely incorporate at this point, that's ok.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, and add to the wet ingredients, mixing until no more dry flour is present.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries. Spread the mixture into your pan and spread out as evenly as possible. The dough is thick, so take your time. I like to use a large offset spatula for this job.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, just until starting to turn golden around the edges and the center is set. A toothpick inserted in the center will be moist but not wet. Don't over-bake these, or they will dry out. Let cool on a rack.
- Trim the strawberries for the glaze and puree in a small food processor. Strain the puree through a small strainer to get 1 tablespoon of puree. Whisk together the sugar, puree, and lemon juice until no lumps remain. If your glaze is too thin, add a touch more sugar. If it's too thick, add more lemon juice.
- Spread the glaze over the cooled blondies. Let the glaze set before slicing.
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