Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe
Bright, sweet, and loaded with juicy strawberries, these Strawberry Pie Bars are pure summer joy in dessert form! Whether you’re celebrating berry season or just in need of a cheerful treat, this easy recipe delivers all the nostalgic flavors of your favorite strawberry pie but in a far less fussy, totally portable bar. Each bite offers a buttery base, glistening fruit, and a delicate, crumbly top—guaranteed to win hearts at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about making Strawberry Pie Bars is that the magic comes from simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component works together to create a treat that’s fruity, comforting, and just the right amount of sweet. Here’s what you need, and why it matters:
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The secret to a rich, tender crust and crumbly topping—make sure it’s room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds structure and just enough sweetness to balance the tart strawberries.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Contributes a melt-in-your-mouth texture to the dough and optional glaze.
- Large egg (1): Helps bring all the dough ingredients together and adds a bit of richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Lends a warm, aromatic note that enhances both the dough and the fruit.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): Forms the essential base and structure for the bars.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances out the sweetness and amplifies all the other flavors.
- Strawberry preserves or jam (1 1/2 cups): Provides a luscious, fruity filling; use your favorite or make it homemade for extra flair.
- Fresh strawberries, diced (1 1/2 cups): Bring freshness and bright pops of flavor to every bite—look for ripe, red berries for best results.
- Optional glaze (1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tablespoons milk): Drizzle it over the top for a dreamy, decorative finish that adds just a touch more sweetness.
How to Make Strawberry Pie Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the sides so lifting out the bars later is a breeze. This little hack ensures easy removal and keeps your bars looking neat.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy—this usually takes a couple of minutes and a little elbow grease (or your trusty mixer). Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is thoroughly combined and oh-so-creamy.
Step 3: Add Flour and Salt
Next, add the flour and salt to the bowl. Mix gently until just combined, forming a soft and slightly sticky dough. You’re aiming for something easily pressed but not too wet; overmixing could make the bars tough, so keep it light!
Step 4: Create the Crust and Reserve Some Dough
Scoop out about 1 cup of this dough and set it aside for later. Then press the rest evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, making sure to reach all the corners. This thick, buttery layer is the cozy foundation for your Strawberry Pie Bars.
Step 5: Add the Strawberry Layers
Spread the strawberry preserves or jam over the crust so every bite gets a ribbon of that luscious fruit. Scatter the diced fresh strawberries evenly on top; they’ll bake down into juicy gems as the bars cook, magnifying the berry flavor.
Step 6: Crumble and Bake
Take the reserved cup of dough and crumble it in small bits over the strawberry layer, covering as much as possible without pressing it down. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the bars are bubbling and lightly golden on top. Your kitchen will fill with the happiest scent!
Step 7: Cool, Glaze, and Slice
Once out of the oven, let the bars cool completely in the pan—this helps them firm up for clean slices. For the optional glaze, simply whisk together powdered sugar and just enough milk until you have a smooth drizzle. Zigzag it generously over the top before cutting the bars into perfect squares.
How to Serve Strawberry Pie Bars
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar is a classic touch, but a swirl of that simple glaze takes presentation (and taste) to another level. For a pop of color and a nod to what’s inside, add fresh strawberry slices or even a sprig of mint right before serving.
Side Dishes
Keep the focus on the Strawberry Pie Bars by offering simple sides: think vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, or a handful of fresh berries. If you’re serving brunch, these bars pair beautifully with a hot mug of coffee or a chilled icy lemonade.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange squares on a pretty tiered platter with wax paper in between layers. For picnics or potlucks, individually wrap bars in parchment and tie with twine for a playful, grab-and-go touch. You can even stack minis for a show-stopping dessert centerpiece!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra Strawberry Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate up to 5 days for extra freshness. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
These bars freeze like a dream! Once fully cooled and sliced, layer them between sheets of parchment in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
While Strawberry Pie Bars are delicious chilled or at room temperature, you can gently warm refrigerated or thawed bars in a low 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This refreshes the crust and makes the filling extra luscious—especially good if you want to pair with ice cream!
FAQs
Can I use other types of jam or preserves?
Absolutely! Raspberry, blueberry, or even mixed berry jam makes a delightful twist. Just be sure to use the same quantity and, if desired, add a drop of lemon juice for a tangy kick.
Do I have to use fresh strawberries?
Fresh strawberries add wonderful texture and brightness, but you can substitute with thawed frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just pat them dry first to avoid excess moisture.
How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Letting the bars cool completely in the pan is key—this sets the structure. Also, make sure your preserves aren’t too runny; thicker jam spreads are ideal for a sturdy, sliceable bar.
What’s the best way to cut neat squares?
For perfectly clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it with a damp cloth between slices. Chilling the bars before cutting helps them hold their shape and makes portioning a breeze.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The bars may be slightly more delicate but will still taste fabulous with all the fruity goodness you crave.
Final Thoughts
Making a batch of Strawberry Pie Bars is like bottling up the sweetest days of summer. Whether you share them at a picnic, pack them for a road trip, or simply treat yourself at home, they’re certain to spread smiles. Don’t hesitate—gather those beautiful strawberries and treat yourself to a slice of sunshine!
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Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Strawberry Pie Bars that boast a buttery crust, sweet strawberry filling, and optional glaze. Perfect for a summer dessert or anytime treat!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt.
For the Filling:
1 1/2 cups strawberry preserves or jam, 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (diced).
For the Optional Glaze:
1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix dry ingredients: Add the flour and salt, and mix until a soft dough forms. Reserve 1 cup of dough for the topping.
- Prepare crust: Press the remaining dough into the pan, spread strawberry preserves, top with diced strawberries, and crumble reserved dough on top.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool.
- Make glaze: Whisk powdered sugar and milk, then drizzle over bars before slicing.
Notes
- You can substitute strawberry jam with raspberry or blueberry.
- For a tangier flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the jam.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
