Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Whenever I think of spring, I can’t help but crave the vibrant flavors of Strawberry Lemon Blondies. There’s something so magical about the combination of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon, isn’t there? It reminds me of sunny days, picnics in the park, and the joy of sharing sweet treats with loved ones. I remember the first time I made these blondies; the kitchen was filled with a sweet, tangy aroma that invited everyone to gather around. They’re not just dessert; they’re a celebration of the season, a treat that brings smiles and happiness. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into baking these scrumptious blondies that will surely brighten your day!

Ingredients Overview for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

When it comes to baking Strawberry Lemon Blondies, each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect flavor and texture. The use of fresh, vibrant ingredients not only enhances the taste but also brings a touch of sunshine to your kitchen. Key players include fruity strawberries, zesty lemon, and rich butter, all combining to create a delightful treat.

• 1 cup salted butter (softened) – The base for a rich and creamy texture that holds everything together.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a nice golden color.
• ¾ cup light brown sugar – Brings a hint of caramel flavor and moisture.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and contributes to the overall structure.
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice – Infuses the blondies with a zesty brightness.
• 1 lemon zest (about ½ teaspoon) – Enhances the lemon flavor for added depth.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and richness to the flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract – Intensifies the lemon aroma and taste.
• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the blondies.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps create a light and fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch – Adds chewiness and tenderness to each bite.
• 1 cup strawberries (diced) – The star ingredient that brings freshness and sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract – Another layer of lemon flavor.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – Used for the glaze to add sweetness and a smooth finish.
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream – Adds richness to the glaze.
• 1 to 2 drops red food coloring – Optional, to brighten the appearance of the glaze.

How to Prepare Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Getting started on Strawberry Lemon Blondies is a breeze! Let’s walk through the steps together, making it a fun experience. You’ll see how easy it is to combine the ingredients and create a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have delicious blondies in no time!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. It’s essential to start with a properly heated oven to ensure even baking. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 glass baking dish and line it with parchment paper. This will make it easy to remove the blondies once they’re baked.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar for about 1 to 2 minutes. You’re aiming for a light and fluffy texture here. Don’t be afraid to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is well combined.
3. Add the eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon extract to the bowl. Beat everything together on medium-high speed for about 3 to 4 minutes. The mixture may look a bit separated at first, but it will come together into a light and fluffy batter.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch. This mixture will provide structure and lift to your blondies.
5. Carefully add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this could result in tough blondies.
6. Now, gently fold in the diced strawberries until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. You want to see those beautiful pieces of fruit in every bite!
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring it’s level for even baking.
8. Bake the blondies in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. They are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
9. While your blondies are baking, whisk together the glaze ingredients: powdered sugar and heavy cream. If you want, add a drop or two of red food coloring to give it a cheerful hue.
10. Once the blondies are out of the oven, let them cool in the baking dish for a few minutes before spreading the glaze over the warm blondies. This will allow the glaze to seep into the blondies, adding extra sweetness.
11. After glazing, let the blondies cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you might find they disappear quickly!

Ways to Customize

The beauty of Strawberry Lemon Blondies is their versatility. Here are some fun tips to take these blondies to the next level:

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Freezing: These blondies freeze well! Cut them into squares, wrap them tightly, and store them in the freezer for up to three months.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent treat.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a different twist.
• Glaze Alternatives: You can use a simple lemon glaze made with lemon juice and powdered sugar for a brighter flavor.
• Add-Ins: Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.

Serving Ideas for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

When it comes to serving your delightful Strawberry Lemon Blondies, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Picnic Treats: These blondies make for the perfect picnic dessert. Pack them in a container and enjoy them outdoors with friends and family.
• Brunch Delight: They can easily be served at brunch parties. Pair them with fresh fruit and coffee for a wonderful start to the day.
• Sweet Snack: Enjoy them as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. The citrus flavor pairs beautifully with both.
• Gift Giving: Wrap them up in a decorative box as gifts for friends or neighbors. Everyone loves a homemade treat!
• Seasonal Celebration: Perfect for any spring or summer gatherings, these blondies can become a staple at your holiday celebrations.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer preservation, consider freezing them.

FAQ

Conclusion

Strawberry Lemon Blondies offer a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Their chewy texture and vibrant taste make them a favorite for gatherings, celebrations, or simply a cozy afternoon treat. I encourage you to try baking these blondies; they might just become your new go-to dessert! Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share with friends and family.

Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Craving something sweet and tangy? These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful treat that combines juicy strawberries and zesty lemon in a chewy, moist dessert. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, they are incredibly easy to make and will surely impress your guests. Bake these blondies tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 16 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Whisk
• Oven
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup salted butter softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 lemon zest (about ½ teaspoon)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 cup diced strawberries
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 to 2 drops red food coloring

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. It's essential to start with a properly heated oven to ensure even baking. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 glass baking dish and line it with parchment paper. This will make it easy to remove the blondies once they’re baked.
• In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar for about 1 to 2 minutes. You’re aiming for a light and fluffy texture here. Don’t be afraid to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is well combined.
• Add the eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon extract to the bowl. Beat everything together on medium-high speed for about 3 to 4 minutes. The mixture may look a bit separated at first, but it will come together into a light and fluffy batter.
• In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch. This mixture will provide structure and lift to your blondies.
• Carefully add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this could result in tough blondies.
• Now, gently fold in the diced strawberries until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. You want to see those beautiful pieces of fruit in every bite!
• Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring it’s level for even baking.
• Bake the blondies in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. They are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
• While your blondies are baking, whisk together the glaze ingredients: powdered sugar and heavy cream. If you want, add a drop or two of red food coloring to give it a cheerful hue.
• Once the blondies are out of the oven, let them cool in the baking dish for a few minutes before spreading the glaze over the warm blondies. This will allow the glaze to seep into the blondies, adding extra sweetness.
• After glazing, let the blondies cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you might find they disappear quickly!

Notes

• Fudgy Center: If you like a more fudgy texture in the center, you can decrease the flour by ¼ cup.
• Room Temperature: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature so that they will incorporate well and your batter comes out with the correct consistency.
• Avoid Overmixing: Do not overmix your batter, or you may end up with crumbly bars.
• Flatten the Top: Make sure to take the time to flatten the top of the batter so that your bars come out flat on the top. If the batter is sticking to your spoon, spray it with cooking spray to make it easier to flatten the batter.

Keyword easy blondies recipe, Lemon Desserts, spring desserts, strawberry lemon blondies

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.