Name: Strawberries and Cream Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (at room temperature); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 8 ounces Cream Cheese (at room temperature); 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (melted); 1.5 cups Chopped Strawberries

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Every summer, as the temperature rises, I find myself craving something sweet, refreshing, and just a little indulgent. That’s when I turn to my favorite treat: Strawberries and Cream Bars. It’s a delightful combination of buttery crust, luscious cream cheese topping, and fresh, juicy strawberries. This recipe takes me back to my childhood, spending lazy afternoons outdoors, savoring every bite while the sun shines. It’s perfect for picnics, backyard barbecues, or just a simple dessert at home. You can count on these bars to bring smiles to everyone around.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Strawberries and Cream Bars Is So Good

1. Summer Delight

One of the main reasons I adore Strawberries and Cream Bars is their refreshing flavor. The combination of sweet strawberries and creamy filling creates a perfect balance that truly embodies the essence of summer. Every bite feels like a mini-vacation!

2. Easy to Make

Despite their impressive appearance, these bars are surprisingly easy to whip up. With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious dessert. It’s a great recipe to introduce kids to baking, too!

3. Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you’re throwing a summer party, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a casual weeknight treat, Strawberries and Cream Bars fit right in. They’re easy to slice and serve, making them ideal for gatherings.

4. Make Ahead and Chill

One of the best features of this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time. The bars need some chill time in the fridge, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can prepare them the day before and simply slice and serve when you’re ready.

5. Eye-Catching Presentation

The vibrant red of the strawberries against the creamy white topping makes these bars not only tasty but also visually stunning. They’re sure to impress your guests and make your dessert table pop!

6. Customizable Toppings

While the classic version is fantastic, you can easily customize these bars. Consider adding a drizzle of chocolate, a sprinkle of nuts, or even a layer of jam for a unique twist!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Strawberries and Cream Bars

The ingredients for Strawberries and Cream Bars are simple yet essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Each component plays a vital role in creating a delicious treat that everyone will love. Let’s break down the key players:

1 cup salted butter at room temperature: This is the foundation of the crust, providing a rich and buttery flavor.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is key in this recipe, enhancing the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aromatic quality to the bars.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the crust, giving it structure.
8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature: This is the star of the topping, creating a smooth and creamy layer.
1 cup white chocolate chips melted: These add a deliciously sweet and creamy dimension to the topping.
1 1/2 cups chopped strawberries: Fresh and juicy, they bring a burst of flavor and color.

Preparation Steps for Strawberries and Cream Bars

Making Strawberries and Cream Bars is a straightforward process that brings joy to your kitchen. Let’s dive into the steps that will transform simple ingredients into a stunning dessert!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This is crucial for getting the crust just right, ensuring it bakes evenly.
Line a 7 x 11-inch baking dish with foil, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, mix the butter, sugar, and vanilla extract on medium speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is essential for incorporating air into the mixture, resulting in a tender crust.
Turn the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough just comes together. It should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust. It’s important to pack it down firmly for even baking.
Bake the crust for 30 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden brown. This step gives the bars a delightful texture.
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. This cooling time is important before adding the creamy topping.
To prepare the topping, in a clean bowl of a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until smooth. This should only take about a minute, ensuring a creamy consistency.
Slowly beat in the melted white chocolate chips, mixing on medium speed until everything is smooth and well incorporated. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed!
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust, creating a smooth layer.
Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the topping set and makes it easier to cut.
When ready to serve, spread the chopped strawberries evenly on top of the cream cheese layer, adding a burst of freshness.
Finally, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors you’ve created!
Note: If using unsalted butter, add ¼ teaspoon salt to the bars for balance. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Freshness: Always use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy blending.
Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before adding the topping for perfect layers.
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour to keep the crust tender.

Substitutions and Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Strawberries and Cream Bars turn out perfectly:

Storage: Keep your bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.
Variations: Try using different berries like raspberries or blueberries for a fun twist.
Serving: Consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

What to Pair With Strawberries and Cream Bars

Light Salad: Pair your bars with a refreshing green salad for a balanced meal.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the bars perfectly.
Picnic Treat: These bars are great for summer picnics, serving as a sweet finish to your meal.
Brunch Option: Serve with coffee or tea at your next brunch gathering.
Seasonal Fruits: Add a side of seasonal fruits to enhance the summer theme.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but it’s best to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture in the bars. Fresh strawberries will yield a firmer texture and vibrant flavor, but frozen ones can work in a pinch.

Store your Strawberries and Cream Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to two days, though they’re usually gone much faster! If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to two months.

If you’re looking for a substitute for cream cheese, you could try mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt. Both will provide a creamy texture, but keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly. Always opt for full-fat versions for the best results.

Definitely! To make gluten-free Strawberries and Cream Bars, simply use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Make sure to check that all your other ingredients, like the baking powder, are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Strawberries and Cream Bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer with each bite. Their refreshing combination of flavors and textures makes them a must-try for any dessert lover. I encourage you to whip up a batch and enjoy the smiles they bring to your family and friends!