Introduction to Strawberry Lemon Blondies
When you’re looking for a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent, strawberry lemon blondies are the perfect treat! These delightful bars combine the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the zesty brightness of lemon, creating a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Unlike traditional brownies, blondies offer a chewy texture and buttery base, making them an excellent canvas for fruity additions.
Imagine biting into a warm blondie, with pockets of juicy strawberries and a hint of lemon zest bursting with flavor. They’re ideal for summer picnics, cozy gatherings, or a simple afternoon snack. Plus, with just eight ingredients and one bowl required, whipping up a batch is quick and hassle-free. As a bonus, they're a great way to use up any surplus strawberries you might have!
Whether you're serving them to friends or treating yourself after a long day, strawberry lemon blondies are sure to impress. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat, or enjoy them with a refreshing glass of lemonade. Looking for more inspiration on combining strawberries and lemons? Check out this in-depth guide on using fresh fruits in baking!
Ingredients for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
When it comes to whipping up the perfect batch of strawberry lemon blondies, less is definitely more! With just 8 simple ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that's both fruity and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries: Fresh, juicy strawberries are the star of the show, adding sweetness and texture.
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice: This will enhance the strawberry flavor and give your blondies a refreshing zing.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Make sure it's melted and cooled to room temperature to achieve that perfect, chewy consistency.
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons light brown sugar: The brown sugar adds a rich caramel flavor that complements the fruit beautifully.
- 1 large egg and 1 large egg yolk: Using both ensures a tender, moist blondie.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Just a bit of zest brings that vibrant lemon flavor without overpowering.
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: For that essential structure—don’t forget to measure properly! (Consider using this guide on proper flour measurement for best results.)
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder: This will give your blondies a nice lift.
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt: It balances and enhances all the flavors.
These ingredients come together effortlessly in one bowl, making your baking experience as enjoyable as the final treat! Enjoy whipping up these strawberry lemon blondies for any occasion!
Preparing Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Making strawberry lemon blondies is not only a fun baking experience but also an opportunity to create something deliciously unique! With just a handful of ingredients, you'll discover how easy and rewarding it is to whip up a batch of these fruity treats. Let's dive into the step-by-step process to get you on your way to baking success!
Gather your equipment
Before you start mixing, make sure you have your kitchen essentials ready. You'll need:
- An 8x8 inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper (for easy removal)
- Mixing bowls (a medium bowl for wet ingredients and a small one for strawberries)
- Whisk and rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Having your tools on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable. With a clean workspace, you're already setting the stage for success!
Mix the strawberries and lemon juice
Begin by preparing the star of our strawberry lemon blondies—the strawberries! In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of diced fresh strawberries with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice. Toss them gently to coat the strawberries in the juice, enhancing their flavor and adding moisture. This mixture will be folded into the blondie batter later on.
If you're curious about health benefits, strawberries are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. This makes happy, healthy blondies that satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt!
Combine the wet ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, and ½ cup + 2 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar. The butter should be at room temperature to ensure it combines smoothly with the sugar. Once the mixture is creamy, incorporate 1 large egg and 1 egg yolk, whisking until everything is homogenous.
This is where the magic happens—the combination of butter and sugar creates a lovely sweet base for your strawberry lemon blondies.
Incorporate the dry ingredients
Now it’s time to bring the dry ingredients into the mix! Gradually fold in 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, along with ¼ teaspoon of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Use a rubber spatula for this step to keep the batter light and fluffy. Be careful not to overmix; just blend until the dry ingredients are incorporated and no flour streaks remain.
Spread the batter and add toppings
Once combined, pour the blondie batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it out with your spatula. Arrange a few extra strawberry slices on top for a beautiful finishing touch. This creative addition not only looks enticing but also adds a burst of flavor with every bite!
Bake to perfection
Pop your baking pan into a preheated oven set to 350°F (180°C). Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
After baking, allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into 20 squares. Enjoy your delightful strawberry lemon blondies as a charming afternoon treat, or share them with friends at your next gathering!
With easy preparation steps and a burst of fresh flavor, these blondies are bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Happy baking!
Variations on Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Strawberry Lemon Pudding Blondies
For a delightful twist, try making strawberry lemon pudding blondies. Simply add a box of instant lemon pudding mix to the batter for an extra layer of tangy flavor and moisture. The pudding creates a soft texture that is downright irresistible. Plus, you can enhance the flavor by incorporating a bit of lemon extract. These blondies are perfect for a summer picnic or a cozy gathering with friends.
Lemon Blueberry Blondies
If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the strawberries for fresh blueberries! The tartness of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries create a deliciously fruity blend in these lemon blueberry blondies. Each bite bursts with flavor and will surely impress your guests. If you need other fruity options, consider adding other berries or even some white chocolate chips for a creamier texture!
These variations let you enjoy the essence of strawberry lemon blondies in new and exciting ways. Which one will you try first?
Cooking Notes for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Measuring Dry Ingredients Properly
When it comes to making strawberry lemon blondies, accuracy in measuring your dry ingredients is crucial for the perfect texture. Instead of scooping flour directly with a measuring cup, try the spoon-level method. Fluff the flour in its container, scoop it gently into your measuring cup, and then level it off with a knife. For precision, consider using a kitchen scale — it’s a game-changer for consistent baking results.
Choosing the Right Baking Pan
The type of pan you use can significantly impact your blondies. If you're using a dark or non-stick pan, reduce the baking temperature to 325°F to avoid over-browning. A standard 8x8 square pan is ideal for these blondies, allowing them to cook evenly. Trust me, the right pan makes all the difference!
For additional tips on baking pan choices, feel free to check out this baking guide.
Serving suggestions for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Perfect pairings with beverages
When indulging in these delightful strawberry lemon blondies, consider pairing them with a refreshing beverage that complements their fruity notes. A chilled lemonade enhances the sunny flavors, while herbal iced tea, like chamomile or mint, offers a soothing contrast. For something adventurous, try a sparkly mocktail made from sparkling water, a splash of lemon juice, and muddled strawberries. These drinks balance the sweetness, making each bite feel like a mini-vacation.
Creative presentation ideas
Presentation can elevate the experience of enjoying your strawberry lemon blondies. For a charming display, serve them on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh strawberry slices and sprigs of mint. Consider stacking them in a cute, clear glass jar for a delightful treat on-the-go. Drizzling a bit of lemon glaze over the top can add a professional touch, while also bringing extra zing! Your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness, and you’ll enjoy the compliments that follow.
Time details for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Preparation time
Get your strawberry lemon blondies rolling with a quick prep session! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix everything together.
Baking time
Pop those blondies into the oven and let them bake for 20-30 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary based on your oven and baking pan.
Total time
In just 35-45 minutes, you can have these delightful strawberry lemon blondies ready to cool down. After that, they’ll be perfect for slicing and enjoying!
Want a full breakdown of the recipe? Don’t forget to check the official page for strawberry lemon blondies for all the details.
Nutritional Information for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
When you're enjoying a strawberry lemon blondie, it's always helpful to know the nutritional breakdown. Here’s a quick glance at the key components to keep in mind while indulging in this delightful treat:
Calories
Each strawberry lemon blondie contains approximately 120 calories, making it a sweet option for a moderate dessert.
Protein
These blondies pack about 2 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the egg and the addition of all-purpose flour.
Sodium
With only 100 milligrams of sodium per blondie, these treats are a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet cravings without overwhelming your daily intake.
These bars not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also strike a balance in nutrition. Enjoy your baking and feel good about what you're treating yourself to! For more health-focused dessert ideas, check out the USDA's Dietary Guidelines.
FAQs about Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Can I substitute frozen strawberries?
Absolutely! While fresh strawberries are ideal for that juicy, vibrant flavor, you can use frozen strawberries in your strawberry lemon blondies if needed. Just be mindful that they may release more moisture during baking. To mitigate this, you can thaw them and pat them dry with a towel before adding them to the batter. This keeps your blondies from getting too wet and ensures that chewy texture we crave!
How should I store the blondies?
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, you can refrigerate them for about a week. For extended storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap each blondie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months!
What’s the best way to ensure they’re chewy?
For that perfect chewy texture in your strawberry lemon blondies, avoid overmixing your batter once you add the flour—mix until just combined! Additionally, using room temperature ingredients helps create a smoother batter that bakes evenly. Lastly, be sure to bake them just until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs— overbaking will lead to dryness. Enjoy your baking experience!
Conclusion on Strawberry Lemon Blondies
In conclusion, strawberry lemon blondies epitomize the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them an ideal treat for any day of the week. Their easy preparation allows you to whip them up last minute, while their delightful flavor will leave your friends and family craving more. Share this fruity indulgence with loved ones and create lasting memories!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Equipment
- square 8x8 baking pan
Ingredients
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries plus extra slices for the top
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled to room temperature
- ½ cup light brown sugar packed
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar packed
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk room temperature
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest about ¼ lemon zested
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour See notes below for measuring
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare a square 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper on all sides, then preheat the oven to 350F/180C.
- In a small bowl, combine the diced strawberries and lemon juice and set them aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the room temperature melted butter, lemon zest, and light brown sugar until combined.
- Whisk in the egg and egg yolk until combined.
- Use a rubber spatula to fold in the flour, baking powder, salt, and strawberries until just combined. Then evenly spread the blondie batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. Press a few thinly sliced strawberries on top.
- Bake the blondies for 20-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Let the pan cool completely on a wire rack, then cut into 20 bars.
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