Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the delightful combination of strawberries and lemons! It’s like sunshine and sweetness all rolled into one. I first made these Strawberry Lemon Blondies for a summer picnic, and they were a total hit! The tangy lemon pairs perfectly with the juicy strawberries, creating a moist and flavorful blondie that’s just bursting with flavor. Every bite takes me back to those sunny days spent outdoors, laughing with friends and indulging in sweet treats. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be dreaming up excuses to whip them up again and again!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted – This adds richness and moisture to your blondies.
- 2 cups brown sugar – For that deep, caramel-like sweetness that makes these blondies irresistible.
- 2 large eggs – They help bind everything together and create a lovely texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the strawberries and lemon.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our blondies, giving them that perfect structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – This is our leavening agent to help the blondies rise just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – A little salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped – The star of the show! Make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest – This adds a bright, zesty flavor that elevates the entire treat.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice – For that tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries.
How to Prepare Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making these delicious Strawberry Lemon Blondies! I promise, the process is super straightforward, and you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering treat. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a sweet, tangy delight in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important because you want the blondies to bake evenly.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like using butter for greasing, but cooking spray works too!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Mix them together until it’s well blended and smooth.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix these in thoroughly until everything is combined beautifully.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps ensure there are no lumps in your dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix, or your blondies might turn out tough!
- Now, fold in the chopped strawberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Make sure they’re evenly distributed for that burst of flavor in every bite!
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. It should look delicious already!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that’s a perfect balance of strawberries and lemons.
- Quick and easy preparation—whip these up in just 15 minutes of prep time!
- Perfectly moist and chewy texture that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
- Stunningly vibrant color makes for an eye-catching dessert at any gathering.
- Great for sharing at picnics, parties, or simply enjoying at home with family.
- Customizable—feel free to add your favorite nuts or other fruits for a unique twist!
- Easy to cut into squares, making them a convenient treat for on-the-go snacking.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about how to make your Strawberry Lemon Blondies the absolute best they can be! I’ve got a few little tricks up my sleeve that will ensure they turn out perfectly every time.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if they’re done. Insert it into the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re golden! If it’s wet with batter, they need a bit more time.
- Let them cool: Patience is key! Let the blondies cool completely before cutting. This helps them set up nicely and keeps them from crumbling apart when you slice.
- Fresh ingredients: Use the freshest strawberries and lemons you can find. The flavor really shines when the ingredients are at their best!
- Mix gently: When you’re folding in the strawberries, lemon zest, and juice, do it gently. You want to avoid overmixing the batter to keep those blondies nice and tender.
- Add a pinch of spice: For a little extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. It adds a lovely warmth that rounds out the sweetness.
- Experiment with toppings: Try serving the blondies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It takes these treats to a whole new level of deliciousness!
With these tips, I’m sure you’ll impress everyone with your baking skills. Happy baking!
Variations
One of the best things about these Strawberry Lemon Blondies is how versatile they are! If you’re feeling a bit adventurous or just want to switch things up, here are some fun variations to inspire your kitchen creativity:
- Berry Medley: Swap out the strawberries for a mix of your favorite berries, like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. Each berry brings its own unique flavor to the blondies!
- Citrus Twist: Add in some orange zest along with the lemon zest for an extra citrusy kick. The combination of lemon and orange is simply delightful!
- Nutty Goodness: Fold in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and richness. They complement the soft texture of the blondies beautifully.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted white or dark chocolate over the top once they’re cooled. It adds a decadent touch that pairs perfectly with the fruity flavors.
- Peachy Keen: During the summer, try using fresh peaches instead of strawberries. The juicy sweetness of peaches with lemon is pure bliss!
- Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) and use a plant-based butter for a delicious vegan twist.
- Spicy Kick: For a unique flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the batter. The subtle heat contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tangy flavors.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature version of Strawberry Lemon Blondies! The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to hear what combinations you come up with!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked up a batch of these scrumptious Strawberry Lemon Blondies, it’s time to think about how to serve them! Trust me, they’re fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to a whole new level. Here are some delightful ideas to consider:
- Refreshing Beverages: Serve your blondies with a tall glass of iced lemonade or sweet tea. The citrusy flavors in the drink perfectly complement the tangy lemon in the blondies!
- Creamy Toppings: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top makes for a heavenly treat. The creaminess balances out the sweet and tangy flavors beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: Pair them with a fresh fruit salad for a light and refreshing side. You could even toss in some strawberries and citrus fruits to echo the flavors in the blondies!
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea. The cozy warmth of the drink enhances the buttery richness of the blondies.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for a decadent touch. The sweet chocolate contrasts wonderfully with the fruity notes.
- Cheese Platter: For a unique twist, serve them alongside a cheese platter featuring soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The creaminess of the cheese pairs surprisingly well with the fruity blondies!
Each of these combinations brings out different aspects of your Strawberry Lemon Blondies, making for a delightful dessert spread. So, go ahead and get creative with your serving choices—you’ll impress everyone at the table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve whipped up these delicious Strawberry Lemon Blondies, you might be wondering how to keep them fresh and tasty! Storing them properly is key to maintaining their wonderful flavor and texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Storing: Allow the blondies to cool completely before storing. Once they’re cool, cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container. They can last up to 5 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week.
- Freezing: Want to save some for later? You can freeze your blondies! Just wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating: If you prefer your blondies warm (who doesn’t?), simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. They’ll be soft and gooey again in no time! Just be careful not to overheat them, as they can dry out quickly.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor your Strawberry Lemon Blondies whenever the craving strikes! Enjoy every last bite!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying your Strawberry Lemon Blondies, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in! Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s an estimated breakdown for each blondie:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
With this delicious treat, you can enjoy a balanced dessert that brings together flavors you love. So, feel free to indulge a little and savor every bite of your Strawberry Lemon Blondies!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Absolutely! If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen ones work great too. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
How do I know when my blondies are done baking? A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out with wet batter, they need a bit more time in the oven. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a little while cooling!
Can I make these blondies ahead of time? Yes, you can! These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are perfect for making a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay delicious!
What if I don’t have lemon juice? If you’re out of lemon juice, you can substitute it with an equal amount of apple cider vinegar. It won’t have the same flavor, but it will still add the necessary tang to the blondies!
Can I double the recipe? Of course! If you want to make a larger batch, just double all the ingredients and use a bigger baking pan. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as they may need a little longer to cook through!
Print
Strawberry Lemon Blondies: 7 Reasons You’ll Love Them
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 blondies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious strawberry lemon blondies that are sweet and tangy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar.
- Add eggs and vanilla, mix well.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Fold in strawberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Try using frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available.
- Can be served with whipped cream on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 blondie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Strawberry Lemon Blondies, dessert, blondies, baking