Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Introduction

Strawberry Lemon Blondies are the perfect combination of tangy lemon and sweet, juicy strawberries in a soft, chewy bar. With a light lemon flavor throughout and bursts of fresh strawberry in every bite, these blondies offer a refreshing twist on the traditional brownie. They’re easy to make, beautifully colorful, and perfect for a spring or summer treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a fruity dessert, these blondies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

I first made these blondies when I was looking for a dessert that felt both light and indulgent, and they exceeded my expectations. The kitchen smelled amazing as the lemon and strawberry aromas filled the air, and the first bite was a perfect balance of flavors. What I love most is how simple they are to prepare, yet they look so impressive once baked. You can serve them as they are, or dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

These blondies are a great way to showcase fresh strawberries, and their chewy texture makes them even more irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a picnic, a family gathering, or just because, they’re bound to be enjoyed by everyone who tries them.

Perfect for:

• Summer picnics and BBQs
• Afternoon tea or coffee
• Potlucks or family gatherings
• A sweet and refreshing dessert

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Lemon Blondies

• Fruity and Refreshing: The combination of fresh strawberries and lemon zest gives these blondies a light, summery flavor that’s irresistible.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These blondies are dense yet soft, offering a perfect balance of chewy and tender.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it a breeze to whip up any time you need a dessert.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe by adding a variety of mix-ins like white chocolate chips or even more fruit.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 16 blondies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180 calories

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Strawberry Lemon Blondies:

Blondies:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced into small pieces
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Blondie Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the Eggs and Flavors: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Fold in the Strawberries and Optional White Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the diced strawberries and white chocolate chips, being careful not to overmix to avoid mushy strawberries.

Bake the Blondies:

7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool: Let the blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before glazing and slicing.

Make the Glaze:

9. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
10. Glaze the Blondies: Once the blondies have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula if desired.

How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Blondies

• As a Standalone Treat: These blondies are perfect on their own, with a sweet and tart flavor profile that requires no accompaniment.
• With Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or a fruit salad for an extra fruity burst.
• With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: These blondies pair wonderfully with your favorite hot beverage, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Variations for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

1. Strawberry Lemon Coconut Blondies: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
2. Strawberry Lemon White Chocolate Blondies: Stir in chunks of white chocolate to complement the fruity flavors.
3. Strawberry Lemon Almond Blondies: Add almond extract and chopped almonds for a nutty flavor.
4. Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake Blondies: Swirl in a layer of cream cheese for a rich, cheesecake-like texture.
5. Strawberry Lemon Poppy Seed Blondies: Incorporate poppy seeds for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
6. Strawberry Lemon Ricotta Blondies: Replace some butter with ricotta cheese for a softer, more cake-like consistency.
7. Strawberry Lemon Lavender Blondies: Infuse the batter with dried lavender for a fragrant, floral note.
8. Strawberry Lemon Pistachio Blondies: Add crushed pistachios for a salty crunch that pairs nicely with the sweetness of the strawberries and lemon.
9. Strawberry Lemon Ginger Blondies: Add fresh ginger or ground ginger for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
10. Strawberry Lemon Brown Butter Blondies: Use browned butter for a nutty, caramelized flavor that enhances the fruity tang of lemon and strawberries.

Storage Tips for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

• Cool Completely: Allow your blondies to cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
• Store in an Airtight Container: Use an airtight container to help keep the blondies moist and fresh for a longer period.
• Refrigerate for Freshness: If you want to keep them fresh for up to a week, store them in the refrigerator.
• Room Temperature Storage: If you’re planning to consume them within 2-3 days, it’s fine to keep them at room temperature in an airtight container.
• Layer with Parchment Paper: If stacking your blondies, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their shape.
• Freeze for Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, freeze the blondies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Wrap Individually: Wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap before storing for better preservation and convenience.
• Avoid Humidity: Keep them away from humid environments, as moisture can make the blondies soggy.
• Use a Cake Dome: For a more decorative touch, store the blondies in a cake dome if you’re serving them at a gathering.
• Bring to Room Temperature Before Serving: If refrigerated or frozen, allow the blondies to return to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Special Equipment for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

• 9×13-inch Baking Pan – A standard size to bake your blondies evenly.
• Parchment Paper – For lining the pan to prevent sticking and for easy removal.
• Mixing Bowls – Various sizes for mixing ingredients.
• Mixer or Hand Mixer – To easily cream the butter and sugar.
• Measuring Cups – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Measuring Spoons – For small ingredient measurements like baking powder and vanilla extract.
• Zester – For grating the lemon zest.
• Juicer – To extract fresh lemon juice.
• Spatula – For scraping down the sides of the bowl and mixing.
• Cooling Rack – To cool the blondies after baking for even air circulation.

Frequently Asked Questions for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

1. What are Strawberry Lemon Blondies? Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a sweet, tangy dessert made with a blondie base, fresh strawberries, and a zesty lemon flavor.
2. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe? Yes, frozen strawberries can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter.
3. How do I store Strawberry Lemon Blondies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week.
4. Can I make these blondies ahead of time? Yes, you can make them up to 2 days in advance. Keep them covered and store them at room temperature or in the fridge.
5. Can I substitute lemon juice with lemon extract? Yes, you can use lemon extract, but use a smaller amount (about 1 teaspoon) since it is more concentrated than fresh lemon juice.
6. Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries? Yes, you can substitute with raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different flavor profile.
7. Do I need to chill the batter before baking? No, the batter can go straight into the pan without chilling, which makes this recipe quick and easy.
8. Can I add white chocolate chips to the blondies? Yes, white chocolate chips would pair nicely with the strawberry and lemon flavors.
9. How do I know when the blondies are done baking? Insert a toothpick into the center of the blondies; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
10. Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful, refreshing treat that combines the bright flavors of lemon with sweet, juicy strawberries. These blondies are the perfect dessert for any occasion, from a summer picnic to a cozy afternoon at home. With their chewy texture, zesty lemon glaze, and fruity bursts, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy the fresh flavors of spring with every bite!

This recipe is as easy to prepare as it is delicious, making it a perfect choice for everything from casual get-togethers to quiet moments of indulgence. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or treating yourself, these strawberry lemon blondies will bring a burst of sunshine to your day.

I’d love to see how your Strawberry Lemon Blondies turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!