Jump to Recipe Print RecipeSummer is the season of sun-soaked moments and sweet indulgences, and what better way to celebrate than with my Strawberry Shortcake Bars? These delightful treats layer luscious, fresh strawberries between a soft, buttery shortcake that’s both easy to make and even easier to eat. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply in need of a refreshing dessert, these bars are a perfect choice; they’re quick to prepare and make an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering. Plus, they’re easily customizable, allowing you to swap in your favorite fruits or toppings for a playful twist. Are you ready to dive into this summer delight that might just become your new go-to dessert? Why Make Strawberry Shortcake Bars? Simplicity at Its Best: With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll whip up a delightful dessert in no time. Fresh Fruit Delight: Juicy strawberries shine in this recipe, adding both color and flavor that’s synonymous with summer. Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap strawberries for your favorite berries or even add a touch of lemon zest for extra zing! Perfect for Sharing: These bars are not only visually stunning but also easily portable, making them an ideal treat for BBQs or picnics. Crowd-Pleasing Taste: With their rich buttery flavor and sweet strawberry filling, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering! If you want more sweet ideas, check out our classic dessert recipes. Strawberry Shortcake Bars Ingredients For the Shortcake Base • Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g) – Provides moisture and richness; use room temperature for best results. • Granulated sugar (1 cup / 200g) – Adds sweetness and helps create a fluffy texture; brown sugar can be substituted for a deeper flavor. • Large eggs (2) – Binds the ingredients together; ensure they’re at room temperature for a smoother batter. • Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Adds flavor depth; pure vanilla offers the best taste, but imitation can be used in a pinch. • All-purpose flour (2 cups / 250g) – Forms the base structure; a gluten-free flour blend can be substituted. • Baking powder (1 tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent for a lighter texture. • Salt (¼ tsp) – Enhances overall flavor. For the Strawberry Filling • Fresh strawberries (2 cups, chopped) – Provides the juicy filling; frozen strawberries can be used if properly thawed and drained. • Granulated sugar (1 tbsp, optional) – For sweetening berries, depending on their sweetness; particularly useful if using less ripe strawberries. • Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Helps thicken and stabilize the strawberry filling, ensuring it holds together beautifully. For Topping (optional) • Whipped cream or stabilized whipped topping – A delightful addition for serving, making your bars extra indulgent. • White chocolate drizzle or powdered sugar – Optional garnishing for added sweetness and aesthetic appeal; drizzle for a festive finish! These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are truly a treat you won’t want to miss, with fresh flavors that encapsulate the charm of summer! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake Bars Step 1: Prep the Pan Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, prepare a baking pan (9×9 inches works great!) by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it to prevent sticking. This will create a perfect base for your Strawberry Shortcake Bars, ensuring they’re easily removable once baked. Step 2: Make the Shortcake Base In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will take about 3-4 minutes. Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and fully combined. Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients Next, sift in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt into the bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. The dough will be thick, so don’t overmix; this will help maintain the tender texture of your Strawberry Shortcake Bars. Step 4: Layer the Batter Scoop about two-thirds of the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom with a spatula. This thick layer will serve as the delicious base for your Strawberry Shortcake Bars, providing a soft, buttery foundation for the juicy strawberry filling. Step 5: Prepare the Strawberries Take 2 cups of chopped fresh strawberries and place them in a medium bowl. If desired, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Toss gently until the strawberries are well-coated; this will help thicken the filling and enhance their natural sweetness before spreading them over the batter. Step 6: Top with Remaining Dough Carefully drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the strawberries in the pan. It’s okay if it doesn’t cover them completely; this creates a lovely, rustic look on your Strawberry Shortcake Bars. Ensure the batter is distributed evenly across the top for consistent texture and bake evenness. Step 7: Bake Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of buttery shortcake should fill your kitchen, making anticipation grow as you wait for these bars to bake. Step 8: Cool and Top Once baked, remove the Strawberry Shortcake Bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial for easy slicing. When cool, you can slice them into squares and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar to enhance their delightful presentation. Strawberry Shortcake Bars Variations Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations to make your Strawberry Shortcake Bars uniquely yours! Berry Swap: Replace strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a colorful twist. Each berry offers its unique flavor profile that shines through in every bite. Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the shortcake base to infuse a bright zing. This citrusy addition elevates the flavor and pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries. Chocolate Drizzle: Swap the white chocolate drizzle for a rich dark chocolate one for an elegant twist on the classic flavor. The bittersweet notes of dark chocolate complement the strawberries perfectly. Jam Layer: Spread a layer of your favorite berry jam on the shortcake base before adding fresh strawberries for an extra burst of flavor. This simple addition provides a delightful surprise in every bite. Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a non-dairy milk option in your recipe for a delicious dairy-free version. Your bars will still be luscious and satisfying! Nutty Crunch: Fold chopped pecans or almonds into the batter for extra texture and flavor. This crunchy addition contrasts beautifully with the softness of the bars. Spiced Shortcake: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that enhances the comfort of the shortcake. It creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Heated Up: Introduce a dash of cayenne pepper to the sugar sprinkled on top before baking for a subtle kick of heat that will surprise and delight your taste buds! Feel free to explore these variations, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations! If you’re looking for other refreshing summer desserts, check out my Lemon Blueberry Muffins or my delightful Cherry Crisp. Happy baking! Storage Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Bars Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Enjoy their fresh flavor at room temperature, perfect for snacking! Fridge: For longer storage, keep the Strawberry Shortcake Bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them moist and flavorful, ready to delight whenever you crave a treat. Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving, and consider topping with whipped cream for a delicious finish. Reheating: If desired, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste! Expert Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Bars Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing for your Strawberry Shortcake Bars. Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until they’re combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of the tender texture you want. Juicy Strawberries: If your strawberries are particularly juicy, gently pat them dry with paper towels before adding. This prevents excess moisture from making your bars soggy. Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan. Cooling is essential for setting, and chilling them can also help achieve cleaner cuts. Serving Suggestions: For a delightful finish, top with whipped cream or a drizzle of white chocolate just before serving for extra visual appeal and flavor in your Strawberry Shortcake Bars. What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Bars Summer gatherings call for bright flavors and delightful pairings that enhance the sweetness of your dessert. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits will add a refreshing touch, balancing the sweetness of the shortcake bars with vibrant, juicy bites. The combination is both colorful and nutritious. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the soft, buttery shortcake while enhancing the strawberry flavors, making each bite a little taste of heaven. Minty Lemonade: A cool glass of mint lemonade brings a zesty, refreshing contrast to the rich dessert, awakening your taste buds and providing a delightful sip between bites. Grilled Peaches: Juicy grilled peaches drizzled with honey add a warm, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the coldness of the shortcake bars, enhancing the summer experience. Whipped Cream: Nothing says indulgence like freshly whipped cream on top. This light, fluffy addition bursts with creaminess, elevating each slice into a dreamy delight. Almond Biscotti: The crunch of almond biscotti offers a delightful textural contrast to the soft bars, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the fruity goodness. Sparkling Rosé: For a sophisticated touch, a glass of sparkling rosé adds a bubbly, fruity note that pairs well with the sweet strawberries and buttery shortcake, perfect for celebratory moments. Make Ahead Options These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are ideal for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the shortcake base and layer it in the pan up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. The strawberry filling can also be prepped ahead—just toss the strawberries with cornstarch and sugar, then store them in the fridge separately to prevent excess moisture. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the layers and proceed with the final baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavor and texture, perfect for any quick, last-minute gatherings! Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe FAQs What type of strawberries should I use? Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries that are bright red and free of any dark spots. Look for strawberries that are plump and smell sweet; they’ll add the juiciness and flavor you desire. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to properly thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your dessert. How should I store my Strawberry Shortcake Bars? To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their soft texture and flavor. Just remember to use a container that seals well to prevent them from drying out. Can I freeze Strawberry Shortcake Bars? Yes, you can freeze your Strawberry Shortcake Bars! Here’s how: Once they’ve cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place them in a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and they’ll be good as new! A quick reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds will make them feel freshly baked again. What should I do if my bars turn out too dry? Very! If you find your Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a bit dry, it might be due to overbaking. Always keep an eye on them as they bake; they should be golden brown on the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean but not dry. To help with texture next time, ensure your ingredients (especially the butter and eggs) are at room temperature before mixing, and avoid overmixing the batter. Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe? Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best texture. Keep in mind that results may vary, but you’ll still have a delicious reinterpretation of the Strawberry Shortcake Bars! Are there any allergies I should be aware of? Very! These Strawberry Shortcake Bars contain common allergens such as eggs and dairy. If you or your guests have allergies, you can replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use egg substitutes like applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. If you offer these bars at gatherings, be sure to have a list of ingredients available for those who may have dietary restrictions. Delightful Strawberry Shortcake Bars for Sweet Summer Memories Enjoy these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Bars, featuring layers of fresh strawberries and buttery shortcake for a perfect summer dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Shortcake Base1 cup unsalted butter Provides moisture and richness; use room temperature for best results.1 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness and helps create a fluffy texture; brown sugar can be substituted for a deeper flavor.2 large eggs Binds the ingredients together; ensure they’re at room temperature for a smoother batter.1 tsp vanilla extract Adds flavor depth; pure vanilla offers the best taste, but imitation can be used in a pinch.2 cups all-purpose flour Forms the base structure; a gluten-free flour blend can be substituted.1 tsp baking powder Acts as a leavening agent for a lighter texture.¼ tsp salt Enhances overall flavor.For the Strawberry Filling2 cups fresh strawberries Provides the juicy filling; frozen strawberries can be used if properly thawed and drained.1 tbsp granulated sugar For sweetening berries, depending on their sweetness; particularly useful if using less ripe strawberries.1 tbsp cornstarch Helps thicken and stabilize the strawberry filling, ensuring it holds together beautifully.For Topping (optional)whipped cream or stabilized whipped topping A delightful addition for serving, making your bars extra indulgent.white chocolate drizzle or powdered sugar Optional garnishing for added sweetness and aesthetic appeal; drizzle for a festive finish! Equipment 9x13 inch baking panMixing BowlElectric mixerSpatula Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it.In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.Incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.Spread about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared baking pan.Toss 2 cups of chopped fresh strawberries with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 optional tablespoon of sugar, then spoon over the shortcake base.Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the strawberries, ensuring some areas remain exposed.Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into squares. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesThese bars are perfect for BBQs, easily portable and customizable with other fruits or toppings for a fun twist. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
