Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled the warm Strawberry Shortcake Bars out of the oven, the sweet aroma of freshly baked shortcake and ripe strawberries filled my kitchen, transporting me straight to summer picnics and backyard barbecues. These irresistible bars embody the classic dessert we all know and love but with a convenient twist—perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a delightful treat after dinner. Not only are they a breeze to prepare, but their easy-to-slice nature makes them an ideal dessert for sharing with friends and family. Best of all, you can customize these bars with your favorite fruits or toppings, ensuring that every batch is uniquely yours. Are you ready to bring a taste of summer to your kitchen? Why are Strawberry Shortcake Bars a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor: The juicy strawberries paired with a buttery shortcake create a taste sensation that’s simply unforgettable. Easy to Make: With a straightforward process, even novice bakers can whip these up in no time—perfect for home cooks looking for quick yet delicious desserts. Customizable Options: Feel free to mix it up with raspberries or blueberries, or even add a zesty lemon twist to the batter. Your creativity knows no bounds! Perfect for Sharing: These bars are not just a treat; they’re designed to be shared—ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a family dessert night. Nostalgic Vibes: Enjoy the classic shortcake experience in a modern format, bringing back memories of childhood summers with every bite. Strawberry Shortcake Bars Ingredients • Discover the key ingredients for your summer favorite! For the Shortcake Base Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g) – Provides moisture and richness; be sure to use room temperature for easy blending. Granulated sugar (1 cup / 200g) – Adds sweetness and aids in fluffiness; brown sugar can be replaced for extra depth. Large eggs (2) – Binds everything together; ensure they are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor profile; go for pure vanilla for the best taste, though imitation works in a pinch. All-purpose flour (2 cups / 250g) – Creates the structure; feel free to substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed. Baking powder (1 tsp) – Provides leavening for a lighter texture. Salt (¼ tsp) – Elevates the overall flavor of the bars. For the Strawberry Filling Fresh strawberries (2 cups, chopped) – Offers that juicy, fruity filling; frozen strawberries can be used if properly thawed and drained. Granulated sugar (1 tbsp, optional) – Sweetens the berries according to taste; adjust depending on berry sweetness. Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Thickens and stabilizes the strawberry mixture. For the Topping and Garnish Whipped cream or stabilized whipped topping – An optional topping that adds a creamy finish when serving. White chocolate drizzle or powdered sugar – Optional garnish for added sweetness and a beautiful presentation. With all these delightful ingredients, you’re set to create unforgettable Strawberry Shortcake Bars that will be a hit at any summer gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake Bars Step 1: Prep the pan Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, take a 9×13 inch baking pan, line it with parchment paper, and lightly grease the paper. This ensures easy removal of your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Bars once they are baked, setting you up for success. Step 2: Make the shortcake base In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—approximately 3-4 minutes. Next, add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until perfectly smooth, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 3: Add dry ingredients Incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; the dough should be thick but not overmixed, which is key to preserving the soft texture of your Strawberry Shortcake Bars. Step 4: Layer the batter Spread about two-thirds of your thick batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out with a spatula to ensure the base is level. The batter should create a solid foundation for your fruity filling, providing a delightful contrast to the fresh strawberries. Step 5: Prepare the strawberries In a separate bowl, toss 2 cups of chopped fresh strawberries with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and an optional tablespoon of sugar for added sweetness. This mixture helps thicken and stabilize the filling. Next, spoon the strawberry mixture evenly over the shortcake base, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful. Step 6: Top with remaining dough Using a spoon or spatula, drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the strawberries. Don’t worry about complete coverage; leaving areas exposed will create a beautiful, rustic finish once baked. This method allows the strawberries to peek through, adding to the enticing presentation of your Strawberry Shortcake Bars. Step 7: Bake Place the baking pan into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This visual cue indicates your Strawberry Shortcake Bars are perfectly cooked and ready to be cooled. Step 8: Cool and top Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Strawberry Shortcake Bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. To serve, slice into squares and consider topping with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness that enhances your delightful summer dessert. What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Bars These delightful bars are not only a treat for the taste buds but also open the door to creating a beautiful summer meal experience. Refreshing Lemonade: A chilled glass of lemonade complements the sweetness of the shortcake bars and brings a zesty freshness that invigorates the palate. Minty Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits tossed with fresh mint adds a light, vibrant side that balances the richness of the dessert. Imagine a burst of cool, sweet flavors that pair beautifully with every bite of the bars. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings delightful creaminess to the table, enhancing the strawberry flavor in the bars while offering a satisfying contrast in temperature. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: For a fun and elegant touch, add some chocolate-dipped strawberries; their sweetness and rich chocolate flavor create a decadent pairing. Whipped Cream: Keep it classic with a generous dollop of whipped cream, adding an airy, luscious element that elevates every piece of shortcake. Iced Tea: Unsweetened or lightly sweetened iced tea complements the bars perfectly, providing a refreshing yet relaxing drink for those warm summer days. Berry Compote: A warm berry compote drizzled over the bars takes dessert up a notch with additional juicy flavors, making for an indulgent experience. Grilled Peaches: Caramelize some peaches on the grill for a deliciously sweet and smoky dessert that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries, creating a memorable flavor combination. Sparkling Water with Berries: Keep it light and refreshing with sparkling water infused with berry slices, offering a bubbly drink option that enhances the summery feel. Expert Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Bars Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier blending. This will help create a smoother batter for your Strawberry Shortcake Bars. Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dry ingredients just until combined to maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can make the bars dense and less enjoyable. Drain Juicy Berries: If using especially juicy strawberries, drain them on paper towels. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy filling in your bars. Cooling is Key: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan; this helps them set properly and makes for cleaner slices. If you’re in a hurry, refrigerate them briefly. Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to switch up the toppings—try a chocolate drizzle instead of white chocolate for a rich contrast. Strawberry Shortcake Bars Variations Feel free to get creative with these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Bars—your taste buds will thank you! Berry Swap: Use blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries instead of strawberries for a different fruity twist. Each berry offers its unique sweetness. Citrus Zing: Add lemon or orange zest to the shortcake base, bringing a vibrant upgrade that brightens every bite. The zest complements the berries beautifully! Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle the bars with melted dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate for a rich flavor contrast. This will surely satisfy any chocolate craving. Jam-Filled Delight: Spread a layer of your favorite fruit jam (apricot or raspberry) under the strawberries for added sweetness and flavor depth. It’s like a fruity surprise in every slice! Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans over the top before baking for a delightful crunch and extra texture. The nutty flavor harmonizes well with the bars’ sweetness. Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil and try a plant-based egg replacement to make it dairy-free. This keeps it deliciously moist without sacrificing flavor! Spiced Up: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the shortcake mixture for a warm, cozy flavor that evokes comforting memories. It gives a lovely aromatic twist to each bar. Tropical Flavor: Mix in chopped tropical fruits like mango or pineapple with the strawberries for an exotic summer treat. These flavors create a refreshing, sunny experience! Feel free to explore these ideas, and don’t hesitate to check out our other summer dessert inspirations in this summer treats guide that everyone will adore! Storage Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Bars Room Temperature: Keep your Strawberry Shortcake Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best flavor and texture. Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring they’re tightly wrapped or in a suitable container to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled bars in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag. These can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Reheating: If desired, gently reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm, enhancing the delicious strawberry flavor. Make Ahead Options These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shortcake base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to make the batter, spread it into your pan, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep moisture at bay. For the strawberry filling, chop and toss the strawberries with cornstarch, then refrigerate them (up to 3 days) separately to preserve freshness. When you’re ready to bake, layer the chilled strawberries over the batter and spoon on any remaining dough, then pop them in the oven. You’ll enjoy all the delightful flavors of these Strawberry Shortcake Bars with minimal last-minute effort! Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe strawberries for my Strawberry Shortcake Bars? Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are firm, vibrant red, and have a sweet aroma. Avoid strawberries with dark spots or mushy areas, as these can indicate over-ripeness or spoilage. To ensure the best flavor, choose berries that are in season for maximum sweetness. What is the best way to store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Bars? I often keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to enjoy their soft texture. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just make sure they are sealed properly to prevent them from drying out! Can I freeze Strawberry Shortcake Bars? If yes, how? Yes, you can definitely freeze your bars! First, allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. You can store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, and they’ll taste just as delicious as when you first baked them! Why are my Strawberry Shortcake Bars soggy? Very! If your bars are turning out soggy, it’s often due to excess moisture from the strawberries. Be sure to drain fresh berries on paper towels to remove extra juice before layering them in the pan. Also, make sure to allow the bars to cool completely in the pan; this helps them set and firm up before slicing. Are Strawberry Shortcake Bars suitable for people with dietary allergies? Yes, they can be adjusted! For those with gluten sensitivities, simply use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. If you’re wondering about butter alternatives, you can use a dairy-free butter substitute. Just be cautious with the toppings as whipped cream might contain dairy—there are great non-dairy options available as well! Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe instead of fresh? Absolutely! You can substitute with frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid to prevent a soggy filling. When the fresh fruit isn’t available, frozen strawberries can still deliver that delightful fruity flavor in your Strawberry Shortcake Bars! Delicious Strawberry Shortcake Bars for Your Summer Gatherings These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are the perfect summer dessert—easy to prepare and share, with a customizable twist of fresh fruit. 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: 280 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.0.25 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 Sweetens berries depending on their sweetness; adjust to taste.1 tbsp cornstarch Helps thicken and stabilize the strawberry filling.For Toppingwhipped cream or stabilized whipped topping Optional topping for serving, adding a creamy finish.white chocolate drizzle or powdered sugar Optional garnishing that adds sweetness and visual appeal. Equipment 9x13 inch baking panMixing BowlElectric mixerSpatula Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake BarsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or butter.In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add in 2 room-temperature large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.Gently incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt into the wet mixture. Stir just until combined and form a thick dough.Spoon about two-thirds of your shortcake batter into the prepared baking pan. Evenly spread it across the bottom of the pan.In a separate bowl, toss 2 cups of chopped fresh strawberries with 1 tablespoon of optional granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the batter layer in the pan.Drop spoonfuls of the remaining shortcake batter over the strawberries. Allow some of the fruit to peek through.Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown.Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares. Top with whipped cream or powdered sugar before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 2gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier blending. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture. Allow bars to cool completely for cleaner slices. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
