Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Strawberry lemon blondies are a delightful twist on the classic blondie, bringing together the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon. With their moist and chewy texture, these dessert bars offer a burst of fruity freshness that makes them a perfect treat for any occasion. The vibrant pink hues from the strawberries and the light yellow from the lemon make them visually appealing, adding a pop of color to dessert tables.

What You’ll Need for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Complete Ingredients List

1. 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
2. 1 cup brown sugar, packed
3. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
4. 2 large eggs
5. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
6. 2 cups all-purpose flour
7. 1 teaspoon baking powder
8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
9. Zest of 1 lemon
10. 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
11. Juice of 1 lemon

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

For those with dietary restrictions, here are some alternatives:

• Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) instead of eggs.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Sugar Alternatives: For a lower-sugar option, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener.

You can also get creative with flavor variations by adding white chocolate chips, nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), or even a hint of almond extract to complement the fruity flavors.

How to Make Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Finally, mix in the lemon zest, ensuring that all the wet ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Once combined, gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to avoid over-mixing. This step is crucial in achieving a tender blondie base.

Step 4: Fold in Strawberries and Bake

Carefully fold in the chopped fresh strawberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. Allow the blondies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Strawberry lemon blondies can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled. For the best flavor, these blondies are delightful when warmed slightly before serving, as the strawberries become even more aromatic. To cut them, run a knife around the edges of the pan before lifting the blondies out using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares, rectangles, or even fun shapes using cookie cutters for a whimsical presentation.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

These blondies can stand alone, but a few toppings can take them to another level. Serve them with a dusting of powdered sugar for elegance, or top with a strawberry or lemon glaze for an extra burst of flavor. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, making it an extraordinary dessert experience.

Storing & Preserving Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Best Storage Methods

To preserve the freshness of your strawberry lemon blondies, store them in an airtight container. At room temperature, they can last up to 3 days; in the fridge, they can stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing them—just be sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

To enjoy frozen blondies, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through. Avoid overheating as it may dry them out.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Lemon Blondies Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

To get perfectly moist and flavorful blondies, avoid over-mixing the batter once the flour is added. This can lead to a tough texture. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation, and always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.

Helpful Tricks for Success

For even more depth of flavor, consider toasting the butter slightly before adding it to the sugars—a technique that adds a nutty, complex flavor. Additionally, using a scale to measure your ingredients can lead to more accurate results, ensuring your blondies turn out consistently delicious each time you bake.

Fun Variations of Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Get creative with your blondies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries. A swirl of cream cheese or a layer of lemon curd on top can also elevate the flavor profile, making your dessert even more decadent. Consider adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom for an unexpected twist.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg), and use dairy-free butter. To create a sugar-free version, seek out suitable sweeteners that measure cup-for-cup with regular sugar. There’s no limit to how you can customize these blondies to fit your dietary needs!

FAQs

What If My Strawberry Lemon Blondies Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your blondies are too dry, it may be due to over-baking or not enough moisture in the ingredients. To troubleshoot, take note of your baking time and always perform the toothpick test a few minutes before the recommended baking time is up. If they are too gooey, they may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake and store them in an airtight container for a quick dessert; just remember that storing them may change their texture slightly, making them slightly denser.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

For those who prefer or need to avoid certain ingredients, you can easily swap brown sugar with coconut sugar if needed. As mentioned, gluten-free flour works well if you are avoiding gluten. Always check the measurement ratios as different flours can behave differently in baking.

With these detailed instructions, helpful tips, and a love for baking at heart, your strawberry lemon blondies will undoubtedly become a household favorite for years to come. Happy baking!

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