Strawberry Pie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Strawberry Pie Bars are a wonderful fusion of flavors and textures. The buttery, flaky crust complements the sweet and slightly tart strawberry filling, making each bite irresistible. Not only are they simple to make, but they also hold together well, making them easy to serve and share. The crumbly topping adds a delightful crunch, making them even more satisfying. This recipe is perfect for strawberry lovers, and it’s an excellent way to enjoy the fresh flavors of strawberries year-round.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until a dough forms.

3. Press about two-thirds of the dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.

4. In a separate bowl, toss the diced strawberries with cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using).

5. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the crust in the pan.

6. Crumble the remaining dough on top of the strawberry layer to create a crumbly topping.

7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling.

8. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 bars

• Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling time)

Variations

• Berry Mix: Try substituting the strawberries with a mix of berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these bars.

• Vegan: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use a flax egg or other egg substitute to make the recipe vegan.

• Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for extra texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the Strawberry Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.

• Freezing: You can freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

How can I make the crust more flavorful?

You can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust mixture for extra flavor. Alternatively, try using brown sugar instead of white sugar for a richer taste.

Can I use a different type of fruit in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the strawberries with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches. Just adjust the sweetness as needed.

Are these bars gluten-free?

The recipe as written is not gluten-free, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.

How do I make sure the crust is perfectly crisp?

Make sure to press the dough firmly into the pan to form a solid crust. Bake it long enough so it’s golden brown before adding the strawberry filling.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the topping is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling around the edges.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan. Just adjust the baking time as needed, and check for doneness by ensuring the topping is golden brown.

Can I add a glaze on top of the bars?

Yes! A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and a little lemon juice or milk would be a great addition to these bars for a bit of extra sweetness.

How long do these bars last?

These Strawberry Pie Bars last for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve them.

Conclusion

Strawberry Pie Bars are a simple yet delicious dessert that everyone will love. With their buttery crust, sweet strawberry filling, and crumbly topping, they make the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a sweet snack at home, these bars are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of strawberries in every bite!