Introduction to Strawberry Lemon Blondies
When it comes to delightful desserts, Strawberry Lemon Blondies are an absolute game changer. Imagine a soft, chewy treat bursting with the fresh flavor of ripe strawberries and the zesty brightness of lemons. Not only do they look stunning with their pastel pink hue, but they also offer a perfectly balanced sweet-tart taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
These blondies are incredibly versatile, making them the ideal choice for any occasion—from casual gatherings to fancy dinner parties. They are easy to whip up, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. You’ll find yourself reaching for them when you're in need of a quick snack or when entertaining guests looking for something special.
Plus, strawberries are a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which makes these blondies a slightly healthier indulgence (a blog by the Harvard Health Publishing suggests that incorporating fruits into treats can mitigate some of the guilt!). So, if you're on the hunt for a sweet treat that’s both delicious and visually appealing, your search ends here.
Join me as we dive into the delightful world of Strawberry Lemon Blondies, where each bite is an explosion of flavor that is sure to please.
Ingredients for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Creating Strawberry Lemon Blondies is all about combining refreshing flavors for a delightful treat. Here's a breakdown of the essential ingredients you'll need to whip up these delicious bars.
Key Ingredients for the Blondies
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor profile in your blondies, make sure you have the following:
- 1 cup unsalted butter: At room temperature for easy creaming.
- ¾ cup sugar: Regular granulated sugar will provide the right sweetness.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ingredients together.
- ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice: Use freshly squeezed for the best tangy flavor.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: This creates the base of the blondies.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: For a light, fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste.
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries: Fresh is key for that burst of fruity flavor!
Ingredients for the Glaze
To top your blondies with a sweet and zesty glaze, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sifted to prevent lumps—measure before sifting for accuracy.
- 1 tablespoon strawberry puree: Made from about two large strawberries for that pop of freshness.
- Lemon juice: Add about 1 Tbsp, adjusting as needed to reach a spreadable consistency.
With these ingredients, you’re just a whisk away from enjoying your Strawberry Lemon Blondies! Have fun in the kitchen and don’t hesitate to get creative. You can find more tips on fruit pairings and substitutions in this guide. Happy baking!
Preparing Strawberry Lemon Blondies
If you're craving a delightful balance of sweet and tart, you're in for a treat with these Strawberry Lemon Blondies. They are a beautiful pink showcase of summer's best flavors that are easy to whip up. Let's dive into the preparation!
Gather Your Tools and Ingredients
First things first, you’ll need the right tools and ingredients to make this delicious dessert. Here’s what you’ll require:
Equipment:
- 9x9 square baking pan
- Parchment paper (optional, but highly recommended for easy removal)
Ingredients:
For the blondies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (please, no bottled stuff!)
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tablespoon strawberry puree (you'll need about 2 large strawberries)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or enough to create a spreadable consistency)
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan
Before getting your hands dirty, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your 9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This will help you lift the blondies out easily later on, making your life much simpler when it’s time to slice and glaze.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
Now it's time to cream the butter and sugar together in a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to combine until it's light and airy—this step is crucial for that light texture! Once fluffy, beat in your egg until fully incorporated.
Incorporate the Egg and Lemon Juice
Next, add the fresh lemon juice. Don’t worry if it doesn’t mix in smoothly; the important thing is to combine everything well, ensuring that hint of citrus comes through in your Strawberry Lemon Blondies.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the flour disappears. Avoid overmixing, or your blondies will be dense instead of delightfully airy.
Fold in the Strawberries
Carefully fold in your diced strawberries. This will add a pop of freshness and vibrant color—who can resist that? Make sure those strawberries are distributed evenly throughout the batter.
Bake to Perfection
Spread the blondie mixture into your prepared pan, smoothing it out as evenly as possible. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, keeping an eye on it. You'll know they’re done when the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out moist but not wet. Allow them to cool on a rack.
Make the Glaze
While your blondies are cooling, prepare the glaze. Trim and puree your strawberries in a mini food processor, then strain it to get about 1 tablespoon of pure strawberry goodness. Combine your puree with sifted powdered sugar and lemon juice, whisking until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.
Glaze the Blondies
Once your blondies are completely cool, spread the glaze over the top. Remember to let it set before slicing them into squares. You now have the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness packed into these beautiful Strawberry Lemon Blondies!
Enjoy your creation, and don’t forget to share some with friends or colleagues who will surely be impressed! For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!
Variations on Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Strawberry Lemon Blondies with Raspberries
For a delightful twist, consider adding fresh raspberries to your Strawberry Lemon Blondies. Their tartness pairs beautifully with the sweet strawberries and tangy lemon, creating a medley of flavors. Simply swap out half of the strawberries for an equal amount of raspberries. You'll end up with a gorgeous dessert that not only tastes great but also makes for a lovely presentation. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy seasonal fruits.
Gluten-Free Strawberry Lemon Blondies
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, it’s easy to adapt the original recipe! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. This simple switch doesn’t compromise the texture or the delightful taste of the blondies, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat. So whether you have dietary restrictions or just want to try something new, these gluten-free Strawberry Lemon Blondies will be a hit at your next gathering!
Baking Notes for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Tips for Ingredients Measurement
Getting your measurements just right is crucial for the perfect Strawberry Lemon Blondies. Start by fluffing your flour with a spoon before scooping it into your measuring cup. This prevents compacting and ensures you don’t add too much. Level it off with a straight edge for accuracy. Also, make sure to measure out your sugar before sifting it — this helps maintain the right glaze consistency later on!
Adjusting the Glaze Consistency
When preparing your glaze, it's all about finding that sweet spot. If it’s too thin and soaks into the blondies, simply add a bit more powdered sugar. Conversely, if it’s too thick, thin it out with a splash of lemon juice or a bit more strawberry puree. A little taste test will help you nail that perfect balance!
Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Ideal Pairings with Your Blondies
When enjoying Strawberry Lemon Blondies, consider pairing them with a refreshing iced tea or a light lemonade to complement their fruity tartness. For a touch of indulgence, a scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside creates a delightful contrast with the blondies’ chewy texture. An artisan coffee can also enhance the experience, adding a cozy vibe that's perfect for afternoon enjoyment.
Occasion Ideas for Serving
These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are versatile enough for various occasions. Bring them to a summer picnic, serve them at a birthday party, or offer them as a sweet finish to a casual dinner with friends. They also make wonderful treats for brunch gatherings or cozy evenings spent with family. Their vibrant color and delicious flavors are sure to impress your guests and make any event a bit sweeter!
Time Details for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Preparation Time
Get your baking adventure started with just 15 minutes of prep. This quick step includes gathering your ingredients and mixing up the batter for your Strawberry Lemon Blondies.
Baking Time
Allow 30 minutes for baking. Keep an eye on those beauties as they rise—you're looking for a light golden edge and a fluffy center!
Total Time
In just 45 minutes, you can have a batch of these delightful blondies ready to enjoy. Perfect for a last-minute dessert or a sweet treat during your weekend baking session!
For more quick and delicious dessert ideas, check out Gluten-Free Brownies and Easy Lemon Bars.
Nutritional Information for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Calories per Blondie
Each Strawberry Lemon Blondie contains approximately 319 calories. This makes them a delightful indulgence for dessert lovers without completely derailing your daily nutritional goals.
Breakdown of Key Nutrients
These delicious blondies provide a vibrant mix of key nutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 16g (of which 10g are saturated fats)
- Cholesterol: 54mg
- Sodium: 105mg
- Potassium: 79mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 23g
Packed with flavor and light on protein, Strawberry Lemon Blondies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying a sweet treat after dinner. For more insights on nutrition in baked goods, you might find it helpful to check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central, which provides comprehensive nutritional data.
Whether you’re counting macros or just looking to enjoy some fruit-filled bliss, these blondies can satisfy your cravings deliciously!
FAQs about Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely! You can use frozen strawberries in your Strawberry Lemon Blondies, but make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture. This helps prevent the blondies from becoming too soggy. If you're in a pinch, frozen berries will still bring a delicious flavor to your treats!
How do I store leftover blondies?
To keep your Strawberry Lemon Blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week, but they may lose some of their chewy texture. For longer storage, consider freezing the blondies. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to keep them from freezer burn, and they’ll stay delightful for up to three months.
What should I do if my blondies are too dry?
If your blondies turned out a bit too dry, don't worry! Try adding a simple glaze with fresh lemon juice and some strawberry puree to bring back that moistness and flavor. You can also serve them with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an added touch of decadence.
Conclusion on Strawberry Lemon Blondies
In summary, Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful dessert that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon in a soft, chewy bar. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these blondies are sure to impress. Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring every delicious bite!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Equipment
- 9x9 square baking pan
- parchment paper
Ingredients
blondies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 ¼ cups all purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted measure out your sugar before sifting.
- 1 tablespoon strawberry puree you'll need about 2 large strawberries, instructions below.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice about or just enough to thin the glaze to a spreadable consistency
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350F.
- Line a 9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper with long edges. This is optional but will help you lift out the blondies for easy glazing and slicing later.
- Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg.
- When the egg is fully incorporated, beat in the lemon juice. The lemon juice will probably not completely incorporate at this point, that's ok.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, and add to the wet ingredients, mixing until no more dry flour is present.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries. Spread the mixture into your pan and spread out as evenly as possible. The dough is thick, so take your time. I like to use a large offset spatula for this job.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, just until starting to turn golden around the edges and the center is set. A toothpick inserted in the center will be moist but not wet. Don't over-bake these, or they will dry out. Let cool on a rack.
- Trim the strawberries for the glaze and puree in a small food processor. Strain the puree through a small strainer to get 1 tablespoon of puree.
- Whisk together the sugar, puree, and lemon juice until no lumps remain. If your glaze is too thin, add a touch more sugar. If it's too thick, add more lemon juice.
- Spread the glaze over the cooled blondies. Let the glaze set before slicing.
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