Last weekend, as the sun streamed through my kitchen window, I decided it was high time to indulge in a little baking therapy. I conjured up these Strawberry Lemon Blondies, a delightful twist on the classic lemon blondie that's sure to brighten your day. This recipe is not only quick to whip up—taking just 35 minutes from prep to plate—but it's also a crowd-pleaser that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the sweet, juicy burst of strawberries. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, these blondies are the perfect balance of chewy and refreshing. Are you ready to fill your home with that irresistible aroma of baking? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Choose Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
Unforgettable Flavor: These Strawberry Lemon Blondies fuse tart lemon with sweet strawberries for a burst of summer in every bite.
Quick Prep: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, these blondies are perfect for those last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether it’s a family gathering or a friendly get-together, these blondies will earn you rave reviews!
Versatile Delight: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat—wherever you need a little joy!
Baking Therapy: Experience the joy of creating something delicious with minimal effort; your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondie Base
- Granulated sugar – the sweetness that perfectly balances the tart lemon and juicy strawberries.
- Unsalted butter – melted, to add richness and moisture to the blondies.
- Large eggs – these help bind the ingredients together for that chewy texture.
- Lemon juice – fresh juice gives a bright, zesty flavor that shines through.
- Lemon zest – adds an aromatic punch for an extra layer of lemony goodness.
- Vanilla extract – this adds warmth and complements the fruity flavors beautifully.
- All-purpose flour – the foundation for your blondie, creating a lovely texture.
- Salt – a dash enhances all the flavors in this delicious treat.
- Baking powder – helps your blondies rise, giving them that perfect chewy center.
For the Strawberry Twist
- Fresh strawberries – chopped, these juicy gems bring a delightful sweetness and vibrant color to your blondies.
Optional Dusting
- Powdered sugar – a light dusting just before serving adds a touch of sweetness and makes them look dreamy!
These Strawberry Lemon Blondies will turn every bite into a moment of bliss, so gather your ingredients and let’s get baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9 inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This step sets the stage for your delicious Strawberry Lemon Blondies and ensures they won’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix for about 2 minutes until the mixture is blended and smooth. You'll notice it becoming glossy, indicating it's ready for the next steps.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Crack in 2 large eggs, then pour in 1 tablespoon each of lemon juice and lemon zest, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients together until everything is well incorporated and the mixture appears thick and creamy, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly in your Strawberry Lemon Blondies, ensuring they rise perfectly.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Careful not to overmix; you want a slightly lumpy batter that will result in a soft and chewy texture once baked.
Step 6: Fold in Strawberries
Now, gently fold in your chopped fresh strawberries—approximately 1 cup—into the batter. This will add bursts of color and sweetness throughout your blondies, making each bite a refreshing treat.
Step 7: Pour and Spread the Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. It should fill the corners and create a flat surface, ready for baking. You’ll see the vibrant strawberries peeking through the batter, promising a delicious outcome!
Step 8: Bake
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs, they're ready to come out and cool down.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares. This step helps you achieve that perfect chewy texture inside each delightful piece of your Strawberry Lemon Blondies.
Step 10: Optional Dusting
For that extra touch of sweetness and presentation, dust your blondies with powdered sugar before serving. This final sprinkle not only adds charm but also complements the tartness of the lemon beautifully, making your treats look as good as they taste!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries deliver the best flavor; avoid frozen, which can make the blondies soggy.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated for the chewiest texture in your Strawberry Lemon Blondies.
Check for Doneness: Toothpick testing is key—aim for moist crumbs, not completely clean, to keep them soft and gooey.
Cooling Patience: Let the blondies cool completely before slicing to achieve perfect squares without crumbling.
Experiment with Flavor: Add a pinch of salt or a splash of almond extract to enhance the flavor complexity of your blondies!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a fresh treat anytime! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients as directed but omit adding the strawberries. Store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain quality. When you're ready to bake, fold in the chopped strawberries, pour the batter into the prepared pan, and bake as directed. Additionally, you can bake the blondies in advance and keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. They'll be just as delicious when it's time to serve!
What to Serve with Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Brighten up your table with delightful sides and sips that perfectly complement your sweet treats!
- Fresh Berries: A colorful medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing and fruity touch to your dessert spread.
- Lemon Sorbet: The zesty chill of lemon sorbet offers a contrast to the warm, chewy blondies, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that enhances the strawberry tartness while softening the overall sweetness.
- Iced Tea: A glass of homemade iced tea, lemon-infused or minty, pairs beautifully with the citrus notes in the blondies, refreshing each bite.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a touch of indulgence to your dessert by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the blondies for a rich contrast to the bright flavors.
- Nutty Granola: Serve your blondies with a sprinkle of nutty granola on the side; the crunchy texture will elevate the experience with added depth.
- Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea brings a soothing finish after your blondies, refreshing your palate with a gentle aromatic touch.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A light layer of cream cheese frosting offers a tangy sweetness that accentuates the flavors of lemon and strawberries.
- Strawberry Shortcake: As a playful twist, serve as a layered dessert, combining blondies with whipped cream and more fresh strawberries for a gorgeous presentation.
Strawberry Lemon Blondies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these yummy blondies with these delightful twists!
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Berry Medley: Swap strawberries for mixed berries like raspberries and blueberries for a colorful, fruity explosion. The combination will brighten both the taste and presentation!
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Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the chewy blondies. Nuts bring warmth and richness with each bite.
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Coconut Bliss: Incorporate ½ cup of sweetened shredded coconut to the mix. This tropical addition infuses a lovely chewiness and a subtle flavor twist that complements the lemon zest!
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Lemon Poppyseed: Stir in a tablespoon of poppy seeds along with the other ingredients for an interesting crunch and a sophisticated flair that elevates your blondies.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of ground ginger to infuse a little warmth and heat. Your taste buds will enjoy the unexpected contrast!
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Gluten-Free Goodness: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful treat that everyone can savor without gluten worries.
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Lemon-Blueberry Burst: Instead of strawberries, use fresh blueberries for a sweet-tart combo; the juicy berries will burst in your mouth, enhancing the blondies' freshness.
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Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting: Top cooled blondies with a delightful cream cheese frosting for an added layer of richness; the tangy creaminess pairs perfectly with the lemony base!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Room Temperature: Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: These Strawberry Lemon Blondies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm treat, simply microwave a square for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature for full flavor!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best strawberries for my blondies?
Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, plump, and have a sweet aroma. Avoid those with dark spots or mold for the best flavor and texture. Fresh berries will make your Strawberry Lemon Blondies truly delightful!
How should I store my leftover blondies?
Very! Wrap your blondies in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. At room temperature, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days, but if you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to seal them well to maintain their chewy goodness!
Can I freeze my Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
Absolutely! To freeze, first cut them into squares and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
What if my blondies come out too dry or too gooey?
If your blondies are too dry, it could be due to overbaking. Aim for a toothpick that comes out with moist crumbs, not completely clean. For gooey blondies, you may need to bake them a few extra minutes. Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time!
Are these blondies safe for people with allergies?
Very! These Strawberry Lemon Blondies contain common allergens such as eggs and gluten. If you have a gluten sensitivity, consider using a gluten-free flour blend. For egg replacements, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan option. Always ensure that any substitutes are safe for allergies!
Indulge in Strawberry Lemon Blondies that Spark Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9 inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and melted unsalted butter for about 2 minutes until blended and smooth.
- Crack in the eggs, then pour in lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until well incorporated and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in your chopped fresh strawberries into the batter.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Allow blondies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch.
