Name: Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup salted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated white sugar; 1 large egg; 3 tbsp lemon juice (approximately 1 large lemon); 1 tbsp lemon zest; 2⅓ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); ¼ tsp baking soda; 1¼ cups diced fresh strawberries; 1½ cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp lemon juice (approximately 1 medium sized lemon); 1 tbsp strawberry jam

Introduction to Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful twist on the classic blondie, offering a luscious combination of sweet strawberries and zesty lemon that is simply irresistible. If you're looking for a treat that’s both easy to prepare and stunning to serve, this fresh dessert will not disappoint! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be indulging in these mouthwatering blondies in no time.

Why You'll Love Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Bright Flavor: The contrast of the sweet strawberries with the tangy lemon creates a refreshing flavor profile that dances on your tastebuds.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight or unexpected guests, these blondies come together in just 10 minutes and bake beautifully in 45.
Versatile: Enjoy them as a dessert on their own or accompany them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Gorgeous Presentation: The vibrant colors of the strawberries against the golden blondies create an eye-catching dessert that impresses at any gathering.

Whether you're craving a little pick-me-up during your work week or need a crowd-pleaser for your next party, strawberry lemon blondies are a wonderful option. Try making them today using the full recipe below and get ready to enjoy this delightful fusion of flavors!

Ingredients for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

When it comes to making delightful strawberry lemon blondies, sourcing the right ingredients is key! Here’s a handpicked list to ensure your baking adventure turns into a delicious success.

List of Essential Ingredients

For the blondies, you’ll need:

1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened to perfection
1 cup granulated white sugar for that ideal sweetness
1 large egg to bind those lovely flavors together
3 tablespoon lemon juice (about 1 large lemon) for that refreshing tartness
1 tablespoon lemon zest to amplify the citrusy aroma
2⅓ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled for the perfect texture
¼ teaspoon baking soda to give it a lovely rise
1¼ cup diced fresh strawberries, bursting with flavor and color

And don't forget the glaze:

1½ cups powdered sugar for a sweet finish
2 tablespoon lemon juice (from about 1 medium lemon)
1 tablespoon strawberry jam to tie it all together

With these ingredients in hand, you’re on your way to baking a batch of delectable strawberry lemon blondies that everyone will love! For tips on choosing fresh strawberries, check out this guide. Ready to get baking?

Preparing Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Making strawberry lemon blondies is a delightful way to bring sunlight into your kitchen. This quick and easy recipe is packed with fresh flavors and the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Let’s dive into how to prepare these delectable treats step-by-step.

Step 1: Gather your ingredients

Before anything else, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients to make the process smoother and more enjoyable. For these blondies, you’ll need:

1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened
1 cup granulated white sugar
1 large egg
3 tablespoon lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2⅓ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1¼ cup diced fresh strawberries

And for the glaze:

1½ cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoon lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
1 tablespoon strawberry jam

Having everything ready will make your baking experience more enjoyable. If you’d like, check out Culinary Hill for additional tips on ingredient prep!

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened salted butter and granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer. Blend for about 30 seconds until the mixture is creamy and fully combined. This process is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the batter, allowing your blondies to rise beautifully when baked.

Step 3: Incorporate the egg, lemon juice, and zest

Once the butter and sugar are ready, it’s time to add in the flavors. Beat in the large egg, alongside the lemon juice and lemon zest. Each of these ingredients brings its own magical element to the mix—be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 4: Mix in flour and baking soda

Now, add the all-purpose flour and baking soda to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, or your blondies may turn out dense instead of delightfully soft. The texture is key!

Step 5: Fold in the strawberries

This is where things get fruity! Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step is quickly followed by the realization that the vibrant pink color will transform your blondies into a stunning dessert.

Step 6: Pour into the baking pan and bake

Pour the batter into your prepped 9x9 inch baking pan, ensuring it’s evenly spread. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted 1 inch from the edge comes out clean.

Let the baking begin, and soon you’ll be ready for that sweet finale with the glaze!

For more baking tips and tricks, consider visiting Joy of Baking. Enjoy!

Variations on Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake Blondies

If you love the creamy delight of cheesecake, then these Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake Blondies are bound to be your new favorite. By simply adding a layer of creamy cheesecake filling to your existing blondie batter, you create a decadent treat. Use a mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and a bit of lemon juice for that zesty kick. Swirling in fresh strawberries will not only enhance the flavor but also give it an eye-catching marbled look. You have to try this sweet twist!

Gluten-free Strawberry Lemon Blondies

For those who need a gluten-free option, don’t worry! You can easily swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has xantham gum included to keep that beloved blondie texture intact. Gluten-free Strawberry Lemon Blondies are just as delightful and perfect for any gathering. Plus, your friends won’t even know the difference! For some great gluten-free flour recommendations, you might want to check out brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Flour. Happy baking!

Cooking tips for perfect Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Avoid overmixing

To achieve the best texture in your strawberry lemon blondies, it’s crucial to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you add the flour, mix just until everything is combined. Overdoing it can lead to dense blondies instead of the light and fluffy treats you desire. A gentle folding technique works wonders—just enough to incorporate those delicious strawberries without losing the airy quality.

Choosing the right strawberries

Using fresh, ripe strawberries elevates your strawberry lemon blondies significantly. Look for berries that are vibrant in color and slightly firm to the touch. If possible, opt for local strawberries—they tend to be sweeter and more flavorful. Wash and hull them gently, then dice them to ensure they’re evenly distributed in your batter for that juicy burst in every bite!

For more tips, check out resources like Food Network’s Guide to Strawberries.

Serving suggestions for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Enjoy warm with ice cream

For a delightful treat, serve your strawberry lemon blondies warm with a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream. The warm, gooey blondies paired with the cold, creamy ice cream create an irresistible contrast that brings out the tart strawberry and zesty lemon flavors. This combination is perfect for gatherings or as a cozy evening snack.

Perfect pairing with tea or coffee

Looking for a light afternoon indulgence? Enjoy your strawberry lemon blondies with a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee. The refreshing citrus notes complement both beverages beautifully, making for a simple yet elegant snack that will brighten your day. Try pairing them with a chamomile tea or an earthy roast coffee for a truly satisfying experience.

Time Breakdown for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

When you're ready to whip up these delightful Strawberry Lemon Blondies, it's essential to have a clear picture of the time involved. Let’s break it down for you:

Preparation Time

Getting things started takes about 10 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing them together until they're perfectly blended.

Baking Time

You'll want to bake your blondies for 45 minutes to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on them; a toothpick will help you determine when they're done!

Total Time

In just 55 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress your friends and family. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or bringing joy to any gathering!

Feel free to check out Baking Tips for Beginners for more guidance on perfecting your dessert skills. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Understanding the nutritional aspects of these delicious strawberry lemon blondies can help you enjoy them guilt-free! Here’s a closer look at what’s packed inside this delightful treat:

Calories

Each serving of these blondies contains approximately 484 calories. This makes them a delightful yet indulgent dessert option perfect for gatherings or a weekend treat.

Sugar Content

When you bite into a strawberry lemon blondie, you're savoring about 30 grams of sugar per serving. While that may sound like a lot, keep in mind the balance it provides when enjoyed in moderation, especially with their zesty flavors!

Fats

These blondies also contain around 22 grams of fat. The fats primarily come from the salted butter, contributing to that rich, moist texture we all love. Remember, not all fats are bad — healthy fats can make a dessert satisfying without overwhelming your diet.

Want to dive deeper into the nutritional information? Check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central or MyFitnessPal for further details on how these numbers fit into your daily intake. Enjoy your strawberry lemon blondies mindfully!

FAQ about Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
Absolutely! The strawberry lemon blondies are perfect for make-ahead treats. You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember, the strawberries should be added right before baking for the freshest flavor.

How should I store leftovers?
If you have any blondies left (though we doubt it!), simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, and they can last up to a week. You might even consider freezing them for up to a month if you want to savor them later.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead?
Yes, you can! Frozen strawberries work well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to reduce excess moisture, as this can affect the texture of your strawberry lemon blondies. For more tips on using frozen fruits, check out this helpful guide.

Conclusion on Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Recap of Why These Blondies Are a Must-Try

In just 50 words, it's easy to see why strawberry lemon blondies deserve a spot in your dessert repertoire. Their sweet and tart flavor melds beautifully, creating a delightful treat that's quick to whip up and even easier to enjoy. Trust us, these blondies will be a crowd favorite!