If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s packed with flavor, you’re in the right place! These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are simple to make and bursting with fresh ingredients. Combining the zesty taste of lemon with juicy strawberries, they create the perfect dessert for any occasion. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make your next bake a hit! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet strawberries paired with the zesty lemon create a delightful and refreshing treat that is perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it a fantastic option for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfectly Moist Texture: The combination of butter and sugar ensures these blondies are incredibly moist and chewy, every bite is a delight.
- Versatile Dessert: These blondies can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, making them a versatile option for any dessert table.
Ingredients
The right ingredients make all the difference in Strawberry Lemon Blondies. Here is what you need:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
– Zest from 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
– Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
Each ingredient plays a key role. The unsalted butter gives a rich base. The brown sugar adds a deep flavor, while granulated sugar keeps it sweet. Eggs provide structure and moisture. Vanilla extract enhances the taste, making it all the more delightful.
Flour acts as the backbone, helping the blondies hold their shape. Baking powder makes them rise, while salt balances the sweetness. Lemon zest and juice bring brightness and tang. Fresh strawberries add a juicy burst of flavor. Lastly, powdered sugar is a lovely touch, making them even more special.
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients leads to the best results. I always recommend checking your pantry before you start. This way, you have everything ready for your sweet and simple treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish. Lightly grease it with non-stick spray. Then, line the bottom and sides with parchment paper. Leave some overhang for easy lifting after baking. This step helps your blondies come out perfectly.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of melted unsalted butter. Then, mix in 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk these together until smooth. Next, add 2 large eggs one at a time. Mix well after each addition. Finally, stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Your wet mix should be creamy and well combined.
Combining Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt. Add the zest of 1 lemon and 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Slowly combine this dry mix with the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just mixed. Avoid overmixing to keep your blondies soft.
Folding in Fresh Strawberries
Now it’s time for the fun part! Take 1 cup of hulled and chopped fresh strawberries. Gently fold them into the batter using a spatula. Make sure the strawberries are evenly spread throughout the mix. This adds a burst of flavor in every bite.
Baking the Blondies
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Use the spatula to smooth it out evenly. Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Check with a toothpick. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cooling and Serving the Blondies
Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven. Let them sit in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper to lift them out. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely. If you want, dust the top with powdered sugar for a nice touch. Cut into 16 squares to serve and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Best Texture
To get that perfect texture in your blondies, follow these tips:
– Use room temperature ingredients. This helps mix well and create a smooth batter.
– Do not overmix after adding flour. Mix just until you see no dry flour.
– Bake until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. This keeps them soft.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
– Using cold butter can make the batter hard to mix. Always melt the butter before starting.
– Forgetting to measure ingredients can ruin your blondies. Use measuring cups for accuracy.
– Opening the oven door too soon can lead to uneven baking. Wait until the last 10 minutes to check.
Best Practices for Substitutions
If you want to switch up ingredients, here’s how:
– You can swap brown sugar for coconut sugar. This gives a nice flavor.
– For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter.
– If you have no fresh strawberries, use frozen ones. Just chop them and add them in!
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Ensuring your eggs are at room temperature will help them incorporate more smoothly into the batter, leading to a better texture in the blondies.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough blondies instead of the desired soft and chewy texture.
- Fresh Strawberries Are Key: For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh strawberries. If out of season, consider using frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained well.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your blondies are perfectly baked, start checking them a few minutes before the recommended baking time. They should be golden around the edges and a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Variations
Adding Other Fruits
You can mix in other fruits for fun flavors. Blueberries and raspberries work great. They add color and taste. You can use about one cup of chopped fruit. Just make sure the fruit is fresh. This way, your blondies stay moist and delicious.
Gluten-Free Option
To make these blondies gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend. Most blends work well in baking. Just make sure it has a good mix of starches and proteins. Your blondies will still be tasty and soft!
Flavor Variations
For new flavors, try adding almond extract. Use about one teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla. It gives a nice nutty taste. You can also add a dash of cinnamon for warmth. These small changes can make a big difference in your blondies!
Storage Info
How to Store Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Store your blondies in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these blondies for later. Cut them into squares and wrap each square in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.
Best Ways to Reheat
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 to 10 minutes. This warms them up nicely and keeps them soft. You can also microwave them for about 15 seconds for a quick warm-up. Enjoy them fresh!
FAQs
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
You can check if the blondies are done by using a toothpick. Insert it into the center. If it comes out clean with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. The edges should be lightly golden. You don’t want a wet toothpick, as it means they need more time. Bake them for about 25 to 30 minutes for best results.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them first. This will help avoid extra moisture in your blondies. Chop them into small pieces before mixing. Frozen strawberries can give you a great taste, but fresh ones add a nice texture.
What can I serve with Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
These blondies are tasty on their own, but you can make them even better! Try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Whipped cream also goes well. You can add fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and flavor. Dust with powdered sugar for a lovely touch. Enjoy!
You now have all the steps needed to make delicious Strawberry Lemon Blondies. We covered the key ingredients, preparation methods, and tips to ensure success. You learned how to store them and explored fun variations.
I hope you feel ready to bake these treats yourself. Enjoy the bright flavors and share them with friends and family. Happy bakin
