I've never met a dessert that screams summer more than these strawberry lemon blondies—if they could talk, they'd probably hum a beachy tune. The combination of juicy strawberries and zesty lemon creates a flavor that's both invigorating and indulgent, like a picnic in your mouth. I'll admit, I wasn't sure how well they'd turn out the first time I tried them, but now they're my go-to treat for warm weather gatherings. Want the secret to their perfection?
What You'll Love About This Recipe
These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweet and tangy flavors. [BOLD]Easy to make with simple ingredients.[BOLD] [BOLD]Packed with fresh strawberries and zesty lemon.[BOLD] [BOLD]Perfect for any occasion, from dessert to a summer snack.[BOLD]
Recipe
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and tangy with these Strawberry Lemon Blondies. Soft, chewy, and packed with fresh flavors, this dessert is a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla, and lemon zest, mixing well.
- Gradually fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries and lemon juice.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes:
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 180
Cuisine: American
Equipment
To make these delightful strawberry lemon blondies, having the right equipment on hand will guarantee a smooth baking process. Here's what you'll need:
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife or pastry cutter
- Wire cooling rack
Nutrition
Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful treat that balances sweet and tangy flavors. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional content based on a standard serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
- Total Fat: 10g, with 6g of saturated fat
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g, including 18g of sugar
- Protein: 3g
- Calcium: 2% of daily value
- Iron: 4% of daily value
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing these strawberry lemon blondies with a fresh fruit salad for a light, invigorating combo, or topping them with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. If you're looking for something cool and tangy, lemon sorbet is a perfect match. Don't forget a glass of iced tea to round it all out—it's my go-to for sunny afternoons!
Fresh Fruit Salad
When I'm serving up a batch of Strawberry Lemon Blondies, I love to pair them with a vibrant fresh fruit salad—it's like a burst of sunshine on the plate. The crisp, juicy fruits balance the sweetness of the blondies perfectly, and the colors make the whole dessert table pop. I like to keep it simple but exciting, mixing classic favorites with a few unexpected twists. Here's my go-to combo:
- Sweet strawberries, sliced thin
- Tangy pineapple chunks
- Juicy orange segments
- Crisp green apple, diced
- A handful of ripe blueberries
It's light, invigorating, and totally irresistible!
Vanilla Ice Cream
While a fresh fruit salad brings a bright contrast to Strawberry Lemon Blondies, there's another classic pairing that can't be overlooked: vanilla ice cream. Its creamy, cool texture melts perfectly against the warm, chewy blondies, creating a balance that's hard to resist. I love how the subtle sweetness of the ice cream complements the tangy lemon and juicy strawberries without overpowering them. It's like a match made in dessert heaven! Plus, it's so easy—just scoop and serve. Whether you're enjoying it after dinner or as a midday treat, this combo never fails to hit the spot. Trust me, you'll want seconds!
Whipped Cream
Although whipped cream might seem like a simple addition, it's a game-changer when paired with Strawberry Lemon Blondies. It adds a light, creamy contrast to the tangy, sweet flavors, making every bite even more delightful. I love how it melts just slightly into the warm blondie, creating a perfect harmony of textures. Whether you make it fresh or grab a can, it's a must-try topping.
- Light, fluffy peaks that melt in your mouth
- A hint of vanilla to complement the citrus
- A cool, creamy layer against the warm blondie
- Perfect for balancing the dessert's tanginess
- Adds a playful, indulgent finish to each bite
Iced Tea
Since Strawberry Lemon Blondies are such a vibrant, citrusy treat, I've found that a revitalizing glass of iced tea makes the perfect companion. The cool, invigorating taste of iced tea balances the sweetness of the blondies, creating a delightful contrast. I love brewing a classic black tea or experimenting with fruity flavors like peach or raspberry. Adding a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint elevates the experience, making it feel extra special. It's a simple pairing, but it's one I always come back to because it's so satisfying and easy to put together.
Lemon Sorbet
If you're looking for an invigorating dessert to pair with your Strawberry Lemon Blondies, lemon sorbet is a winner. Its bright, tangy flavor complements the sweet, chewy blondies perfectly, creating a revitalizing balance. I love how the cool, smooth texture contrasts with the warm, gooey bars, making each bite exciting. Plus, it's light enough to cleanse your palate without overwhelming the dessert. Here's why I think it's a must-try:
- Zesty, citrusy flavor that wakes up your taste buds
- Creamy, icy texture that melts in your mouth
- Naturally rejuvenating, especially on warm days
- Simple ingredients, often just lemons, sugar, and water
- A guilt-free treat that feels indulgent
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
I can use frozen strawberries instead of fresh, but I'd thaw and drain them first to avoid extra moisture. They'll still give a fruity flavor, though the texture might be softer than with fresh berries.
How Do I Store the Blondies to Keep Them Fresh?
Did you know blondies stay fresh up to 5 days when stored properly? I'd let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If I need them longer, I'd freeze them!
Can I Substitute Lemon Juice With Lemon Extract?
I can substitute lemon juice with lemon extract, but I'll need to adjust the amount since extract is more concentrated. I'd use about 1 teaspoon of extract for every 2 tablespoons of juice. [35 words]
Why Are My Blondies Too Crumbly?
I've been there—my blondies falling apart like they've got a mind of their own. Turns out, I overmixed the batter or skimped on binding ingredients like eggs or butter. A little tweak's all it takes!
Can I Double the Recipe for a Larger Batch?
I can double the recipe for a larger batch, but I'll need to adjust the baking time slightly. I'll keep an eye on it and test with a toothpick to make sure it's done in the center.
