Baking can sometimes transform into a mini crisis when you’re scrambling for that perfect last-minute dessert. Fear not, because I’ve got a delightful solution for you: Strawberry Lemon Blondies! These little wonders blend the sweetness of fresh strawberries with zesty lemon, creating a gooey treat that’s as refreshing as a summer breeze. What’s even better? This quick and easy recipe ensures you can whip them up in no time, perfect for unexpected guests or just to satisfy that midday sweet craving. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s make your kitchen the place to be this season. Are you ready to indulge in sunshine with every bite?
Why Are Strawberry Lemon Blondies Irresistible?
Bright, Fresh Flavor: This recipe perfectly balances sweet strawberries with zesty lemon, creating a delightful burst of taste reminiscent of sunny days.
Quick and Easy: Don’t have all day? No problem—just mix and bake! These blondies are super simple, making them ideal for quick preparations.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether it’s for a family gathering or a casual get-together, these blondies will have everyone reaching for seconds. They’re an indulgent treat that’s loved by all!
Versatile Alternatives: Swap strawberries for other berries or even try adding nuts for an exciting twist. This recipe is flexible enough to suit your taste preferences.
Perfect Summer Dessert: With their gooey texture and light flavor, these blondies are truly the ultimate summer dessert. Pair them with some whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat!
If you’re in the mood to explore more fruity delights, try the Fried Strawberry Cheesecake or a refreshing Vanilla Custard Strawberry Tart.
Strawberry Lemon Blondies Ingredients
For the Blondies
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetness is key; coconut sugar makes a great healthier substitute.
• Lemon Zest – Brings a bright citrus punch; using organic lemons enhances this flavor.
• Plain Flour – Provides structure; replace with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat.
• Baking Powder – Essential for rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Salt – Elevates flavor; sea salt adds a delightful touch.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; coconut oil works for a dairy-free option.
• Eggs – Binds ingredients while adding moisture; aquafaba is a fantastic vegan alternative.
• Lemon Juice – Contributes tanginess and moisture; freshly squeezed is the best choice.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; swap for almond extract for a unique twist.
• Fresh Strawberries – The star ingredient; use ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness.
For the Icing
• Chopped Strawberries – Adds flavor; feel free to substitute with raspberries or other berries.
• Icing Sugar – Sweetens the icing; powdered erythritol is ideal for a low-sugar option.
These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are not only delicious but also quick and easy to whip up, making them a perfect summer dessert for any occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease an 8×8 inch baking tin with a bit of butter or non-stick spray to ensure your Strawberry Lemon Blondies release easily after baking. This initial step is crucial for achieving that perfectly gooey texture.
Step 2: Mix Sugar and Lemon Zest
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and lemon zest until well combined. This should take about a minute; you want the mixture to be fragrant and slightly fluffy. The sugar will absorb the lemon oils, enhancing the overall flavor of your blondies, so mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, add melted butter to the sugar mixture, ensuring it has cooled slightly to prevent cooking the eggs. Mix until combined, then incorporate the eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and fully blended, creating a rich base for your blondies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this dry ingredient blend into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense blondies; the goal is a thick batter with a few lumps remaining.
Step 5: Fold in the Strawberries
Gently fold in the fresh strawberries to the batter. This step is all about preserving the structure of the strawberries, so use a spatula to carefully incorporate them. You should see bursts of pink throughout the batter, adding beautiful color and flavor to your Strawberry Lemon Blondies.
Step 6: Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Step 7: Cool and Ice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer the blondies to a wire rack, allowing them to cool completely. Cooling is essential so your icing won’t melt; the blondies should be completely set for the best texture.
Step 8: Prepare the Icing
For the icing, blend chopped strawberries with icing sugar until you achieve your desired consistency. This should take a few moments; you want it to be pourable yet thick enough to sit on top of your blondies. This delicious strawberry drizzle will add the perfect finishing touch.
Step 9: Drizzle and Serve
Finally, drizzle the icing over your cooled Strawberry Lemon Blondies, allowing it to set for a few minutes. Cut into squares and serve with a smile, knowing you’ve created a delightful summer treat that friends and family will love!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Room Temperature: Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their gooey texture while keeping them fresh.
Fridge: Place leftover blondies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Refrigeration will help retain their flavor but may slightly alter the texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual blondies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months—perfect for a quick indulgence!
Reheating: To enjoy frozen Strawberry Lemon Blondies, simply thaw them at room temperature for an hour and pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
What to Serve with Strawberry Lemon Blondies
These delightful blondies are just the start of a summer meal that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
-
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds a light, sweet complement to the tangy blondies, making each bite even more indulgent.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of melons, berries, and citrus brings a refreshing contrast to the rich blondies, enhancing their fruity flavor profile.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving warm blondies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a heavenly dessert that combines hot and cold textures wonderfully. Think blissful summer evenings.
-
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea brings a refreshing brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the blondies, making it a delightful pairing for warm evenings.
-
Chocolate Ganache: For an indulgent twist, drizzle warm chocolate ganache over the blondies. The combination of chocolate and tangy lemon creates a luxurious flavor journey.
-
Almond Biscotti: This crunchy treat adds a delightful texture contrast, providing a nutty note that beautifully complements the sweetness of the blondies. Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of crunch with their sweets!
-
Mango Sorbet: For something lighter, a scoop of mango sorbet offers a tropical flair, enhancing the overall fruitiness while providing a refreshing palate cleanse.
-
Mint Tea: A fragrant cup of mint tea adds a warm herbal note that pairs well with the strawberry and lemon, creating a soothing finale after dessert.
Strawberry Lemon Blondies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix up this recipe and make it your own with these delicious suggestions!
- Berry Swap: Replace fresh strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different berry flavor. The tartness of raspberries can add an exciting twist!
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor. They bring a delightful crunch to every bite—perfect for nut lovers.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these blondies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. They’ll enjoy the same gooey goodness!
- Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free treat without sacrificing richness. The subtle coconut flavor can be a wonderful addition!
- Vegan Option: Use aquafaba instead of eggs for a vegan-friendly version. This creative substitute binds just like eggs, offering the same moist texture that everyone loves.
- Flavored Icing: Instead of a strawberry icing, try lemon zest icing for a zesty twist. Just mix lemon juice with icing sugar for a sweet and tangy topping.
- Indulgent Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for an extra decadent treat. It transforms these blondies into an indulgent dessert that’s hard to resist.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or ginger for a warm spice note that pairs perfectly with the fruity flavors. A little creativity can elevate this dish to a whole new level!
And if you’re seeking more summery delights, try whipping up Lemon Garlic Butter Cod for a fresh dinner option or some creamy Strawberry Chia Pudding for breakfast.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. For the best results, allow the batter to come to room temperature before baking. Additionally, you can cut the blondies into squares and store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, just drizzle the icing on top for that fresh touch—it will be just as delicious! This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress with minimal effort, making meal planning a breeze.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
-
Melted Butter Caution: Ensure the butter is melted but slightly cooled before adding to the mixture. This avoids cooking the eggs and keeps your blondies perfectly gooey.
-
Avoid Overbaking: Check your blondies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. They should look set at the edges but slightly soft in the center to achieve that ideal texture.
-
Ingredient Quality Matters: Fresh, organic lemons and ripe strawberries can significantly enhance the flavor of your Strawberry Lemon Blondies. Don’t cut corners!
-
Cooling Technique: Let the blondies cool in the pan for 15 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their structure and ensures they’re easy to slice.
-
Customize Your Icing: Feel free to adjust the consistency of your icing by adding more or less icing sugar, tailoring it to your preferred sweetness and texture.
-
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a delightful twist!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for ripe, sweet strawberries. Look for varieties that are vibrant red and firm, avoiding any with dark spots or excessive blemishes. Organic strawberries are also a great choice to enhance the freshness in your Strawberry Lemon Blondies.
How should I store my Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
I recommend keeping your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal gooeyness. If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 4 days; just be aware that refrigeration may slightly change their texture, making them a bit firmer but still delicious!
Can I freeze Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about an hour, then pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that warm, fresh-from-the-oven vibe!
What should I do if my blondies turn out too dry?
If your blondies are dry, it’s often due to overbaking. Make sure to check them a few minutes before the suggested baking time, and look for set edges but a slightly soft center. If they still turn out dry, consider serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of extra icing to add moisture back into each bite.
Are these Strawberry Lemon Blondies suitable for people with allergies?
The original recipe contains eggs and gluten; however, you can easily modify it for dietary needs. Use aquafaba instead of eggs for a vegan option and substitute plain flour with a gluten-free blend. Always check specific ingredient labels to accommodate any allergies your guests may have. Enjoy the process, and customize to suit your needs!
How can I enhance the flavor of my icing?
Absolutely! Feel free to play with your icing flavors! You can adjust the ratio of chopped strawberries to icing sugar for your desired sweetness and thickness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of lemon juice or even almond extract to elevate the flavor profile even further!
Strawberry Lemon Blondies: Your New Favorite Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking tin.
- Whisk together granulated sugar and lemon zest in a large mixing bowl.
- Add melted butter, then incorporate eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together plain flour, baking powder, and salt, then mix into the wet ingredients.
- Gently fold in fresh strawberries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and bake for about 30 minutes.
- Let the blondies cool for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Blend chopped strawberries with icing sugar to achieve the desired consistency for icing.
- Drizzle the icing over your cooled blondies, let set, then cut into squares and serve.
Leave a Reply