If you’re searching for a dessert that brilliantly balances bright, fresh flavors with buttery richness, look no further than this Strawberry Lemon Blondies Recipe. These blondies are tender and moist with the perfect hint of zesty lemon and juicy strawberry bits throughout, making each bite a delightful surprise. Whether you’re craving a special treat for an afternoon snack or a stunning addition to your next gathering, this recipe brings a burst of sunshine and sweetness that’s totally irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Strawberry Lemon Blondies Recipe plays a crucial role, combining to create that classic blondie texture with pops of fresh fruit and citrus brightness. From the richness of butter to the freshness of lemon zest, each element takes the blondies from good to unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup melted butter adds essential richness that keeps the blondies moist and tender.
- Light brown sugar: 2 cups packed brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the fruit perfectly.
- Large eggs: 2 eggs help bind all ingredients while adding structure and moisture.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon provides a subtle, fresh citrus aroma that brightens every bite.
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons infuses natural tartness, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups give the blondies their classic dense yet soft texture.
- Baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon ensures a slight lift and lightness in the blondie crumb.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon brings out the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Fresh strawberries: 1 cup, chopped adds juicy bursts of flavor and vibrant color throughout.
How to Make Strawberry Lemon Blondies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, prepare your baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This step is key to achieve those blondies with perfectly even cooking and easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Next, whisk together the melted butter and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to create a light and velvety batter. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice to infuse that signature citrus flavor into every bite.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures all the dry components are evenly distributed before mixing with the wet ingredients, helping your blondies bake up perfectly.
Step 4: Mix the Batter
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined—don’t over-mix or you’ll risk dense blondies! Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, making sure they’re evenly scattered throughout the batter to deliver juicy sweetness in every piece.
Step 5: Bake
Pour and spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The outside should be set while the center remains tender and luscious.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your strawberry lemon blondies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling step lets them set fully, making slicing easier and serving more enjoyable. Once cooled, slice into squares and get ready to delight your taste buds!
How to Serve Strawberry Lemon Blondies Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your strawberry lemon blondies with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant touch. Fresh strawberry slices or thin lemon zest curls on top add inviting color and hint at the flavors inside.
Side Dishes
Serve these blondies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the tangy citrus and sweet strawberries. A cup of herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade pairs beautifully for a perfect afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the blondies into small bite-sized squares and serve on a platter with mini skewers for easy sharing. You can also layer them in dessert parfaits with fresh berries and cream or crumble over yogurt for an indulgent breakfast option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover strawberry lemon blondies keep wonderfully at room temperature for up to three days if stored in an airtight container, maintaining their moist texture and fresh flavors. For longer keeping, refrigerating is a sure way to preserve their freshness for about a week.
Freezing
You can freeze these blondies by wrapping individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-proof container or bag. Frozen blondies last up to three months and thaw beautifully at room temperature for a quick treat anytime.
Reheating
If you prefer your strawberry lemon blondies slightly warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or briefly heat in a low oven. Warming releases the fresh lemon aroma and softens the blondies to melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could affect the blondies’ texture.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just be aware the taste might be slightly less bright and fresh.
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. The texture might be a bit different, but the flavor will still shine.
Why do my blondies come out dry?
Dry blondies usually mean they’ve been overbaked. Keep a close eye during baking and test with a toothpick at the 30-minute mark to ensure they remain tender inside.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
While butter adds richness and flavor, you can use an equal amount of vegetable oil. Just know the texture may be a bit softer and less buttery.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Lemon Blondies Recipe is hands down one of those irresistible desserts that feels like sunshine in every bite. Its balance of sweet, tart, and buttery flavors makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser any time of year. I can’t wait for you to try it and share these lovely blondies with your friends and family—they’re sure to become a beloved favorite just like they are in my kitchen!
Print
Strawberry Lemon Blondies Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Delight in these luscious Strawberry Lemon Blondies, combining a buttery, tender base with fresh strawberries and bright lemon zest and juice for a refreshing twist. Perfect for a sweet snack or an elegant dessert, these blondies bake to a golden perfection with a moist, crumbly texture and vibrant fruity flavor.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Fruits
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and packed light brown sugar until smooth and combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. Carefully fold in the chopped fresh strawberries, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into 12 squares and serve.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh ripe strawberries to maximize flavor and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep the blondies tender.
- Allow the blondies to cool fully before slicing to ensure clean cuts and proper texture.
- You can substitute light brown sugar with dark brown sugar for a richer molasses flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
