Introduction to Strawberry Lemon Blondies
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet. That’s why I adore these Strawberry Lemon Blondies! They’re a delightful blend of juicy strawberries and zesty lemon, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you need a quick dessert for a family gathering or a special surprise for your kids, these blondies are a fantastic solution. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you’ll feel like a baking superstar without spending hours in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Lemon Blondies
These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a game-changer for busy days! They come together in just 40 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying dessert. The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy lemon creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with friends or family, ensuring you’ll be the star of any gathering. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious Strawberry Lemon Blondies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture. Melt it for a smooth batter.
- Brown sugar: It gives a lovely caramel flavor and helps keep the blondies soft.
- Egg: A large egg binds everything together, providing structure.
- Vanilla extract: This adds a warm, sweet aroma that complements the fruity flavors.
- Lemon zest: Fresh zest brings a bright, zesty kick that elevates the blondies.
- Lemon juice: A splash of juice enhances the lemon flavor, making it refreshing.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the blondies, giving them that perfect chewy texture.
- Baking powder: This helps the blondies rise, creating a light and fluffy treat.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Fresh strawberries: The star of the show! They add sweetness and a burst of color.
- White chocolate chips (optional): For a touch of creaminess, these can be folded in for extra indulgence.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with substitutions, like using coconut oil instead of butter or swapping in your favorite berries if strawberries aren’t available. The possibilities are endless!
How to Make Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Strawberry Lemon Blondies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This will make it easy to remove the blondies later.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Mix them until smooth and creamy. Then, add in the egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be glossy and inviting!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking powder, ensuring your blondies rise perfectly. Once mixed, set this bowl aside for the next step.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Now, it’s time to bring the wet and dry ingredients together. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your blondies soft and chewy!
Step 5: Fold in Strawberries and Optional Ingredients
Next, gently fold in the chopped strawberries. If you’re feeling indulgent, add in the white chocolate chips too. Use a spatula to carefully mix them in without crushing the strawberries. This step adds bursts of flavor and sweetness to every bite!
Step 6: Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your blondies are ready!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. You can serve them warm or at room temperature. They’re delightful on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t over-mix the batter; it keeps the blondies soft and chewy.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest.
- Let the blondies cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Equipment Needed
- 8×8 inch baking pan: A square pan is ideal, but you can use a similar-sized dish.
- Mixing bowls: Use any size, but a large bowl is best for combining ingredients.
- Whisk: A whisk helps blend wet ingredients smoothly; a fork works too!
- Spatula: Perfect for folding in strawberries and spreading the batter evenly.
- Wire rack: Great for cooling; a plate can work in a pinch.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
- Berry Medley: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a colorful twist.
- Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Strawberry Lemon Blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an elegant touch.
- Enjoy with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade to enhance the fruity flavors.
- For a picnic, pack them in a cute container for a sweet treat on the go.
FAQs about Strawberry Lemon Blondies
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work well, but make sure to thaw and drain them first. This prevents excess moisture in your Strawberry Lemon Blondies.
How do I store leftover blondies?
Store your Strawberry Lemon Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They’ll stay delicious and soft!
Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake them a day in advance. Just let them cool completely, then cover and store. They taste just as good the next day!
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar. For a similar flavor, add a tablespoon of molasses to your granulated sugar.
Are these blondies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Your Strawberry Lemon Blondies will still be delightful!
Final Thoughts
Making Strawberry Lemon Blondies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The vibrant flavors of strawberries and lemon come together to brighten any day, making these blondies a delightful treat for family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying them warm with a scoop of ice cream or sharing them at a gathering, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. I hope you find joy in every bite, just as I do. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the baking adventure begin!
PrintStrawberry Lemon Blondies: Indulge in a Fresh Delight!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 blondies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful dessert combining the sweetness of strawberries with the zesty flavor of lemon, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, whisking until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and white chocolate chips if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the blondies cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add more lemon zest.
- These blondies can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 blondie
- Calories: 180
Keywords: Strawberry Lemon Blondies, Strawberry Lemon Bars