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Easy Strawberry Shortcake Bars with Buttery Crust

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These easy strawberry shortcake bars combine a buttery crust, a tender shortcake center, and a sweet, juicy strawberry layer in a simple, sliceable dessert perfect for gatherings or everyday treats.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 bars
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. In a small bowl, beat the eggs with the vanilla extract, then stir into the dry mixture until a dough forms.
  5. Reserve 1 cup of the dough for topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  6. In another bowl, combine the chopped strawberries with cornstarch and lemon juice. Spread the strawberry mixture over the crust.
  7. Crumble the reserved dough evenly over the strawberry layer.
  8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the filling is bubbling.
  9. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
  10. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat slices.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • Frozen strawberries can be used if thawed and drained well.
  • Add almond extract to the dough for a flavor twist.
  • Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/easy-strawberry-shortcake-bars-with-buttery-crust/