Strawberry Lemon Blondies Delightful and Easy Recipe

Get ready for a treat with my Strawberry Lemon Blondies! This easy recipe combines sweet strawberries and zesty lemons for a delicious dessert. Perfect for a snack or a summer gathering, these blondies are simple to make and fun to eat. Whether you’re a baking pro or a novice, I’ll guide you through each step. Let’s dive in and learn how to wow your taste buds with this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

Key Ingredients for Strawberry Lemon Blondies

To make these strawberry lemon blondies, you need some key ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 1 cup brown sugar, packed tightly

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 2 large eggs, at room temperature

– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon fine salt

– Zest of 1 medium lemon

– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced

These ingredients create a moist and sweet treat. The butter gives a rich flavor. The sugars add sweetness and help with texture. Eggs bind everything together.

Optional Ingredients for Enhancements

You can add some optional ingredients for extra flair. Here are a few ideas:

– Powdered sugar for dusting

– A pinch of cinnamon for warmth

– A splash of almond extract for a nutty taste

These additions can enhance the flavor. They make the blondies even more appealing.

Recommended Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools makes baking easier. Here’s what you will need:

– 9×9 inch baking pan

– Mixing bowls

– Whisk

– Rubber spatula

– Wire rack for cooling

These tools help you mix and bake perfectly. A good pan ensures even baking. A wire rack helps cool the blondies quickly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat warms the oven evenly. Next, take a 9×9 inch baking pan. Lightly grease it with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper. This step helps the blondies come out easily after baking.

Mixing Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of melted butter. Then, mix in 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk these together until they blend well and look smooth. Next, add in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Lastly, stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. This will add a rich flavor to your blondies.

Combining Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt. Then, add the zest of 1 medium lemon and 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix these dry ingredients until they are well combined. This step is key for the texture of your blondies.

Fusing in Strawberries

Now, gently fold in 1 cup of hulled and diced fresh strawberries. Make sure to distribute them evenly throughout the batter. Be careful not to mash the strawberries. This keeps the texture nice and fresh in each bite.

Baking and Cooling Process

Pour the strawberry-lemon batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly for consistent baking. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. When done, the edges should be a lovely golden brown. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Texture

To get the best texture in your blondies, focus on mixing. Overmixing leads to tough blondies. Mix just until the flour disappears. The batter should feel thick and slightly sticky. This will give your blondies a soft and chewy bite.

Best Practices for Mixing

Start with the wet ingredients first. Make sure your butter is melted but not hot. Mix the brown sugar and granulated sugar in well. Add the eggs slowly, mixing each one in fully. When you add the flour, use a spatula to fold it in gently. This keeps the batter light. Finally, fold in the strawberries, but do it lightly. You want chunks of strawberries, not mush.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter. For gluten-free blondies, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. You can also use flax eggs for a vegan version. Just mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This will help bind your blondies. Each of these swaps helps you enjoy the flavors without worry.

Variations

Adding Other Fruits (e.g., Raspberries, Blueberries)

You can mix in other fruits to change the taste. Raspberries add a tart flavor. Blueberries bring sweetness. Use the same amount as strawberries. Just fold them in gently. This keeps the blondies soft and tasty.

Different Flavor Twists (e.g., Coconut, Almond)

Try adding coconut for a tropical vibe. Use shredded coconut in the batter. Almond extract can give a nutty touch. Replace some vanilla with almond extract. Both options make the blondies unique and fun.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Adaptations

To make these blondies gluten-free, switch to almond or coconut flour. For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. This gives the blondies a nice, chewy texture without eggs.

Storage Info

Best Ways to Store Leftover Blondies

To keep your strawberry lemon blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container. I recommend placing parchment paper between layers. This keeps them from sticking together. If you don’t have an airtight container, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure to keep them at room temperature for the best taste.

How to Freeze Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Freezing blondies is quite easy. First, let the blondies cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped blondies in a freezer bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw them at room temperature.

Shelf Life and Freshness Tips

When stored properly, these blondies last about four to five days. Keep them in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight. If they start to dry out, add a slice of bread to the container. The bread helps keep the blondies moist. For the best taste, enjoy them within the first few days.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in your blondies. They work well, but remember to thaw them first. Drain excess juice to avoid a soggy batter. Frozen strawberries may break apart more easily, so fold them in gently. This helps keep your blondies from turning too mushy.

How do I know when the blondies are done baking?

To check if the blondies are done, look for golden brown edges. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes. The time will vary, so keep an eye on them.

What can I serve with Strawberry Lemon Blondies?

Strawberry Lemon Blondies taste great on their own, but you can add more fun. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy treat. Fresh whipped cream also pairs nicely. For a burst of flavor, drizzle some lemon glaze over the top. Enjoy your delicious creation!

In this post, we explored how to make delicious strawberry lemon blondies. We covered key and optional ingredients, tools, and step-by-step baking instructions. You learned tips for the perfect texture and ways to adapt the recipe. Plus, we discussed how to store leftovers and answered common questions.

These blondies are easy and fun to make. Experiment with flavors, and enjoy creating your own treats! Happy bakin