Description of this Recipe: These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful twist on the classic blondie, infused with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and the sweet burst of fresh strawberries. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and steps, yet they deliver a chewy, moist, and utterly irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The combination of tangy lemon and sweet strawberries creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s both refreshing and comforting.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires no fancy equipment or complicated techniques. It’s a straightforward, foolproof method that anyone can master.
- Chewy Texture: The blondies boast a delightful chewy texture, thanks to the brown sugar and melted butter, making them a satisfyingly indulgent treat.
- Versatile: These blondies are perfect for a casual dessert, a bake sale treat, or a special occasion. Their bright flavors make them a crowd-pleaser year-round.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant red strawberries speckled throughout the golden blondies make them visually appealing and inviting.
Introduction
Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a celebration of spring and summer flavors, bringing together the zesty brightness of lemon with the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries in a classic, comforting blondie. Unlike their chocolatey counterpart, the brownie, blondies offer a buttery, brown sugar-based canvas for flavors, making them incredibly versatile. This recipe takes full advantage of that versatility, creating a blondie that’s not just sweet but also bursting with refreshing citrus and fruity notes.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s a one-bowl wonder that comes together quickly, making it perfect for those moments when you crave a homemade treat without the fuss. The melted butter and brown sugar create a wonderfully chewy texture, while the lemon zest and juice add a tangy zing that cuts through the sweetness. Fresh strawberries, folded gently into the batter, provide bursts of juicy flavor and a delightful pop of color.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to be foolproof. The steps are straightforward, the ingredients are readily available, and the result is always a batch of irresistibly delicious blondies that will impress friends and family alike. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy them on their own with a cup of coffee or tea. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these Strawberry Lemon Blondies are sure to become a new favorite.
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
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring your oven is properly preheated is crucial for even baking and achieving the desired texture. While the oven is heating up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan. Grease the pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent the blondies from sticking. For extra insurance and easy removal, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will allow you to lift the entire batch of blondies out of the pan once they’ve cooled, making slicing and serving a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and packed light brown sugar until the mixture is well combined and smooth. This is a key step for achieving that signature chewy blondie texture. Make sure the butter is completely melted but not too hot, as this can cook the eggs later on. Whisk vigorously until the sugar is fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform in color and consistency.
Next, add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, contributing to a lighter and chewier final product. Be sure to whisk each egg until it’s fully emulsified into the butter and sugar mixture.
Finally, stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until everything is thoroughly incorporated. The vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, while the lemon zest and juice provide a bright, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the brown sugar and strawberries. Ensure the lemon zest is finely grated to evenly distribute the flavor throughout the blondies.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking the dry ingredients ensures that they are evenly distributed, which is essential for consistent baking. The baking powder helps the blondies rise slightly, creating a tender crumb, while the salt enhances the overall flavor of the blondies, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the other flavors.
Step 4: Mix Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in tough blondies. Mix until the flour disappears, and then stop.
Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Handle the strawberries with care to avoid crushing them and releasing too much moisture into the batter. This step is where the magic happens – the juicy, sweet strawberries will add bursts of flavor and vibrant color to the blondies.
Step 5: Bake
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures that the blondies bake evenly and have a consistent thickness throughout.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter). The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s essential to keep a close eye on the blondies and check for doneness using the toothpick test.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. As the blondies cool, they will firm up and become easier to slice.
Once cooled, slice into squares and serve. These blondies are delicious served warm or at room temperature.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
- Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
- Cut into smaller squares for a bite-sized treat at parties or gatherings.
- Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Tips:
- Use room-temperature eggs for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter to avoid tough blondies.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest.
- If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding them to the batter.
- To prevent the strawberries from sinking to the bottom of the blondies, toss them lightly in flour before folding them into the batter.
- Store leftover blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30-35 minutes
Total Time:
45-50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 250-300 Protein: 3g Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of simple ingredients and bright, refreshing flavors. They’re the perfect treat to brighten up any day, whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet and homemade. The chewy texture, the tangy lemon, and the sweet burst of strawberries create a harmonious combination that’s sure to delight your taste buds. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistibly delicious blondies. You won’t be disappointed!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh strawberries?
A: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in this recipe, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to thaw the strawberries completely before using them. Once thawed, gently squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the blondies from becoming soggy. You may also want to chop the strawberries into smaller pieces since they tend to be softer after thawing. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries may not have the same vibrant color or intense flavor as fresh strawberries, but they will still add a delightful fruity note to the blondies.
Q2: Can I substitute the brown sugar with white sugar?
A: While you can technically substitute brown sugar with white sugar, it will change the texture and flavor of the blondies. Brown sugar contains molasses, which contributes to the chewy texture and caramel-like flavor that are characteristic of blondies. If you use white sugar, the blondies will be less chewy and may have a slightly different sweetness profile. If you do substitute, you might want to add a tablespoon of molasses to the batter to try and replicate some of the qualities of brown sugar.
Q3: How do I prevent the strawberries from sinking to the bottom of the blondies?
A: There are a couple of tricks you can use to prevent the strawberries from sinking to the bottom of the blondies. One method is to toss the chopped strawberries lightly in flour before folding them into the batter. This helps to coat the strawberries and prevent them from sinking. Another tip is to make sure the batter is not too thin or runny. If the batter is too thin, the strawberries will be more likely to sink. Finally, try to distribute the strawberries evenly throughout the batter to help them stay suspended.
Q4: Can I add a lemon glaze to these blondies?
A: Absolutely! A lemon glaze would be a delicious addition to these Strawberry Lemon Blondies, enhancing the citrus flavor and adding a touch of sweetness. To make a simple lemon glaze, whisk together powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. You can also add a little lemon zest for extra flavor. Once the blondies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before slicing and serving.
Q5: How should I store leftover Strawberry Lemon Blondies?
A: To store leftover Strawberry Lemon Blondies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can store them in the refrigerator, but keep in mind that they may become slightly drier. You can also freeze the blondies for up to 2 months. To freeze them, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.
