Description
Strawberry Crumb Bars capture the essence of summer with fresh strawberries nestled between a buttery, crumbly base and topping. This easy-to-make dessert combines a crisp, sweet crust with a luscious fruit filling for a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a delightful homemade treat.
Ingredients
Crust and Crumb Topping
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups strawberries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the unsalted butter using a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly. Then mix in the egg and vanilla extract until combined. Alternatively, pulse all ingredients except the egg and vanilla in a food processor, then add the egg and vanilla and pulse until mixture forms.
- Press Bottom Crust: Press half of the crumb mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the base layer.
- Prepare Strawberry Filling: In a separate bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with lemon juice and vanilla extract. Sprinkle with sugar and cornstarch, mixing gently to coat the berries well while discarding any excess liquid.
- Assemble Bars: Spoon the strawberry filling evenly over the bottom crust layer. Then sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the strawberry layer, creating the topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the crumb topping is lightly browned and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 9 bars. For best flavor, serve closer to room temperature and store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Notes
- If using a food processor for the crust, pulse until mixture is crumbly before adding egg and vanilla.
- Discard any liquid released from the strawberries to avoid soggy bars.
- Ensure bars cool completely to allow filling to set and make cutting easier.
- Store bars in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
