Mmm, nothing says summer like the sweet tang of strawberries and lemon baked into a chewy, buttery blondie. These strawberry lemon blondies are the perfect blend of fruity and sweet, with a hint of citrus that makes them irresistibly refreshing. Plus, they’re super easy to make, requiring just one bowl and minimal prep time. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s about to become your new summer favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of fresh strawberries and lemon zest brings a bright, fruity flavor that’s perfect for summer.
- Using melted butter ensures a moist, chewy texture that blondies are famous for.
- The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various add-ins and substitutions to suit your taste.
- It’s a one-bowl recipe, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious blondies.
- The blondies are perfectly sweet with a slight tang, making them a hit among both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup diced strawberries
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This step ensures your blondies don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Tip: Lightly grease the parchment paper for extra non-stick insurance.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing until smooth. The lemon zest is key here, as it infuses the batter with a bright, citrusy aroma.
Add Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough blondies, so stop as soon as the flour disappears. Then, fold in the diced strawberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. Tip: Toss the strawberries in a tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The center should be set but still slightly soft for that perfect chewiness.
Cool and Serve
Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and serve. Tip: For extra zing, drizzle with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their blondie game, here are some pro tips. First, consider toasting the sugar with the lemon zest before adding it to the butter. This technique, known as oleo saccharum, intensifies the lemon flavor. Second, if you’re using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter. Lastly, for a more decadent treat, layer white chocolate chips or chunks into the batter before baking. The creamy sweetness pairs beautifully with the tart strawberries and lemon.
Recipe Variations
- Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different berry twist.
- Add a handful of white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier blondie.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of poppy seeds for a fun texture and visual appeal.
- For a nutty version, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped almonds or pecans.
- Make it gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This prevents the blondies from becoming too wet or soggy during baking.
How do I store these blondies?
Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make these blondies dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with your favorite dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or margarine. Just ensure it’s in a solid form when measuring for accuracy.
Summary
These strawberry lemon blondies are a delightful summer treat, combining the sweetness of strawberries with the zesty tang of lemon in a chewy, buttery blondie. Easy to make and versatile, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a sweet treat at home.
