Description
These Strawberry Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a tender buttery base infused with strawberry extract, a luscious layer of strawberry jam, and a sweet powdered sugar glaze enhanced with fresh strawberries. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, these bars are ideal for an afternoon treat or a festive dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp strawberry extract
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
Filling
- 1 cup strawberry jam
Glaze
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 strawberries, mashed
- 2-3 tsp milk
- Optional: 1/4 tsp strawberry extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Base Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition. Mix in the strawberry extract and buttermilk.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to form a smooth batter.
- Bake the Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Add the Strawberry Jam Layer: Spread the 1 cup of strawberry jam evenly over the slightly cooled base, ensuring full coverage.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar, mashed strawberries, and milk. Add the optional 1/4 tsp strawberry extract if desired. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Apply the Glaze: Drizzle or spread the glaze evenly over the jam layer. Allow the glaze to set for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate briefly to speed up the setting.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, cut the bars into 9 equal pieces. Serve and enjoy your fresh, flavorful strawberry bars.
Notes
- Room temperature ingredients ensure better mixing and a smoother batter.
- Use fresh or high-quality strawberry jam for the best flavor.
- You can substitute buttermilk with milk mixed with 1 tsp vinegar if needed.
- The glaze can be adjusted in thickness by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
