Strawberry Lemon Blondies: A Sweet & Tart Dessert Recipe

Strawberry Lemon Blondies: Prepare to be utterly captivated by these delightful squares of sunshine! Imagine sinking your teeth into a chewy, buttery blondie, bursting with the bright, tangy flavor of fresh lemon and studded with sweet, juicy strawberries. It’s a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible, and trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked.

While the exact origins of the blondie are debated, it’s generally accepted that they emerged as a lighter, vanilla-flavored alternative to the classic chocolate brownie. Over time, bakers began experimenting with different flavor combinations, leading to the creation of countless variations. This particular recipe, Strawberry Lemon Blondies, is a modern twist on a beloved classic, perfectly capturing the essence of spring and summer.

What makes these blondies so special? It’s the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The lemon zest and juice provide a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the blondie base, while the strawberries add a burst of sweetness and a delightful chewiness. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dessert or a crowd-pleasing treat for your next gathering. Plus, who can resist the vibrant colors and enticing aroma of freshly baked blondies?

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Blondies:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 large lemon
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• For the Lemon Glaze (optional):
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Preparing the Blondie Batter

1. Melt the Butter: Start by melting the butter in a large, microwave-safe bowl. You can do this in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted. Be careful not to overheat it! We want it melted, not browned.
2. Combine Butter and Sugar: Add the granulated sugar to the melted butter and whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step is crucial for achieving that signature blondie chewiness. Don’t skimp on the whisking!
3. Incorporate the Eggs: Crack in the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps create a smooth and emulsified batter.
4. Add Vanilla and Lemon: Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The lemon zest adds a wonderful aromatic element, while the lemon juice provides a subtle tang that complements the strawberries beautifully.
5. Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is essential for proper leavening and flavor.
6. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to tough blondies. A few streaks of flour are okay at this point.
7. Fold in the Strawberries: Gently fold in the chopped strawberries. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter. Be gentle so you don’t crush the strawberries too much; we want them to retain their shape and texture.

Baking the Blondies

1. Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This is my preferred method, as it ensures the blondies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the blondie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Make sure the batter reaches all the corners of the pan for even baking.
3. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set but still slightly soft. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
4. Cool Completely: Remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. This is important because the blondies will continue to set as they cool. If you try to cut them while they’re still warm, they’ll be too soft and may fall apart. I know it’s tempting, but patience is key!

Making the Lemon Glaze (Optional)

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth. Start with 3 tablespoons of lemon juice and add more, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the blondies but thin enough to drizzle easily.
2. Glaze the Blondies: Once the blondies are completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the top. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a more precise application.
3. Let the Glaze Set: Allow the glaze to set for about 15-20 minutes before cutting and serving the blondies. This will prevent the glaze from smearing when you cut them.

Tips and Variations

• Strawberry Swirl: For a marbled effect, reserve a few tablespoons of the blondie batter before folding in the strawberries. Mix the reserved batter with a few tablespoons of strawberry jam or puree. Swirl this mixture into the top of the blondie batter before baking.
• White Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips to the batter along with the strawberries for an extra touch of sweetness and richness. The white chocolate complements the strawberries and lemon beautifully.
• Lemon Extract: If you want a more intense lemon flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter along with the vanilla extract. Be careful not to add too much, as lemon extract can be quite potent.
• Brown Butter: For a richer, nuttier flavor, brown the butter before melting it. To do this, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using in the recipe.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make these blondies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps to bind the ingredients together.
• Storage: Store the blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you’re storing them in the refrigerator, let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing: These blondies can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: These strawberry lemon blondies are delicious on their own, but they’re also great served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also garnish them with fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest.

Troubleshooting

• Blondies are too dry: This could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to measure the flour accurately and don’t overbake the blondies.
• Blondies are too gooey: This could be due to underbaking or not cooling them completely before cutting. Make sure to bake the blondies until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting.
• Blondies are too tough: This could be due to overmixing the batter. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to tough blondies. Mix until just combined.
• Glaze is too thick: Add more lemon juice, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Glaze is too thin: Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Lemon Blondies!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are truly something special, and I wholeheartedly believe they deserve a spot in your baking repertoire. Why? Because they’re the perfect balance of sweet and tart, chewy and fudgy, and bursting with fresh, summery flavors. The bright lemon zest cuts through the richness of the blondie base, while the juicy strawberries add a delightful burst of sweetness and a beautiful pop of color. It’s a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible, and the ease of preparation makes it a winner in my book.

But beyond the incredible taste, these blondies are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for a casual afternoon treat, a potluck dessert, or even a slightly elevated bake sale offering. Imagine serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream – the contrast of temperatures and textures is heavenly! Or, for a more sophisticated presentation, dust them with powdered sugar and arrange them artfully on a platter.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Looking for some fun variations? You could easily swap out the strawberries for other berries like raspberries or blueberries. A handful of white chocolate chips added to the batter would also be a delicious addition. For a more intense lemon flavor, try adding a teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the cooled blondies for an extra touch of sweetness and tang.

Another fantastic serving suggestion is to pair these blondies with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade. The citrus notes in both the drink and the blondies will complement each other beautifully, creating a truly delightful summer experience. For a more adult-friendly pairing, consider serving them with a glass of sparkling wine or a light-bodied rosé.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! That’s the beauty of baking – it’s all about creativity and personal expression. Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon zest or strawberries to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a slightly cakier blondie, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to the batter. And if you’re short on time, you can even use frozen strawberries (just be sure to thaw them and pat them dry before adding them to the batter).

Time to Bake!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of these Strawberry Lemon Blondies for yourself. I truly believe that once you make them, they’ll become a new favorite. The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine, and the ease of preparation makes them perfect for any occasion.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible treats. I promise you won’t be disappointed! And most importantly, have fun with it! Baking should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, so put on some music, pour yourself a drink, and let your creativity flow.

Once you’ve made these blondies, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you think of the flavor? What did you serve them with? Share your photos and stories in the comments below – I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of these Strawberry Lemon Blondies!