Easy Strawberry Shortcake Bars to Try This Summer
If you love classic strawberry shortcake but want something more portable and shareable, Strawberry Shortcake Bars are the perfect solution. These bars are layered with buttery shortcake, whipped topping, and juicy strawberries—ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. They’re easy to make, deliciously sweet, and guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 tbsp sugar (for strawberries)
- 1½ cups whipped cream or whipped topping
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
Slice the strawberries and toss them with 1 tbsp sugar. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes until they become juicy and soft.
2. Make the Shortcake Base:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture becomes crumbly.
3. Add Eggs & Vanilla:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with vanilla. Pour this into the dry mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
4. Assemble & Bake:
Press two-thirds of the dough into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan to form a base. Bake for 15 minutes.
5. Add Strawberries & Topping:
Remove the base from the oven. Spread the macerated strawberries over the base, then layer with whipped cream.
6. Crumble Remaining Dough:
Crumble the remaining dough on top of the whipped layer. Bake for another 20–25 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Cool & Slice:
Let the bars cool completely before slicing. Refrigerate for a cleaner cut.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Bars:
- Use fresh strawberries for peak flavor.
- Chill before cutting for clean layers.
- Swap whipped cream for cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert.
Why You’ll Love It:
These strawberry shortcake bars are everything you want in a summer treat: simple, fresh, and indulgent. They bring all the nostalgia of traditional shortcake with the convenience of a bar format. Perfect with a glass of lemonade or an afternoon coffee break.
