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Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe

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4.3 from 8 reviews

These Strawberry Pie Bars feature a buttery crumbly crust layered with a fresh strawberry filling, perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon zest and juice. Baked to a golden brown finish, these bars are an ideal sweet treat for gatherings or a delightful dessert.

Ingredients

Crust and Topping

  • 3 cups flour
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large lemon zest
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
  • 3 eggs, slightly beaten

Filling

  • 4 cups fresh strawberries, cut in half
  • 1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¾ cup sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to easily lift out the bars once cooled.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients for Crust: In a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Mix on low speed until evenly combined.
  3. Add Butter: Incorporate the cold, cubed butter into the dry mixture and mix until the mixture forms pea-sized butter pieces.
  4. Add Eggs and Form Dough: Add the slightly beaten eggs and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
  5. Press Dough into Pan: Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the parchment-lined baking dish to form the crust and set aside the remaining dough.
  6. Prepare Strawberry Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the strawberries, fresh lemon juice, cornstarch, and sugar until well combined.
  7. Assemble Bars: Pour the strawberry filling evenly over the crust in the baking dish. Use a rubber spatula to spread it out evenly.
  8. Add Crumble Topping: Crumble the reserved dough evenly over the strawberry filling as the topping.
  9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crumble topping is slightly golden brown.
  10. Cool and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and set aside to cool completely before using the parchment overhang to lift out the bars and cut into 24 servings.

Notes

  • Ensure the butter is cold to get a crumbly texture for the crust and topping.
  • Using fresh strawberries is key for the best flavor and texture.
  • The lemon zest and juice add bright citrus notes that complement the sweetness.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely to set the filling for clean slices.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.