why make this recipe
Strawberry Pie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a buttery crust and a smooth cream cheese glaze. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a birthday party, or simply a sweet dessert at home. These bars capture the essence of a classic strawberry pie in a convenient and portable form, making them a favorite among dessert lovers.
how to make Strawberry Pie Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3/4 cup sugar (for filling)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (if needed for glaze)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt to form a crumbly mixture. Press the mixture into the bottom of the baking dish to form a crust.
- In another bowl, mix sliced strawberries, 3/4 cup sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice to prepare the filling.
- Pour the strawberry mixture over the crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the crust is lightly golden.
- While baking, prepare the glaze by beating together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
- Once the bars are baked, let them cool completely before drizzling the cream cheese glaze over the top.
- Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy!
how to serve Strawberry Pie Bars
Strawberry Pie Bars can be served as a delightful dessert after dinner or as a sweet treat during the day. They are delicious on their own or served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, you can garnish each bar with fresh strawberry slices or whipped cream.
how to store Strawberry Pie Bars
To store Strawberry Pie Bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
tips to make Strawberry Pie Bars
- Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- If you like a thicker crust, you can double the crust ingredients.
- For added texture, sprinkle crushed nuts or oats on top of the crust before adding the filling.
- Adjust the amount of sugar in the filling based on the sweetness of your strawberries.
variation
You can substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor. For a more tropical twist, try using diced peaches or mangoes instead.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain them before slicing to remove excess moisture.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make Strawberry Pie Bars a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for the glaze?
If you prefer, you can use Greek yogurt or whipped cream for a lighter glaze option.
