Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a delightful blend of juicy strawberries and tangy lemon, creating a soft, melt-in-your-mouth dessert. The blondies are dense yet moist, thanks to the fresh fruit, with little pockets of jammy goodness throughout. The tangy lemon glaze not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the overall flavor, making each bite a blissful experience.

These blondies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a simple weekend treat or a stunning dessert for a gathering. The recipe is easy to prepare, and the result is a beautiful, naturally pink confection that tastes as good as it looks. Serve these blondies with a cup of tea or coffee, or enjoy them on their own as a sweet indulgence.

Full Recipe:

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg
1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

1 cup diced fresh strawberries

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar, sifted

1 Tbsp strawberry puree (from about 2 large strawberries)
1 Tbsp lemon juice, or just enough to thin the glaze to a spreadable consistency

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated, then add the lemon juice. The mixture may look slightly curdled; this is normal.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Gently fold in the diced strawberries. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out moist but not wet. Avoid overbaking to keep the blondies soft.
Allow the blondies to cool in the pan on a wire rack.

Prepare the glaze: Trim and puree the strawberries, then strain to get 1 Tbsp of smooth puree. Mix the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.
Spread the glaze over the cooled blondies. Let it set before slicing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 319 kcal | Servings: 12 servings

Recipe Insights and Tips:

Texture and Flavor: These Strawberry Lemon Blondies have a texture similar to a soft shortbread but are much moister due to the addition of fresh strawberries. The combination of strawberries and lemon gives a balanced flavor profile: sweet, tart, and slightly buttery. They melt in the mouth, leaving a burst of strawberry goodness with each bite.
Glaze: The glaze for these blondies is made with fresh strawberry puree and lemon juice, giving it a natural pink hue and a tangy finish. It adds a layer of flavor and a touch of elegance, making the blondies look as good as they taste.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- If fresh strawberries are not available, frozen strawberries can be used, but they should be thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
- For a different flavor, you can replace the strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries.
- If you want to enhance the lemon flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter.

Customization: These blondies are highly versatile. For a twist, try incorporating a handful of white chocolate chips or nuts into the batter. They can also be made gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Storage: Store these blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to a month; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Serving Suggestions: These blondies are delightful on their own but can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. They make a perfect addition to a brunch table, a tea party, or a picnic.

Fun Facts:

Blondie Origins: Blondies are considered the “vanilla” version of brownies, traditionally made without cocoa powder. This variation with strawberries and lemon gives a fresh, fruity twist to the classic dessert.
Perfect for Spring and Summer: The fresh strawberry and lemon flavors make this dessert an ideal choice for spring and summer, aligning with the strawberry season. It’s also a beautiful treat for occasions like Mother’s Day, Easter, or Valentine’s Day.

Pairing Ideas:

Beverage Pairings: Serve these blondies with a glass of cold milk, a cup of tea (like Earl Grey or Chamomile), or a refreshing lemonade to complement the tartness of the lemon glaze.

Toppings: For an added flair, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh strawberries or lemon zest over the glaze just before it sets. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the blondies more visually appealing.

History and Inspiration Behind the Recipe:

Blondie Evolution: Blondies originated as a variation of brownies, catering to those who preferred vanilla over chocolate. They have evolved to include various flavors, from classic butterscotch to fruit-infused versions like these Strawberry Lemon Blondies. This recipe draws inspiration from traditional blondie recipes but adds a refreshing twist with the incorporation of fresh strawberries and lemon, creating a dessert that’s both nostalgic and novel.
Seasonal Delight: This recipe is perfect for celebrating the strawberry season, typically in late spring and early summer. Using fresh, ripe strawberries ensures maximum flavor and natural sweetness. The addition of lemon brightens the flavor profile, making these blondies a refreshing treat during warmer months.

Detailed Ingredient Breakdown:

Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key to this recipe, offering a juicy, sweet contrast to the buttery, dense blondie base. When baked, the strawberries soften and create little pockets of jam-like texture within the blondies.
Lemon: The lemon juice in both the batter and the glaze adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the blondies. If you’re a fan of citrus, adding lemon zest to the batter will intensify the lemon flavor even more.
Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dessert. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar, which creates a lighter texture.

Powdered Sugar in Glaze: This provides a smooth, lump-free glaze that sets beautifully on top of the blondies, adding a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Tips for Perfect Blondies:

Proper Mixing: When adding the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can result in a tough texture rather than the desired soft and chewy consistency.
Baking Tips: Keep a close eye on the blondies while they bake. They should be set around the edges and slightly soft in the center when done. Remember, they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Glazing Technique: For a smooth and even glaze, make sure the blondies are completely cooled before applying the glaze. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly. If you prefer a drizzle effect, use a spoon to drizzle the glaze over the blondies for a more rustic look.

Variations and Customizations:

Berry Alternatives: If strawberries aren’t in season, or if you want to try something different, this recipe works well with other berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. A mix of berries would also add a beautiful array of colors and flavors.
Add-ins: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, consider adding white chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the batter.

Dairy-Free Option: To make the recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. Make sure the replacement has a similar fat content to ensure the blondies maintain their texture.

Presentation and Serving:

Cutting the Blondies: For clean, sharp edges, use a sharp knife to cut the blondies once they have completely cooled and the glaze has set. Wiping the knife between cuts will help achieve neat squares.
Serving Suggestions: These blondies are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. Garnishing with a small slice of fresh strawberry or a lemon twist on top of each piece can make them look even more appealing.

Storing and Make-Ahead Tips:

Storing: These blondies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warmer climate or want to keep them fresh longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual blondies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the blondie batter a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply fold in the strawberries and proceed with the recipe. You can also make the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Occasion Suitability:

Perfect for Gatherings: These Strawberry Lemon Blondies are an excellent choice for spring and summer gatherings, such as picnics, potlucks, baby showers, or family get-togethers. Their eye-catching color and fresh flavors make them a crowd-pleaser.
Holiday Treat: While they are particularly suited to warm-weather occasions, their bright and cheerful look makes them a lovely addition to festive dessert tables, including Easter and Valentine’s Day.

Health Considerations:

Allergy-Friendly Adjustments: This recipe can be adapted for those with dietary restrictions. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax or chia egg and use a dairy-free butter substitute.

Nutritional Profile: While these blondies are a sweet indulgence, they offer some nutritional benefits from the strawberries, which are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

Recipe Adaptability:

Different Pan Sizes: If you don’t have a 9-inch square baking pan, you can use an 8-inch pan for slightly thicker blondies or a rectangular pan for thinner bars. Adjust the baking time accordingly, keeping an eye on the edges and center for doneness.
Mini Blondies: For bite-sized treats, use a mini muffin tin and reduce the baking time. These mini blondies make for great party snacks and are easy to serve.

Conclusion:

Strawberry Lemon Blondies are a deliciously moist and tangy treat that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the zest of lemon. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, complemented by a natural pink glaze, makes them perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Easy to customize and adapt to dietary needs, these blondies are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert that brings a burst of fruity flavor to your table.