Sweet Strawberry Pie Bars: The Ultimate Summer Treat 🍓

Okay, so have you ever been hit with a craving so strong you just HAVE to bake something? Like, I was minding my own business—watching Netflix, eating popcorn, you know the vibes—and suddenly I’m like, “I need STRAWBERRY PIE BARS in my life.” Like, right now! And it’s summer, so fresh strawberries are practically begging to be baked.

Main dish photo — *The finished dish — looks amazing, right?*

Okay, Let’s Talk Ingredients

Alright, let’s hit the grocery store together because the ingredient list? Super simple but SO essential. You’ll need:

– 3 cups flour (don’t mess this up—use the right stuff)
– 1½ cups granulated sugar (sweetness overload, yes please)
– ¼ teaspoon salt (just a pinch to balance all that sugar)
– 1 large lemon (we’re talking zest for days)
– ½ cup unsalted butter, cold (like, straight from the fridge)
– 3 eggs (slightly beaten, like they had a long day)
– 4 cups fresh strawberries, halved (the star of the show!)
– 1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lemon juice (because flavor)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for that magical thickening)
– ¾ cup sugar (I know, more sugar, but trust me!)

Got all that? Cool. Let’s go make some magic happen!

So Here’s Why I Make This Constantly

Okay, quick story time! So, the first time I made these bars, I was trying to impress my neighbors—new ones, who I totally wanted to befriend because they seemed cool, you know? I baked these Strawberry Pie Bars and brought them over with a cute little note. I was like, “Hey, welcome to the neighborhood! Here’s some homemade goodness!”

Cut to me nervously waiting at their door, and when they finally opened it, the smell wafting out was like a hug from a summer day. They loved them! We ended up having a whole dessert party—seriously, it was magical. Now, every time I make these, I think back to that day and how something so simple brought us all together. Makes me smile every time!

Another beautiful angle of the dish — *Just as gorgeous from this angle too!*

The One Trick That Changes Everything

Okay, listen up—this is the secret sauce (not literally, but you get it). When you’re mixing that buttery dough, don’t overdo it! You want those little pea-sized butter pieces, right? It’s what makes the crust flaky and delicious. If you overmix, you’re gonna end up with a dense bar instead of the buttery heaven we’re aiming for.

Don’t Mess This Up (My Top Tips)

So, I’ve totally messed up on a couple of fronts here, so you don’t have to! Here are my pro tips:

1. Chill the butter: Seriously, cold butter is key. It makes the crust flaky and dreamy. Don’t skip this step!

2. Don’t rush the cooling time: I know, it’s tempting to dive in, but let those bars cool completely before you cut them. Trust me—save yourself the heartache of mushy bars.

3. Fresh strawberries only: I tried using frozen once… BIG mistake. Just don’t do it.

How to Keep Them From Disappearing (Or, How to Store Them)

Okay, so if your bars make it past the first day (a miracle, honestly), store them in an airtight container. They can hang out in the fridge for about 4-5 days, but let’s be honest, they won’t last that long. If they do, maybe try hiding them? Outta sight, outta mind. 😜

If You Liked This, You’ll Probably Like These Too

If you’re vibing with the summer fruit theme, you might also wanna check out my Blueberry Crumble Bars or Peach Cobbler Muffins. Both are also ridiculously easy and super tasty!

Alright, friend, now I wanna know—what’s your go-to summer dessert? Something fruity, chocolatey? Hit me up! 🍰💖

Strawberry Pie Bars

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Indulge in the delightful taste of our Strawberry Pie Bars, where fresh strawberries meet a buttery shortbread crust. This irresistible dessert is perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a must-try for berry lovers!

Author: XXXXX
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Makes approximately 24 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 large lemon
½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
3 large eggs (slightly beaten)
4 cups fresh strawberries (halved)
1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
¾ cup sugar

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper.
In a stand mixer, combine flour, granulated sugar, salt, and lemon zest on low speed.
Add cold butter and mix until pea-sized pieces form.
Incorporate beaten eggs until a crumbly dough forms.
Press ⅔ of the dough into the bottom of the prepared dish.
In a bowl, mix strawberries, lemon juice, cornstarch, and sugar until combined.
Pour strawberry mixture over the crust; spread evenly.
Crumble remaining dough over the top.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown.
Let cool completely before cutting into bars.