Refreshing Strawberry Lemon Bars with Lemon Icing: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

Dive into a world of refreshing flavors with our Ultimate Strawberry Lemon Bliss Bars! Crafted for those who cherish the delightful combination of sweet and tangy, these bars are a masterpiece of flavor. Featuring a soft, moist base infused with the zest and juice of fresh lemons, complemented by the unique addition of freeze-dried strawberries, each bite is a burst of vibrant tastes. Topped with an irresistible lemon icing, these bars are a true testament to the magic of combining strawberries and lemons.

Why You’ll Love This:

These Strawberry Lemon Bliss Bars are a dream come true for lemon aficionados and those who adore the sweet, fruity kick of strawberries. The balance between the tartness of lemon and the sweetness of the icing creates a harmonious flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. The addition of freeze-dried strawberries introduces a delightful texture and concentrated berry flavor that elevates this dessert to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Perfect Occasion:

Whether you’re hosting a springtime brunch, looking for the perfect picnic treat, or simply in need of a refreshing summer dessert, these Strawberry Lemon Bliss Bars are your go-to choice. Ideal for Mother’s Day celebrations, Easter gatherings, or any moment when you crave a sweet escape into lemony bliss, these bars will surely be the highlight of your dessert table.

Decoration Tips:

To make these bars even more visually appealing, consider adding a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest over the icing for a pop of color and flavor. A few strategically placed whole or halved freeze-dried strawberries can also enhance the aesthetic appeal, hinting at the delightful flavors waiting within each bite. For an elegant touch, a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving adds a final flourish that makes these bars irresistibly inviting.

Ingredients:

• Bars:
  • 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons of softened butter
  • 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of fine sugar
  • 2 eggs at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Zest from 1 fresh lemon
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
  • Roughly 1 ounce of finely chopped freeze-dried strawberries
• Icing:
  • 1 and 1/4 cups of powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon of lemon zest (optional, for added flavor)

*Note: The recipe uses 3 medium to large lemons in total.

Method:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 338°F (170°C).
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, beat the butter and fine sugar until creamy.
3. Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract smoothly. Then, blend in the lemon zest and juice.
4. Gently fold the all-purpose flour into the mixture until just combined, followed by the freeze-dried strawberries.
5. Transfer the batter into a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes at 338°F (170°C).
6. For the icing, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled bars for a tangy finish.

Enjoy this delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for any occasion that calls for a refreshing treat.