Description
Delight in these homemade Strawberry Bars, featuring a moist, buttery base layer infused with strawberry extract, topped with a vibrant strawberry jam layer and a smooth strawberry glaze. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, these bars are an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp strawberry extract
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
Jam Layer
- 1 cup strawberry jam
Strawberry Glaze
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 strawberries, mashed
- 2-3 tsp milk
- Optional: 1/4 tsp strawberry extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Base Layer: In a large mixing bowl, cream the room temperature butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl, then gradually mix into the wet ingredients. Stir in 1 teaspoon of strawberry extract and buttermilk, blending until smooth.
- Bake the Base Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Spread the Jam Layer: Once the base has cooled but is still slightly warm, evenly spread 1 cup of strawberry jam over the top, creating a smooth layer to prepare for the glaze.
- Prepare the Strawberry Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar with the mashed strawberries and 2 to 3 teaspoons of milk. Add the optional 1/4 teaspoon strawberry extract if desired to intensify the flavor. Stir until the glaze reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust milk or powdered sugar to get the right thickness.
- Glaze the Bars: Pour the strawberry glaze evenly over the jam-topped base. Use a spatula to gently spread and cover the surface completely.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to allow the glaze to set. Once firm, cut into 9 equal bars and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for best mixing.
- Use fresh strawberries for the glaze to enhance natural flavor.
- Adjust powdered sugar in glaze to preferred sweetness and consistency.
- Allow bars to fully cool before cutting to maintain clean slices.
- Can be stored refrigerated for up to 5 days.
