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Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe

4.9 from 8 reviews

Delight in these Strawberry Shortcake Bars, a perfect blend of buttery shortcake, juicy fresh strawberries, and optional creamy whipped topping or powdered sugar. This easy-to-make dessert bar offers the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake in a convenient, sliceable form—ideal for potlucks, picnics, or a sweet treat at home.

Ingredients

Scale

For the shortcake base:

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the filling:

  • 2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sweetening berries)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the topping (optional):

  • Whipped cream or stabilized whipped topping
  • White chocolate drizzle or powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Prep the pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the shortcake base: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until the batter is smooth and well combined.
  3. Add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, forming a thick dough.
  4. Layer the batter: Spread approximately two-thirds of the dough evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan to create the shortcake base.
  5. Prepare the strawberries: Toss the chopped fresh strawberries with cornstarch and the optional tablespoon of sugar to thicken and lightly sweeten the filling. Spread this strawberry mixture evenly over the dough layer in the pan.
  6. Top with remaining dough: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the strawberry layer. The dough won’t cover the strawberries completely, but this is intentional for texture and appearance.
  7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool and top: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Before serving, optionally top with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle with white chocolate for added indulgence. Slice into bars and serve.

Notes

  • To keep the strawberry filling from becoming too watery, ensure the cornstarch is well mixed with the berries.
  • If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing with cornstarch.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative and use plant-based whipped topping.
  • These bars are best served the same day or within 1–2 days for optimal freshness.
  • You can customize the topping by using fresh sliced strawberries or a strawberry glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: Strawberry Shortcake Bars, dessert bars, strawberry dessert, shortcake recipe, easy strawberry bars