Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars

Name: Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Highlighted under: Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars during the warm months. They're bright, refreshing, and the perfect balance of sweet and tart. When I bite into a dense, buttery shortbread crust layered with a zesty strawberry lemonade filling, it instantly brings back memories of summer picnics and gatherings with friends. This recipe combines simple ingredients that create a vibrant, delicious dessert. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes, making it the ideal treat for any occasion!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:52:22.943Z

When I first created these Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars, I wanted to capture the essence of summer in a treat. The buttery shortbread base offers the perfect foundation for a bright strawberry lemonade filling, which is both tangy and sweet. I found that using fresh strawberries makes a significant difference, enhancing the flavor exponentially compared to frozen ones. The zest of lemon not only adds vibrancy but also balances the sweetness, creating a beautifully harmonious taste.

One tip that I always recommend is to chill the bars before cutting them. This ensures clean edges and a cleaner presentation, making them perfect for serving during gatherings or special occasions. The combination of textures—the crumbly crust and the smooth, fruity layer—creates a delightful experience in every bite. I promise, once you try them, you'll be making these year-round!

Why You'll Love These Bars
A perfect balance of sweet and zesty flavors
Buttery shortbread crust that melts in your mouth
Great for summer parties or just a delightful treat

Crafting the Perfect Shortbread Crust

The shortbread crust is the foundation of these delightful bars, providing a buttery texture that contrasts beautifully with the strawberry lemonade filling. When creaming the softened butter and powdered sugar, take your time to achieve a light and fluffy mixture. This not only enhances the texture but also adds air, making the crust melt-in-your-mouth tender. Aim to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even incorporation for the best results.

After you press the dough into your baking pan, let it bake until it reaches a light golden hue, about 20 minutes. This color indicates that the crust has set properly and will hold up under the weight of the refreshing filling. Overbaking can lead to a dry crust, so keep an eye out for those golden edges; they’re your best clue for perfect timing.

Achieving the Ideal Lemonade Filling

The vibrant lemonade filling is where the magic happens, showcasing the sweet-tart flavor profile that makes these bars irresistible. Use fresh strawberries for the puree; frozen berries can alter the juice consistency, affecting the final product. Blend the berries until smooth and strain if you prefer a seedless filling. The combination of the strawberries and lemon juice creates a bright flavor contrast to the buttery crust.

Whisking together the eggs and sugar until frothy is crucial, as this incorporates air and lightens the filling. Ensure that your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry; any grease can inhibit the eggs from fluffing properly, resulting in a denser filling. Once combined, the filling should be glossy and smooth, providing a lovely sheen that signifies it's ready for the oven.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars

For the Shortbread Crust

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemonade Filling

1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best consistency.

Instructions

Make the Shortbread Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan. Bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden.

Prepare the Lemonade Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the pureed strawberries, lemon juice, granulated sugar, and eggs. Mix in the flour and baking powder until well combined.

Combine and Bake

Pour the filling over the baked shortbread crust and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and cool completely before slicing.

Chill the bars for at least 1 hour before serving for better texture.

Pro Tips

For a decorative touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving. You can also top them with whipped cream or serve with a side of fresh strawberries.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for gatherings or meal prepping. Once cooled completely, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual bars to an airtight container. They will last up to five days in the refrigerator, retaining their flavor and texture. For an added twist, feel free to sprinkle powdered sugar on top just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Individually wrap the bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then serve them at room temperature for the best texture.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While the strawberry lemonade version is delightful, you can easily customize this recipe. For a tropical flair, swap the strawberries for ripe mango or pineapple puree, adjusting the lemon juice to maintain the tartness. Alternatively, you might try adding a hint of lavender or vanilla to the filling for an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the fruity notes.

Consider serving these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. Garnishing with fresh strawberry slices or lemon zest can elevate their presentation, making them a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table. These bars not only taste fantastic but also bring a pop of color that is sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are preferred for flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if they are thawed and well-drained.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I substitute for the lemons?

If you want a different flavor, you can substitute limes or use a commercial lemonade concentrate.