Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars

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

Highlighted under: Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars during the warmer months. The bright flavors of sweet strawberries and zesty lemons create a refreshing treat that’s perfect for picnics or dessert tables. These bars are a delightful combination of crumbly shortbread and a tangy lemonade filling, and they are surprisingly easy to whip up. In just a bit of time, you can bring a burst of summer cheer to your home with these irresistible desserts that are sure to impress.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:56:20.841Z

When I first made these Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars, I was amazed at how remarkably easy they were to prepare. The buttery shortbread serves as the perfect canvas for the zesty lemonade and fresh strawberry filling, offering both flavor and texture. I found that using fresh, ripe strawberries really enhances the sweetness, making each bite irresistible.

One of my favorite tips is to let the bars chill completely before cutting them. This allows the filling to set nicely, ensuring clean and beautiful slices. Trust me, the wait is worth it when you taste that delightful combination of tangy and sweet!

Why You'll Love These Bars
A delightful balance of sweetness and tartness in every bite
The buttery crust complements the fruity filling perfectly
Perfect for warm weather gatherings and barbecues

Understanding the Ingredients

The buttery shortbread crust forms the foundation of these bars, providing not only a delightful crunch but also a subtle richness that complements the tangy lemonade filling. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe, ensuring that the flavors balance perfectly. Be sure to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy; this process incorporates air, which contributes to a tender texture. If you prefer a less rich taste, you can substitute half of the butter with a neutral oil, but it may slightly alter the texture.

When it comes to the filling, fresh lemon juice and zest are crucial for achieving that bright, zesty flavor that defines lemonade. I recommend using fresh lemons instead of bottled juice to capture the essential oils found in the zest, which add aromatic depth to the bars. Additionally, fresh strawberries not only provide a vibrant color but also enhance the overall flavor profile. If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with pureed raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity twist.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Achieving the right texture in the shortbread crust is key. You want it to be slightly golden around the edges after baking, which typically takes about 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-baking, which can lead to a dry crust. If you find that your crust is not holding together well after cooling, it may have been overworked during mixing; in future attempts, aim for just combined when incorporating the flour.

For the lemonade filling, it is important to mix until smooth but avoid over-whisking, which can incorporate too much air and make the filling puff up when baking. The filling should slightly jiggle in the center when you take it out of the oven, as it will continue to set as it cools. Allow the bars to cool completely before refrigerating; chilling for at least an hour makes cutting them into neat squares easier and helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars:

For the Shortbread Crust

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

For the Lemonade Filling

1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and at room temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your strawberry lemonade shortbread bars:

Preheat the oven and prepare the pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Make the shortbread crust

In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a dough forms. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

Bake the crust

Bake the shortbread crust in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Prepare the lemonade filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, pureed strawberries, and flour until smooth and combined.

Add filling and bake

Pour the lemonade filling over the cooled shortbread crust and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is set. Allow to cool completely in the pan.

Chill and serve

Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares. Serve chilled.

Enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving, or add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a charming presentation.

Storage Tips

To keep your Strawberry Lemonade Shortbread Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about a week, although I find they taste best within the first few days. If you prefer to enjoy them at room temperature, simply let them sit out for about 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to shine through.

If you want to make these bars ahead of time, consider freezing them. After cutting into squares, individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, simply place in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour.

Serving Suggestions

These bars shine on their own, but you can elevate them further with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing with fresh mint or additional sliced strawberries to enhance the presentation for gatherings. They are ideal for serving at summer parties, picnics, or even as a light dessert after dinner.

For a fun twist, you could serve these bars alongside a refreshing glass of homemade strawberry lemonade. Mixing the same ingredients in beverage form can create a delightful pairing that emphasizes the vibrant flavors of the bars and makes for a cohesive and satisfying summer treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before pureeing.

→ How long can I store these bars?

The bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I substitute the lemon juice with another citrus?

Absolutely! You can use lime juice or orange juice for a different flavor profile.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for the crust.