Remember when summers seemed to last forever? Simple treats brought us so much joy. Those moments with family over homemade desserts are precious. Today, you can relive that happiness with a strawberry bar cake.
This strawberry bar cake is more than a treat. It’s a trip back to carefree days. Its crunchy toppings and creamy center are everything you love about homemade treats. It’s perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or just a craving for the past.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Strawberry Bar Cake
Looking for a sweet treat with a crunchy twist? Try the *strawberry bar cake* recipe. It’s a tasty mix of sweetness and crunch, like Good Humor strawberry shortcake bars.
This cake is easy to make with simple ingredients and steps. It’s creamy and crunchy, a perfect dessert.
It takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes to make. You get 12 slices, each with 487 calories, 24 grams of fat, and 5 grams of protein.
To make this cake, you need 6 large eggs, 2/3 cup of vegetable oil, and 2 cups of water. The frosting has 16 oz of cream cheese and 6 cups of powdered sugar. The crunchy topping includes 24 Golden Oreo cookies, 12 strawberry wafer cookies, and 1.2 oz of freeze-dried strawberries.
Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Let the cake cool for an hour before frosting. Chill the crumb coat for 20 minutes and the whole cake for at least an hour.
This cake stays fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze it for 2 months, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients for Strawberry Bar Cake
Making a strawberry bar cake starts with picking the right ingredients. Knowing what you need helps make it your own. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make this tasty treat.
Basic Ingredients
First, you’ll need these basic things:
- Cake Base: Pick a boxed mix or make it from scratch. You’ll need flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, and eggs.
- Butter: Use 1 cup of melted butter for flavor and moisture.
- Strawberry Components: Use 1 1/2 cups of chopped strawberries and 1 cup of strawberry jam.
- Vanilla Extract: Add 2 teaspoons for extra taste.
Optional Ingredients
Want to add more flavor and texture? Try these:
- Crumble Topping: Mix 2 cups of freeze-dried strawberries and Golden Oreos for a crunchy topping.
- Strawberry Gelatin: Add a bit of gelatin for more strawberry taste.
- No-Bake Variation: Try a graham cracker crust for a no-bake version.
Using these ingredients, your strawberry bar cake will look and taste amazing. It’s a great choice for anyone who loves desserts.
How to Make Strawberry Bar Cake
Making a strawberry bar cake is fun and rewarding. Follow these steps to make delicious sweet strawberry dessert bars. Each step will help your fruity bar cake turn out great.
Preparation Steps
First, get all your ingredients ready to save time. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (from 2 small lemons)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup fresh strawberries, cleaned and diced
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9 x 9-inch baking pan. You can line it with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
Baking Steps
Start by mixing the dry ingredients. In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, mix 1 cup of butter and 3/4 cup of sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Add the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice and mix well.
Then, gently mix in the diced strawberries. Pour the mix into the prepared pan and spread it out. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool before adding the crunchy topping.
To make the crunchy topping, mix 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Sprinkle it over the cooled cake. Your sweet strawberry dessert bars are now ready to enjoy!
The Role of Fresh Strawberries in the Recipe
The secret to a great fresh strawberry dessert is the quality of the strawberries. Their sweetness and firmness make any dish better, like the best strawberry bar cake. Let’s see how to pick and use the best strawberries for your dish.
Choosing the Best Strawberries
For the best strawberry bar cake, pick strawberries that are ripe and smell sweet. They should be bright in color and smell strong. This means they are fresh and will make your dessert taste amazing.
You’ll need about 1 cup of diced fresh strawberries for the recipe. Good berries make your dessert taste better and feel nicer to eat.
Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries
Fresh strawberries are usually better because they are sweeter and firmer. But, frozen strawberries are good too, if you can’t find fresh ones. Just remember, frozen strawberries might change how your dessert feels and tastes.
Fresh strawberries give a better taste and look. But, if you use frozen, you might need to add less liquid to avoid too much water.
Frozen strawberries are easy to find and can make your dessert tasty. The key is to choose the best strawberries you can find, whether fresh or frozen.
In short, whether you pick fresh or frozen strawberries, the quality matters a lot. It will make your fresh strawberry dessert a hit.
Substitutions and Variations
Making homemade strawberry treats is fun because you can try new things. You can change ingredients to fit special diets or add a unique flavor. This makes your delicious bar cake recipe even better.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change ingredients without losing flavor. For a gluten-free cake, use 2 ½ cups of gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you want a dairy-free version, use 1 ½ cups of softened plant-based margarine instead of butter.
For the frosting, you can use non-dairy cream cheese and vegan butter. Use 2 (8-oz.) packages of vegan cream cheese and ½ cup of vegan butter. You can also use sugar-free powdered sweetener for fewer calories.
Flavor Variations
You can make your cake taste different by adding new flavors. Add lemon zest or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a fresh taste. Try adding cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor.
In the compote, mix in other berries like raspberries or blueberries with the strawberries. You can also add a tablespoon of rum for a richer taste. Or, use lemon juice for a tangy flavor.
The best part of this recipe is trying new things. By changing ingredients and flavors, you can make it your own. Whether it’s a classic treat or something new, it’s all about being creative.
Tips for a Perfect Strawberry Bar Cake
Making a perfect strawberry bar cake is easy. Follow these expert tips for a simple strawberry dessert that always impresses.
Baking Tips
Don’t overmix the batter. This makes the cake dense. Mix just until everything is combined.
Bake at 350°F for 30 to 34 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean. Make sure to evenly divide the batter.
Grease pans with shortening to prevent sticking. Let the layers cool before you put them together. This keeps the frosting from melting.
For a moist cake, use the right mix of ingredients. Use 1 cup of milk for every 2 cups of flour. Also, use 1 cup of butter for every 1 1/2 cups of sugar.
Presentation Tips
Presentation makes your dessert special. Chill the cake for 30 minutes before frosting. This helps the layers stick together.
Use 1 1/4 cups of frosting for a smooth finish. Add fresh strawberry slices and crunch topping for elegance. This makes your cake look amazing.
For a shiny finish, frost the cake twice. First, a crumb coat, then a smooth layer. Slice the cake thinly for 10 servings. This makes it look great at parties.
Popular Strawberry Jam Swirl
Adding a strawberry jam swirl to your dessert bars makes them look and taste great. Here’s how to make a perfect jam swirl with homemade or store-bought jam.
Making Homemade Strawberry Jam
To make a tasty jam, cook down 6 ounces of fresh strawberries. Add 5 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Simmer until it thickens, about 20 minutes. Once it cools, you’ll have homemade jam to swirl into your bars.
Using Store-Bought Jam
If you’re in a hurry, use store-bought jam. Choose high-quality jams like Smucker’s® or Bonne Maman®. Spoon the jam onto the batter and swirl it with a knife for a marbled look.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Chill Time: 6 hours and 5 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours and 10 minutes
A strawberry jam swirl, homemade or store-bought, adds joy to your dessert bars. It makes your fruity bar cake a memorable treat.
Understanding the Nutritional Benefits
Enjoying a fresh strawberry dessert like the best strawberry bar cake is tasty and good for you. Knowing what’s in it and how many calories it has helps you choose wisely.
Healthy Ingredients
Fresh strawberries are key in any strawberry dessert. They’re full of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. These berries are great for your heart and have few calories.
Other good things in the best strawberry bar cake are whole grains and nuts. They add fiber and healthy fats. Natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup are also used. They’re better than refined sugars.
Caloric Information
Knowing how many calories your dessert has is important. Here’s what a strawberry bar cake usually has:
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per 85 g bar | Per 40 g bar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 421 kcal | 358 kcal | 168 kcal |
| Total Fat | 16 g | 13.6 g | 6.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.0 g | 8.5 g | 4.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45.0 g | 38.3 g | 18.0 g |
| Sugars | 30.5 g | 25.9 g | 12.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.7 g | 1.4 g | 0.7 g |
| Protein | 24.8 g | 21.1 g | 9.9 g |
| Salt | 0.5 g | 0.4 g | 0.2 g |
| L-glutamine | 0.6 g | 0.5 g | 0.2 g |
| BCAA | 3.8 g | 3.2 g | 1.5 g |
With this info, you can see why your favorite strawberry dessert is good for you. It’s a tasty and healthy choice.
Alternative Toppings for Your Bar Cake
Adding flavor and looks to your strawberry bar cake is easy with the right toppings. You can choose from simple to creamy toppings. Here are two great choices:
Powdered Sugar Glaze
A powdered sugar glaze is perfect for a sweet touch. It adds a sugary crust that goes well with strawberries. It’s simple to make and tastes great.
“The powdered sugar glaze not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful sweetness that makes each bite perfect.”
Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream cheese frosting is rich and tangy. It’s great for those who like complex flavors. It makes your strawberry bars even more tempting.
| Topping | Flavor | Texture | Ease of Preparation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powdered Sugar Glaze | Sweet and Light | Thin and Crusty | Very Easy |
| Cream Cheese Frosting | Rich and Tangy | Thick and Creamy | Moderate |
Try these toppings to make your strawberry bar cake special. You’ll impress everyone with a dessert that looks and tastes amazing.
Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to serve your tasty bar cake recipe. It’s perfect for a summer picnic or a fancy anniversary. This strawberry bar cake is a hit at any event and goes well with different drinks.
Occasions
A homemade strawberry treat is great for any special event. Here are some ideas:
- Birthday Parties: Surprise guests with this special cake.
- Summer Picnics: It’s light and perfect for outdoor fun.
- Anniversaries: Make it the main attraction for your celebration.
Beverage Pairings
Choosing the right drink can make your meal better. Try these:
- Sparkling Wine: It matches the cake’s lightness well.
- Light Teas: They bring out the fruit flavors without being too strong.
- Gourmet Coffees: A rich coffee can be a nice contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
How you serve and pair this cake will impress your guests. Enjoy every bite of your strawberry bar cake!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Bar Cake
This easy strawberry bar recipe is special. It has a mix of textures and tastes that remind you of childhood treats. The base is buttery and chewy, while the strawberry layer is sweet and tangy.
Key Highlights
This easy strawberry bar recipe is quick to make. It only takes one hour to make 18 delicious squares. The ingredients are simple, like freeze-dried strawberries and Greek yogurt, but the taste is top-notch.
Strawberry crumble bars are great for any occasion. They impress at family gatherings or weekend treats. The layers of soft, chewy, gooey, and crunchy make each bite special.
User Reviews
Many people love these strawberry crumble bars. Jane from Los Angeles says they’re a hit at parties. Mark from New York loves the gooey center and crunchy top.
People also like the bars’ health benefits. With 469 kcal per serving, they’re a tasty, guilt-free treat. Greek yogurt makes them healthier without losing flavor.
Overall, making and eating this easy strawberry bar recipe is a joy.
Frequently Used Baking Tools
When making a simple strawberry dessert or sweet strawberry bars, the right tools are key. They make baking easier and help your dessert turn out great. Here’s a list of tools you’ll need for baking.
Essential Tools
These tools are a must for making your perfect dessert:
- Stand Mixer – 70% of home bakers say it’s essential for easy mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – 65% of bakers use them for exact measurements.
- Baking Pans – 15% of bakers buy high-quality pans for better results.
- Silicone Baking Mats – 50% of bakers like them for easy use and cleaning.
- Food Scale – 45% of bakers use it for precise measurements, important in baking.
- Whisk – 40% of bakers say a good whisk makes mixing better.
- Rolling Pin – 35% of bakers use it for making pastry.
Optional Tools
These tools are nice to have but not necessary:
- Baking Thermometer – 30% of bakers use it for the right oven temperature.
- Bench Scraper – 25% of bakers use it for cutting dough.
- Pastry Brush – 20% of bakers find it useful for glazing.
- 16-inch Piping Bag – Good for fancy frosting, like with strawberries.
- Meringue Powder – Optional but helps make buttercream fluffy.
Having both essential and optional tools makes baking fun and easy. Enjoy making your desserts!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect fruity bar cake needs careful attention. We’ll look at common mistakes in baking and picking ingredients. This way, your strawberry treats will be the best.
Baking Errors
It’s very important to keep your oven at the right temperature. Make sure it’s at 350 degrees F. If you use darker pans, it’s 325 degrees F. Wrong temperatures can make your cake dry or not even.
Don’t overmix or undermix your batter. Mix it just until it’s combined. This helps your cake stay soft and moist.
Another mistake is not cooling and rolling the cake right. Roll it immediately after baking to avoid cracks. Also, let it chill in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours. This makes sure it sets well.
Ingredient Mistakes
Using the wrong ingredients can ruin your cake’s taste and texture. Use the exact amounts called for, like 4 large eggs and ¾ cup sugar in the batter. For the filling, use 6 ounces cream cheese and 1 ¼ cup Cool Whip.
Don’t swap out important ingredients like fresh strawberries. They taste much better than frozen ones. Fresh strawberries add a great flavor and keep the cake moist.
Knowing these mistakes helps make your strawberry treats perfect every time. With these tips, you’ll make delicious fruity bar cakes that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Your Strawberry Bar Cake
Keeping your strawberry bar cake fresh is easy. You can store it in the fridge or freezer. These tips will help keep it tasty and moist.
Refrigeration Tips
Refrigerating your cake keeps it moist and tasty. Use plastic wrap or an airtight container to avoid drying. It stays fresh for up to 5 days.
If you have frosting, chill the cake for 30 minutes first. This stops the frosting from smudging. It’s perfect for enjoying all week.
Freezing Tips
Freezing is great for longer storage. Cut the cake into squares and wrap each in plastic and foil. Then, put them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. This keeps it moist and flavorful. It’s great for keeping the cake fresh for weeks.
| Step | Detail | Time/Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Cream Heating | Microwave heavy cream | 1-2 minutes |
| White Chocolate Rest | Sit in warm cream | 2 minutes |
| Cream Cooling | Refrigerate | 2 hours |
| Strawberry Puree Reduction | Reduce to 1 cup | 30-40 minutes |
| Butter and Sugar Mixing | Mix until fluffy | 4-5 minutes |
| Egg Whites Addition | Add one at a time | 10 seconds each |
| Mixing Strawberry Mixture | Combine with dry ingredients | 20 seconds (first half), 15 seconds (second half) |
| Batter Division | Divide among cake pans | – |
| Baking Time | Bake cakes | 26-30 minutes |
| Cooling After Baking | Cool in pan | 10 minutes |
| Frosting Mixing | Mix ingredients | 3-4 minutes |
| Final Refrigeration | Set cake after frosting | 30 minutes |
Creating a Vegan Strawberry Bar Cake
Want a treat that’s kind to animals? Try a vegan strawberry bar cake. It’s easy to make and animal-friendly.
Substitute Ingredients
To make a vegan cake, you need to swap some ingredients. Here’s what to do:
- Butter: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead.
- Eggs: Mix flax eggs or aquafaba for each egg.
- Milk: Choose almond milk or soy milk.
- Strawberry Jam: Pick a jam that’s gelatin-free and uses pectin.
Vegan Baking Tips
For a great vegan cake, follow these tips:
- Temperature & Timing: Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before cooling further.
- Moisture Balance: Add a bit of almond milk if the batter is too thick.
- Texture: Use bananas or applesauce to keep the cake moist. Two large bananas work well.
- Storage: Keep it in the fridge for a week or freeze for 6 months. You can also freeze individual portions.
Start making your vegan strawberry bar cake today. It’s a simple and tasty dessert for everyone!
Strawberry Bar Cake: A Perfect Summer Dessert
This summer strawberry bar cake is a great way to enjoy fresh strawberries. It’s light and fruity, perfect for summer gatherings. Whether it’s a picnic or a big outdoor event, it’s a hit.
Seasonal Appeal
The charm of this dessert comes from using fresh strawberries. They add a burst of flavor, fitting for spring and summer. The cake, glazes, and garnishes celebrate the season.
Lemon zest and juice add a refreshing touch. This makes the cake even more tempting.
Outdoor Event Ideas
This cake is not only tasty but also easy to take to outdoor events. It’s great for picnics, beach trips, and garden parties. Slice it into bars for a mess-free snack.
Its bright colors and fresh strawberries make it a stunning dessert. It’s perfect for making your event Instagram-worthy. It’s great for any size gathering, from small family parties to big community events.
Conclusion
Making the best strawberry bar cake is fun. You start by picking the freshest strawberries. Then, you mix them with good stuff like flour, butter, and vanilla.
This cake is sweet and a little tart. It’s sure to be a hit at home.
Our guide helps you make a cake that tastes great and looks amazing. You can top it with powdered sugar or cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for any special event or just a yummy treat.
Try baking this cake and enjoy its yummy taste and texture. You can also add your own special touches. We want to hear about your creations. Let’s make more delicious memories together!
FAQ
What is a Strawberry Bar Cake?
A Strawberry Bar Cake is a yummy dessert. It has a crunchy top and a creamy middle. It’s great for birthdays or summer parties.
What are the basic ingredients needed for a Strawberry Bar Cake?
You need a cake base, like vanilla or strawberry. You can use boxed mixes or make it from scratch. Ingredients include flour, baking powder, eggs, milk, and strawberry puree.
Are there any optional ingredients that can enhance the Strawberry Bar Cake?
Yes, you can add Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries to the top. Strawberry gelatin or a no-bake version with a graham cracker crust are also good options.
How do I choose the best strawberries for this cake?
Pick ripe, red strawberries with a strong smell. They taste the best and look great.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen strawberries work too. But fresh ones taste sweeter and are firmer.
Are there any ingredient substitutions for dietary preferences?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour or dairy substitutes for vegans. Coconut milk is a good milk substitute.
What are some flavor variations I can try?
Try different fruits or add lemon zest or cinnamon. It makes the cake unique.
How do I avoid common baking errors like a dense cake?
Don’t overmix the batter. Check if the cake is done with a toothpick.
What are some presentation tips for the Strawberry Bar Cake?
Use frosting layers and fresh strawberry slices for garnish. Spread the crunch topping evenly.
Should I make homemade strawberry jam or use store-bought?
Homemade jam is rich and flavorful. But good store-bought jams save time and taste great.
What are the nutritional benefits of a Strawberry Bar Cake?
Fresh strawberries add vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. They make the cake healthier and tasty.
Can I add alternative toppings like a powdered sugar glaze?
Yes, a powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting adds a nice touch. They make the cake light or rich.
What occasions are best suited for serving Strawberry Bar Cake?
It’s perfect for birthdays, summer picnics, anniversaries, and any party. It impresses guests with its sweet, fruity taste.
What beverages pair well with Strawberry Bar Cake?
Sparkling wine, light teas, or gourmet coffees are great pairings. They enhance the cake’s flavors.
What are the necessary baking tools to make this cake?
You need mixers, baking pans, and measuring tools. Silicone spatulas and decorating tools are nice extras.
How should I store my Strawberry Bar Cake?
Cover the cake and keep it in the fridge. Freeze it for longer storage. Wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
How can I make this cake vegan-friendly?
Use vegan substitutes for eggs, butter, and cream. Follow vegan baking tips for the right texture and flavor.
Why is Strawberry Bar Cake an ideal summer dessert?
It’s fresh and fruity, perfect for summer. It’s light and refreshing, great for outdoor events.