Strawberry Crumb Bars

Strawberry Crumb Bars are a buttery, fruity dessert that perfectly blends a soft shortbread-like base, a juicy fresh strawberry filling, and a golden crumb topping. These bars are simple to make, slice beautifully, and are ideal for spring and summer occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with basic pantry ingredients
• Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor
• Perfectly sweet with a hint of tartness
• Great for picnics, parties, or as a casual treat
• Can be made ahead and freezes well

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Cold unsalted butter
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Fresh strawberries
• Cornstarch

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare the crust and topping: In a mixing bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Stir in the beaten egg and vanilla until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Form the base: Press a little more than half of the dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
4. Make the strawberry filling: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped strawberries with sugar and cornstarch. Stir well to coat.
5. Layer the filling: Evenly spread the strawberry mixture over the crust.
6. Top with crumbs: Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the strawberry layer.
7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the strawberries are bubbling.
8. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into bars.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Mixed Berry Crumb Bars: Combine strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
• Lemon Zest Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the crumb mixture for a citrusy twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds or pecans to the topping for added texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute in place of all-purpose flour.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Let frozen bars thaw at room temperature, or microwave for 15–20 seconds to soften.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well before using to avoid extra moisture in the bars.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! They store well and are easy to make a day or two in advance.

How do I keep the base from becoming soggy?

Drain any excess liquid from the strawberries before layering them on the crust.

Can I add oats to the crumb topping?

Yes, about 1/4 cup of rolled oats mixed into the topping will add great texture.

Is it necessary to use parchment paper?

It’s highly recommended for easy removal and clean slicing of the bars.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase baking time by 5–10 minutes if needed.

Are these bars overly sweet?

They’re balanced with just the right amount of sweetness and a slight tartness from the strawberries.

Can I use a different fruit?

Definitely. Raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches work well.

Do these need to be refrigerated?

Not necessarily, but refrigeration helps them firm up and makes them easier to slice.

Can I add a glaze on top?

Yes, a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk drizzled on top is a tasty finishing touch.

Conclusion

Strawberry Crumb Bars are the ultimate fruit dessert—simple, satisfying, and bursting with fresh flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or just need a sweet pick-me-up, these bars are sure to impress. Easy to make and even easier to eat, they’ll become a fast favorite in your recipe box.

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