Imagine taking a bite of summer: sweet, juicy strawberries layered between a buttery, lemon-zest-studded crust and crumbly topping. That’s exactly what you get with these Strawberry Pie Bars. Every bar brings together the classic allure of a strawberry pie and the ease of a handheld treat, making them perfect for picnics, sharing, or sneaking from the fridge as a midnight snack. Simple to make and utterly irresistible, these bars are sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation.

Strawberry Pie Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Strawberry Pie Bars so irresistible? It’s all about starting with the best ingredients. Each one adds something special—richness, brightness, sweetness, or that picture-perfect pop of red. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

Flour (3 cups): The base of our dough, giving structure and a tender bite to both crust and crumbly topping.
Granulated sugar (1½ cups + ¾ cup): Adds sweetness to the crust and just the right balance for the strawberry filling.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances flavor and keeps the bars from tasting flat.
Lemon zest (from 1 large lemon): Brings a fresh, citrusy zing that complements the strawberries perfectly.
Unsalted butter (½ cup, cold and cubed): For that rich, tender, and flaky crumb you crave.
Eggs (3, slightly beaten): Help bind the dough while adding softness and structure.
Fresh strawberries (4 cups, halved): The undeniable star—fresh, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
Fresh-squeezed lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the filling and balances the sweetness.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the strawberry filling just enough so it sets into dreamy perfection.

How to Make Strawberry Pie Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a generous overhang on the sides. This little trick is a baker’s secret—it makes lifting the bars out and slicing them a total breeze once they’ve cooled.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, 1½ cups granulated sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Mix on low speed until everything’s evenly distributed. The lemon zest is going to wake up those flavors and add a hint of brightness throughout every bite.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Keep the mixer on low and watch as the butter works its magic: the mixture should start forming pea-sized crumbs, giving your bars that classic tender texture.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Pour in the beaten eggs and let your mixer run just until a crumbly dough forms. This combination brings the dough together while keeping it pleasantly chunky—perfect for pressing into a crust and sprinkling on top later.

Step 5: Press the Crust

Take about two-thirds of your dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Press firmly so you get a sturdy base without any cracks. Set the remaining dough aside for your crumbly topping.

Step 6: Make the Strawberry Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved strawberries, lemon juice, cornstarch, and ¾ cup granulated sugar. Toss everything together until the berries are coated, glossy, and ready for their moment in the spotlight.

Step 7: Layer the Filling

Gently pour the strawberry mixture over the crust in your pan and spread it into an even layer with a spatula. This ensures every bite of your Strawberry Pie Bars has that juicy, jammy goodness.

Step 8: Add the Crumble Topping

Crumble the remaining dough over the strawberry filling, scattering small clumps to create pockets of crunch and a rustic, bakery-worthy look.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The top should be lightly golden and the strawberries bubbling merrily. Your kitchen will smell like pure heaven!

Step 10: Cool Completely & Slice

Once golden and set, pull the pan from the oven and resist temptation—let the bars cool completely in the pan. This step is key for clean slices and that perfect bar texture. When cool, use the parchment to lift the whole thing onto a cutting board and slice into squares or bars.

How to Serve Strawberry Pie Bars

Garnishes

Dress up your Strawberry Pie Bars with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze. Fresh mint leaves or lemon zest curls give each piece a finishing touch that makes them party-ready in seconds.

Side Dishes

For a dessert plate that wows, serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A handful of fresh berries on the side or a glass of cold milk completes the cozy, homey vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the bars on a pretty cake stand for a charming centerpiece, or pack them into mason jars layered with extra strawberries and whipped cream for a picnic-perfect treat. You can even wrap them individually in parchment for delightful lunchbox or bake sale surprises.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep Strawberry Pie Bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They’re perfect for make-ahead entertaining or grabbing a sweet bite on the go.

Freezing

To freeze, let the bars cool completely, then cut and wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or foil. Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge whenever a strawberry craving strikes!

Reheating

If you love warm desserts, pop a Strawberry Pie Bar in the microwave for about 10-20 seconds or reheat in a low oven. This “just-baked” effect brings out the fruity aroma and softens the crumb for ultimate comfort food vibes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw, drain well, and pat the strawberries dry before using. This keeps the bars from turning soggy while still packing all that berry goodness.

Can I make Strawberry Pie Bars gluten-free?

Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend; just ensure it includes a binder like xanthan gum for similar structure and texture.

Do I need to refrigerate the bars?

For short-term storage (1-2 days), they’re fine at room temperature, but refrigerating them helps them stay fresh and firm for up to 5 days—especially in warmer weather.

Can I use other fruit?

You sure can! Blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix of berries will work beautifully in place of, or alongside, strawberries for fun flavor twists.

Why is it important to let the bars cool completely?

Cooling allows the filling to set, making it far easier to cut neat, sturdy bars that hold together (and taste just as good as they look).

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a joyful, easy-to-share dessert, these Strawberry Pie Bars are the answer. They combine everything you love about homemade pies in a playful, no-fuss package. Go ahead—bake a batch and bring a little extra sunshine to your kitchen today!