Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prep crust and fruit the night before and bake the next day. It saves time when afternoons are busy. I also sometimes bake the whole pan in the morning and warm a few squares for dessert.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw them first and drain excess water. Frozen berries add more moisture, so reduce a small amount of juice by pressing gently. Using cornstarch helps firm the filling.

How can I make the bars less sweet?

Reduce the granulated sugar in the filling by a tablespoon or two. If your strawberries are very ripe and sweet, you may cut sugar further. Add a splash of lemon juice to balance sweetness.

Do these freeze well?

They freeze nicely. Wrap individual bars for best texture and thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm briefly in a low oven if you want them hot.

A 9x9 inch baking pan works perfectly for this recipe. Use an oven-safe pan with a fairly low rim for even baking. A light-colored pan gives more even color to the crust.

Easy Strawberry Shortcake Bars 2026

Description

Delicious and easy-to-make strawberry shortcake bars with a buttery crust and sweet strawberry filling, perfect for busy families.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
Mix flour, powdered sugar, salt, and softened butter until crumbly. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Watch for golden edges.
Combine strawberries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch in another bowl. Toss gently and let sit for 5 minutes. Stir until the fruit releases some juice.
Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the baked crust. Use a spatula to press slightly so the berries settle into the crust.
Return to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes or until the strawberries are bubbly. Look for deep ruby color and bubbling in the center.
Allow to cool before slicing into bars, letting it rest so the filling sets and is easier to slice.

Notes

For a glossy finish, brush the top lightly with a thin sugar syrup after baking. For cleaner slices, chill the bars for at least 30 minutes before cutting.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American