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–+ servings
Fresh Strawberry Bars
Fresh Strawberry Bars blend the richness of peanut butter and butter with the sweetness of strawberries for a comforting and nostalgic treat. These bars are perfect for picnics, afternoon snacks, or casual desserts. The combination of strawberry jam and fresh strawberries on a soft, cookie-like base makes this a unique cross between a fruit bar and a blondie. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that balances creamy, crumbly, and fruity textures.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 bars
Calories 185 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ¾ cup butter (softened)
  • ¾ cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar (packed )
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup strawberry jam
  • 4 cups strawberries (small, halved or quartered)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat Oven

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a 13x9-inch baking pan with foil, extending the edges over the sides.

Step 2: Make Dough Base

  • In a large bowl, beat together butter and peanut butter until smooth.
  • Add brown sugar and granulated sugar; beat well.
  • Add baking powder and salt. Mix until combined.
  • Add eggs and vanilla; beat until fluffy.
  • Gradually stir in flour until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble Bars

  • Spread dough evenly into prepared baking pan.
  • Spread jam over the surface.
  • Top with strawberries.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

  • Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
  • Cool on a wire rack.
  • Remove using foil edges and cut into bars.

Tips

  • Use almond butter instead of peanut butter for a lighter, nuttier flavor.
  • Add ½ tsp cinnamon to the dough for warmth.
  • Swap the jam for raspberry, blackberry, or apricot.
  • Mix in ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) to the dough for crunch.
  • Use parchment paper instead of foil for easier removal.
  • Add a thin lemon glaze on top for brightness.
  • For softer bars, reduce baking time by 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Replace strawberries with mixed berries for a summer berry bar.
  • Make it a dessert plate: serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • Freeze baked bars (without fruit topping) for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 185kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 3.5gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 95mgPotassium: 115mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 220IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg
Keyword fresh strawberries, fruit bars, heirloom recipe, homemade dessert, peanut butter bars, summer baking, vintage recipe
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