Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe

Introduction

Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining a moist cake base with fresh strawberries and creamy whipped topping. They are easy to make and perfect for summer gatherings or an everyday treat.

Ingredients

• 1 box of yellow or white cake mix
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup whipped topping (such as whipped cream or Cool Whip)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven according to the cake mix package instructions. Prepare the cake batter as directed on the box.
2. Step 2: Pour the batter evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake as instructed, usually around 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Step 3: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan to prevent the whipped topping from melting.
4. Step 4: Once cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake.
5. Step 5: Arrange the sliced strawberries over the whipped topping in a single layer or slightly overlapping.
6. Step 6: Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving to let the flavors meld.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping.
• Try adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for extra sweetness.
• Substitute strawberries with other fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for variety.
• Make it gluten-free by choosing a gluten-free cake mix.

Storage

Store the strawberry shortcake bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them chilled to maintain the whipped topping’s texture. Reheat is not recommended as it can melt the whipped cream and soften the berries.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they can be assembled a few hours in advance and refrigerated until ready to serve. Just add the strawberries last to keep them fresh.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this recipe. Frozen strawberries release extra moisture and can make the bars soggy.

Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe

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Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a quick and delightful dessert featuring a soft cake base topped with fresh strawberries and a luscious whipped topping. This easy-to-make treat combines the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake in convenient bar form, perfect for parties, picnics, or any sweet craving.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Cake Base

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup water

Topping

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream or 8 oz whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for strawberries)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cake base: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and water. Stir until well blended. Pour the batter evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Bake the cake base: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the strawberries: While the cake cools, hull and slice the fresh strawberries. Optionally, toss the sliced strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar to macerate and bring out sweetness. Set aside.
4. Assemble the bars: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the whipped topping or whipped cream evenly over the surface. Arrange the sliced strawberries evenly on top of the whipped topping layer.
5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares and serving. This chilling helps the flavors meld and the bars to firm up slightly for easy handling.

Notes

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
• You can substitute the whipped topping with freshly whipped cream for a richer taste.
• Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top for extra decoration.
• Store leftover bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This recipe can be made with gluten-free cake mix to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Keywords: Strawberry shortcake bars, easy dessert, strawberry dessert, cake bars, whipped topping dessert