Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe

Update : March 11, 2026

Delicious strawberry shortcake bars topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream

why make this recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a delicious and easy dessert that brings the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake into a simple bar form. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home, these bars combine a crumbly crust, fresh strawberries, and a light vanilla glaze. They are easy to make and great for sharing, making them a favorite among family and friends.

how to make Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups (250g) all-purpose flour
⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
3 tablespoon (45g) packed light brown sugar
¾ cup (170g) salted butter, melted (or add a pinch of salt if using unsalted butter)
1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract
3 cups (400g) chopped fresh strawberries (each strawberry quartered then halved to yield about 8 pieces per strawberry)
2 tablespoon (25g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon (9g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
1 tablespoon (15ml) light or heavy whipping cream
¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving about a 2-inch overhang on each side for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt (if using unsalted butter). Mix thoroughly to eliminate any lumps, especially of brown sugar. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and stir with a spoon. Use your fingertips to toss and form large crumbs.
Take about two-thirds of this crumb mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan using floured hands and an offset spatula to smooth the surface. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is lightly golden and set aside to cool slightly.
In another bowl, mix together the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and all-purpose flour carefully to coat the fruit evenly. Spoon this strawberry mixture evenly over the slightly cooled baked crust.
Crumble the remaining one-third of the crust mixture evenly on top of the strawberry layer. The strawberries will remain visible between crumbs. Bake again for 30-35 minutes until the strawberry juices are bubbling and the crumb topping turns golden brown. Remove from oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this vanilla glaze evenly over the cooled bars. Once glazed, cut into 12 bars and serve.

how to serve Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Serve Strawberry Shortcake Bars at room temperature or slightly chilled. They are perfect on their own, but you can also enjoy them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

how to store Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Store the Strawberry Shortcake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

tips to make Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
Be careful not to overmix the crumb mixture; you want it to remain crumbly.
Let the bars cool completely before adding the glaze to ensure a nice finish.

variation (if any)

For a twist, try adding a layer of whipped cream or yogurt between the strawberry layer and the crumb topping. You can also replace strawberries with other fruits like blueberries or peaches to create different flavor combinations.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I use instead of butter?
You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a non-dairy option. Adjust the melting process accordingly.