Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars

Name: Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings

I absolutely love baking during the spring, and these Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars are one of my favorite treats! The burst of fresh strawberry flavor paired with the soft, chewy sugar cookie base makes for a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. I enjoy making these bars for family gatherings or simply to sweeten up our weekends. The vibrant colors and fruity aroma that fill my kitchen just add to the joy of baking. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:56:49.040Z

When I first made these Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars, I was amazed at how a simple recipe could transform fresh strawberries into an indulgent dessert. The key is in using ripe strawberries; this enhances both the flavor and the moisture of the bars. I like to mash some of the strawberries into the dough and leave a few chunks for added texture. It's these small tweaks that elevate the overall experience!

I've experimented with this recipe over the years, finding that chilling the dough for just a few minutes before baking results in thicker bars that hold their shape beautifully. Trust me, letting that dough chill makes a noticeable difference in both appearance and taste. I can't help but share these bars with friends—they're always a hit!

Why You Will Love These Bars
Deliciously sweet and slightly tart with fresh strawberries
Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth
Visually stunning, perfect for any spring gathering

Perfecting Texture

The success of these Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars greatly relies on achieving the ideal balance between a chewy and soft texture. When creaming together the butter and sugar, make sure to do so until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This process incorporates air, leading to a tender and airy bar. Overmixing at the later stages can deflate the air pockets, resulting in denser bars, so mix gently once you add the dry ingredients.

Additionally, accurate measuring is key. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure that you're using precisely 2 cups of all-purpose flour. If you pack the flour too densely, you might end up with a dry texture that contradicts the desired chewiness. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for consistent results.

Strawberry Selection and Preparation

Choosing ripe and flavorful strawberries is crucial for maximizing the fruity goodness in these bars. Look for berries that are bright red, firm to the touch, and free from blemishes. If fresh strawberries are out of season, feel free to use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could affect the final texture.

When chopping strawberries for the batter, aim for bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the bars. I personally like to chop them small enough that they integrate well, but not so small that they disappear. This way, you get delightful bursts of strawberry flavor with each bite!

Ingredients

For the Cookie Bars

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

Make sure your strawberries are fresh and ripe for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine and Add Strawberries

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped strawberries gently.

Bake the Bars

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy these delightful bars with a cup of tea or share them with friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted white chocolate over the bars before serving.

Storing and Freezing

These Spring Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars can be stored at room temperature for up to three days in an airtight container, ensuring they remain soft and delicious. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut the cooled bars into squares, and layer them with parchment paper before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

It's important to allow the bars to cool completely before storing or freezing them, as excess moisture can lead to soggy bars. If you notice any condensation inside the container when thawing from the freezer, it's best to let them sit uncovered for a bit to recover their texture.

Serving Suggestions

These sugar cookie bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy complements the soft texture and enhances the strawberry flavor beautifully. Consider garnishing with fresh mint for an added touch of color and freshness.

For a fun twist, try drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled bars before cutting them into squares. Not only does it add a rich flavor contrast, but it also gives the bars an elegant touch that's perfect for a spring celebration or gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

→ How long can I store the bars?

You can store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for about a week.

→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I serve with these bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.