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Strawberry Lemon Crumb Bars

These crumb bars feature a tender crust topped with a layer of sweet strawberries and tart lemon, finished with a crunchy crumb topping. The recipe involves mixing, layering, and baking to create a dessert with contrasting textures: crispy, gooey, and tender. Once baked, they have a golden top with vibrant fruit filling that oozes slightly when sliced.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour for the crust and topping
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar for sweetness in the crust and crumb
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold and cut into small pieces
  • 1 pinch salt to enhance flavor
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch to thicken fruit filling
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest for brightness

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Pastry cutter or forks
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with some small pea-sized pieces.
  3. Press two-thirds of this crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press firmly and create an even layer.
  4. In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with lemon juice, lemon zest, and cornstarch until well coated. This will make the filling glossy and thickened once baked.
  5. Spread the prepared strawberry mixture evenly over the crust layer in the baking dish.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top of the fruit filling, covering it completely and creating a crunchy topping.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbling along the edges.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes to set the filling. Slice into squares and serve slightly warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For a variation, try adding a splash of vanilla to the fruit filling or using mixed berries.