Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I took a bite of these delicious Strawberry Bars, a flood of summer memories washed over me—picnics with homemade treats and laughter filling the air. This easy Strawberry Bars recipe transforms fresh strawberries into a luscious filling, enveloped in a sweet cookie crust that’s just too good to resist. With minimal prep time, it’s a perfect dessert for those spontaneous summer gatherings when friends drop by. You’ll love how the buttery dough serves both as a base and crumbly topping, making assembly a breeze! Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or someone looking to escape the fast-food rut, these Strawberry Bars will delight your taste buds while bringing a sense of nostalgia to your dessert table. Ready to indulge in flavors that evoke fond memories and warm days? Let’s dive in! Why You’ll Love Strawberry Cookie Boats Nostalgic Delight: Each bite transports you back to sun-soaked summer picnics, filled with laughter and homemade treats. Effortless Preparation: With minimal steps, even novice bakers can create these delightful bars. Irresistible Flavors: The sweet cookie crust pairs perfectly with the fruity strawberry filling for a delicious contrast. Versatile Dessert: Enjoy as is or elevate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. For more fruity ideas, check out our Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches or Blueberry Cookies Soft. Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for summer gatherings; these bars will have your friends asking for seconds! Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance and store for quick, sweet cravings during the week. Strawberry Cookie Boats Ingredients • If you’re ready to create these delightful strawberry cookie boats, gather the ingredients below for a memorable dessert experience! For the Cookie Crust All-Purpose Flour – Provides the necessary structure; you can substitute half with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture. Baking Powder – Helps the crust rise slightly, contributing to a soft and tender mouthfeel. Fine Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness of the bars and enhances the overall flavor profile. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; make sure it’s softened for optimal mixing. Light Brown Sugar – Offers deeper sweetness and moisture to the dough, elevating the flavor. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookie base, creating a delightful contrast with the strawberry filling. Large Egg – Acts as a binding agent, ensuring all ingredients stick together harmoniously. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; for a punch of intensity, try using vanilla bean paste. For the Strawberry Filling Fresh Strawberries – The star of this recipe; if out of season, swap with frozen strawberries, but be sure to cook longer for a proper consistency. Granulated Sugar (for filling) – Sweetens the strawberries, ensuring every bite is a treat. Lemon Juice – Brightens the filling’s flavor, giving a zesty kick that complements the strawberries. Cornstarch – Thickens the mixture, preventing sogginess and ensuring the filling holds together. For the Glaze Powdered Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness without the graininess, perfect for finishing off your bars. Heavy Whipping Cream (or Milk) – Creates a smooth glaze on top; swap with milk for a lighter sauce. With these simple yet key ingredients in hand, you’re all set to whip up a batch of strawberry cookie boats that will surely delight your family and friends! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Cookie Boats Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven is warming up, line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring that it hangs over the edges for easy removal later. This step sets the stage for your delightful Strawberry Cookie Boats, allowing the crust to bake evenly and preventing sticking. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. This mixture will provide incredible structure to your strawberry cookie boats. Set the dry ingredients aside, allowing their flavors to mingle, while you move on to creating the buttery cookie base. Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy—around 2-3 minutes. This process introduces air into the mixture, creating a tender texture in your cookie crust. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to incorporate all ingredients. Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla Next, add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing on low until well combined. This is essential for binding your dough and enhancing the flavor profile of your strawberry cookie boats. It should appear smooth and uniform, indicating your mixture is ready for the dry ingredients. Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients Gradually add the reserved dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms. You want to avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough bars. Once combined, reserve about 2 cups of the dough for topping later—this will create a crumbly finish on your delicious Strawberry Cookie Boats. Step 6: Bake the Crust Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of the lined baking pan. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on it, as you want the edges to be slightly firm while the center remains soft. Step 7: Prepare Strawberry Filling While the crust is baking, prepare the strawberry filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups of fresh strawberries (or frozen if needed) with ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until thickened, resembling a jam-like consistency, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Step 8: Spread Filling Once your crust has cooled slightly, spread the thickened strawberry filling evenly over the baked crust. Ensure every corner is covered, as this luscious filling is the star of your Strawberry Cookie Boats. The contrast between the sweet filling and the buttery crust brings these bars to life. Step 9: Crumble Reserved Dough Crumble the reserved 2 cups of dough evenly over the strawberry filling, creating a beautiful topping. This will form a delightful, crumbly texture that complements the gooey filling. Ensure it covers the surface adequately, as it helps seal in the strawberry goodness while baking. Step 10: Bake Again Place the pan back in the oven and bake for an additional 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. Keep an eye on the bars to avoid over-baking. Once done, remove them from the oven and let cool completely before glazing. Step 11: Glaze and Serve Prepare the glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar with a few tablespoons of heavy whipping cream or milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled Strawberry Cookie Boats, allowing it to slightly set. Finally, cut into squares and serve a lovely treat that evokes summer memories and joy! Variations & Substitutions for Strawberry Cookie Boats Feel free to get creative with your Strawberry Cookie Boats and make them uniquely yours! Whole Wheat Swap: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and denser texture. Nutty Addition: Stir in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, for a delightful crunch. Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk in the glaze to make it dairy-free while still creamy. Zesty Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the strawberry filling for a refreshing citrus kick that enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness. Chilled Treats: Chill the bars in the refrigerator for an hour before serving to create a refreshing dessert perfect for hot days. Extra Fruity: Swap half of the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry experience that brings even more color to your dessert. Spiced Delight: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie crust for an unexpected warm spice note. Saucy Topping: Drizzle with a homemade balsamic glaze or chocolate sauce before serving for an elegant touch that will wow your guests. With these delightful variations, you can savor a different twist on these Strawberry Cookie Boats every time you make them! If strawberries aren’t an option, consider trying out other fruit delights, such as making wonderful Strawberry Mango Cupcakes or a fresh take on Strawberry Biscuits Sweet. Your dessert table will be anything but boring! How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cookie Boats Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and taste. Fridge: For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cool environment helps retain the bars’ moist texture. Freezer: Freeze the strawberry cookie boats for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw before serving for the best flavor. Reheating: If you desire a warm treat, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes, ensuring they’re warm and delightful. What to Serve with Easy Strawberry Bars Imagine a sunlit picnic or a cozy family gathering where every bite of dessert is accompanied by harmonious flavors, enhancing that delightful experience. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the strawberry bars with creamy, cool goodness that melts in your mouth. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a luscious texture and rich contrast to the fruity filling, perfect for elevating each bite. Fresh Mint: A sprinkle of bright mint leaves brings a refreshing, aromatic touch that cuts through the sweetness and enhances flavors beautifully. Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade offers a refreshing palate cleanse and complements the strawberry’s sweetness, making for a perfect summer combo. Iced Tea: A lightly sweetened iced tea adds a sophisticated touch with hints of herbal notes that pair well with strawberries. Chocolate Drizzle: A bit of melted chocolate drizzled on top creates a decadent twist, marrying rich chocolate flavor with fruity freshness beautifully. Berry Salad: A medley of fresh berries tossed with a hint of lime creates a vibrant, tangy side that echoes the flavors of the bars. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: This tropical dessert provides a delightful contrast with its caramelized sweetness and soft texture, rounding out a sweet table. Sparkling Water: Serving these bars with sparkling water infused with lemon or berries adds a refreshing, bubbly contrast that ties everything together. Brownies: For a double dessert experience, pairing with fudgy brownie squares offers a rich, chocolatey complement to the fruity strawberry goodness. Make Ahead Options These Easy Strawberry Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on special occasions or weeknight desserts! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the dough and press it into the baking pan, then refrigerate it. For the filling, cook the strawberries and let them cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, spread the chilled filling over the crust, crumble the reserved dough on top, and bake as instructed. This prep technique ensures your strawberry bars remain just as delicious, allowing for easy assembly and minimal chaos in the kitchen! Expert Tips for Strawberry Cookie Boats Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the dough when combining dry ingredients to maintain a tender texture in your strawberry cookie boats. Fresh vs. Frozen: When using frozen strawberries, remember to cook them longer to achieve a jam-like consistency without excess liquid. Cooling Time: Don’t rush! Cool the bars completely before glazing for the best flavor and presentation. Equal Coverage: Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the crust for a consistent taste in every delicious bite. Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover strawberry cookie boats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain scrumptious. Strawberry Cookie Boats Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting fresh strawberries? Absolutely! When choosing fresh strawberries, look for firm, plump berries with a deep, vibrant red color. Avoid any with dark spots, mold, or excessive bruising. If they have their green caps intact, it’s an added bonus, indicating freshness. The best strawberries usually have a sweet aroma that fills the air! How should I store leftover strawberry cookie boats? You can store your delicious strawberry cookie boats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. If you want them to last a bit longer, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to let them cool completely before sealing them away to maintain that lovely texture! Can I freeze strawberry cookie boats? Yes, you can freeze your strawberry cookie boats! Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. If you want a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Why did my crust turn out too hard? Very likely, overmixing could be the culprit! When combining your dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until a soft dough forms. Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Also, keep a close eye on the baking time; if baked too long, the crust can become hard. Aim for a golden-brown color, and remember, perfectly baked bars should have a tender crumb! Are these strawberry cookie boats suitable for pets? It’s best to avoid sharing these treats with pets, as ingredients like sugar and butter aren’t ideal for their diets. If you’re looking for something pet-friendly, consider making homemade dog treats with safe ingredients like pumpkin or peanut butter instead. Always remember to consult your vet about your pet’s dietary needs for an extra layer of care! Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Absolutely! If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can substitute with frozen strawberries. However, remember to cook them a bit longer to achieve that lovely jam-like consistency. Be sure to drain any excess liquid before mixing. This ensures your filling won’t make your bars soggy and will still be delicious! Delicious Strawberry Cookie Boats That'll Steal Your Heart No ratings yet These Strawberry Cookie Boats are delightful treats that capture the essence of summer with a fruity filling and buttery crust. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 25 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs Servings: 9 squaresCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Crust2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute half with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.1 teaspoon Baking Powder Helps the crust rise slightly.0.5 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt Balances the sweetness.0.5 cups Unsalted Butter Make sure it's softened.0.5 cups Light Brown Sugar Offers deeper sweetness.0.25 cups Granulated Sugar Sweetens the cookie base.1 large Egg Acts as a binding agent.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances the flavor.For the Strawberry Filling2 cups Fresh Strawberries Can swap with frozen if out of season.0.25 cups Granulated Sugar Sweetens the strawberries.1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens the filling.1 tablespoon Cornstarch Thickens the mixture.For the Glaze1 cup Powdered Sugar Adds sweetness without graininess.4 tablespoons Heavy Whipping Cream or Milk Creates a smooth glaze. Equipment Stand mixer8x8 Baking PansaucepanParchment Paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line an 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper.Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.Cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, scraping down the bowl as needed.Add egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined.Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until a soft dough forms and reserving 2 cups for topping.Press remaining dough into the bottom of the baking pan and bake for 15-20 minutes.Combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a saucepan and cook until thickened.Spread the strawberries over the crust once slightly cooled.Crumble reserved dough over the strawberry filling.Bake again for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.Prepare the glaze with powdered sugar and cream, drizzle over cooled bars, slice, and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg NotesStore leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
