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To truly appreciate the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble Bars, it's essential to understand the individual components that come together to create this dessert. Each layer plays a crucial role in the overall taste and texture, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.

Strawberry Shortcake Crumble Bars

Discover the bliss of summer with Strawberry Shortcake Crumble Bars, a delightful dessert that perfectly blends sweet, juicy strawberries with a buttery, crumbly topping. These bars are not only eye-catching but also versatile, making them perfect for picnics and family gatherings. With easy-to-follow layers of crust, filling, and topping, each bite is a nostalgic treat that embodies the sunny season. Elevate your baking skills and delight your family with this irresistible dessert!
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Ingredients
  

For the Crust and Topping:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

¼ tsp salt

1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1 large egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

½ cup granulated sugar

1 tbsp cornstarch

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping (optional):

Whipped cream for serving

Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    Make the Crust and Topping: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

      Add the Egg and Vanilla: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; some clumps of butter should still remain.

        Divide the Mixture: Set aside about 1 ½ cups of this mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.

          Prepare the Strawberry Filling: In another bowl, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir gently to coat the strawberries evenly.

            Layer the Filling: Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the crust in the baking pan, ensuring even distribution.

              Add the Crumble Topping: Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the strawberry layer, covering it completely.

                Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

                  Cool and Slice: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting it out using the parchment overhang. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.

                    Serve: Serve the bars at room temperature or chilled, topped with whipped cream and garnished with a fresh mint leaf, if desired.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 12 bars