Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box vanilla cake mix; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 package (3 oz) strawberry vegan gelatin mix; 1 package (3 oz) vanilla instant pudding mix; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup all-purpose flour (divided); 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip topping, thawed

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

June 14, 2025

Updated:

June 14, 2025

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These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are the perfect summer treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with a creamy topping. Ideal for picnics, family gatherings, or just a delightful dessert at home, these bars will impress anyone who takes a bite. The easy-to-follow recipe offers vibrant flavors and a texture that melts in your mouth, making it an irresistible choice all season long.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberry and cream cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home with family.
Kid-Friendly: This dessert is sure to be a hit with children and adults alike!
Fresh Ingredients: Made with real strawberries and high-quality cream cheese for a fresher taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Strawberry Shortcake Bars much easier and more enjoyable. Gather your kitchen essentials before you start baking!

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer or stand mixer
9×9 inch cake pan
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining your ingredients smoothly.
Electric mixer or stand mixer: These tools save time and ensure that your batter is mixed thoroughly.
Spatula: Perfect for spreading the dough evenly in the pan for even baking.

Ingredients

These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a favorite summer dessert with an out of this world Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free) topping!

For the Base

1 box vanilla cake mix
2 large eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 3oz. package strawberry Vegan Gelatin mix, dry
1 3 oz. package vanilla instant pudding mix, dry
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
1 cup all-purpose flour (divided)

For the Cream Cheese Topping

1 8 oz. package cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 8 oz. tub Cool Whip topping, thawed

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9 inch cake pan with aluminum foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, using an electric or stand mixer:
1. Mix together the cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil until combined.
2. Continue mixing until a dough forms.

Step 3: Bake the Base

Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula. Bake for about 20 minutes or until edges turn lightly brown. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.

Now you’re ready to enjoy some delightful Strawberry Shortcake Bars!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Serving Strawberry Shortcake Bars is a delightful way to enjoy this sweet treat. Whether for a summer gathering or a special family dessert, these bars can be presented in various fun ways.

Casual Gatherings

On a platter: Arrange the bars on a colorful platter for an inviting presentation.
With fresh strawberries: Add whole or sliced strawberries around the bars for a fresh touch.

Parties and Celebrations

Individual servings: Cut the bars into smaller pieces and serve them in cupcake liners for easy handling.
With whipped cream: Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Picnics and Outdoor Events

In mason jars: Layer the bars with whipped cream and strawberries in mason jars for a portable treat.
As dessert skewers: Cut bars into bite-sized pieces and skewer them with fresh fruit for fun finger food.

How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Bars

To ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and results in better texture.
Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars. Mix just until combined.
Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before frosting prevents melting and ensures neat slices.
Add zest for flavor: Incorporating lemon or orange zest enhances the overall taste profile of the bars.
Experiment with toppings: Try adding sliced almonds or coconut flakes on top for extra crunch.
Store properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Shortcake Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to your dessert table.
Minted Yogurt Dip: A light yogurt dip with mint complements the sweetness of the shortcake perfectly.
Pineapple Sorbet: The refreshing taste of pineapple sorbet provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the bars.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These classic treats add elegance and indulgence to your dessert spread.
Lemonade Slushies: A cold, tangy drink pairs well with sweet desserts, making it a perfect addition.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory balance against the sweetness of strawberry shortcake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Shortcake Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Ignoring the cooling time: Letting the bars cool completely before frosting is crucial. If you frost while warm, the frosting will melt and make a mess.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so using the right amount of each ingredient impacts texture and taste. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars. Combine ingredients just until they are mixed; a few lumps are okay.
Skipping the non-stick spray: Failing to grease the pan can result in bars sticking and breaking apart. Always use non-stick cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
Using expired ingredients: Old baking powder or gelatin can ruin your recipe. Check expiration dates on all dry ingredients before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Strawberry Shortcake Bars in an airtight container.
They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Layer parchment paper between bars to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap.
Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes for gentle warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh strawberries in Strawberry Shortcake Bars?

Yes, you can use fresh strawberries! Just slice them thinly and sprinkle them on top after frosting for added flavor.

How can I customize my Strawberry Shortcake Bars?

You can add flavors like lemon zest or almond extract to the batter. You might also try different toppings like whipped cream or chocolate drizzle.

Are these Strawberry Shortcake Bars gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Strawberry Shortcake Bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them a day before serving, store them properly, and they’ll be just as delicious when you’re ready to enjoy them.

What should I do if my bars are too crumbly?

If your Strawberry Shortcake Bars are crumbly, it may be due to overbaking or not enough moisture. Ensure accurate measurements and check baking times closely next time.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile for various occasions. Their creamy topping combined with the soft base makes for an irresistible treat. Feel free to customize them with different fruits or flavors based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!