Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies

Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies are a delightful twist on the classic blondie dessert. These sweet treats combine the rich, buttery taste of traditional blondies with the fruity and vibrant flavor of strawberry jam. The result is a soft, chewy bar that’s not only satisfying but also visually appealing, especially when topped with a sweet glaze and colorful sprinkles. Perfect for sharing at parties, gatherings, or as a special treat for yourself, these blondies are easy to make and even easier to devour. The combination of textures and flavors creates a nostalgic experience reminiscent of enjoying a pop-tart, but in a much more indulgent format. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients about Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies

List of ingredients with measurements

• Cooking spray
• 1 1/4 cups packed light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup strawberry jam
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 to 2 tablespoons whole milk
• Sprinkles for decorating

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up or adapt the recipe to cater to dietary preferences, there are several substitutions you can consider. For a dairy-free option, replace the unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use a dairy-free milk alternative for the glaze. If you don’t have strawberry jam on hand, any fruit jam or preserves like raspberry or blueberry will work beautifully. For a lower sugar option, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe or opt for a sugar substitute, keeping in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.

How to Make Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the baking pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, take an 8-inch by 8-inch baking pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray. To ensure that the blondies come out easily after baking, line the pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on two opposite sides. This will help you lift the blondies out once they are baked and cooled.

Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, take your packed light brown sugar and melted unsalted butter. Using a whisk, combine these two ingredients until they are well mixed. Then, add the granulated sugar to the bowl and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth. Once that’s done, crack in the two large eggs, add the vanilla extract, and the kosher salt. Whisk everything together until you achieve a homogenous and smooth batter.

Step 3: Combine dry ingredients and fold into wet ingredients

Following the wet ingredient mixture, it’s time to add in the dry ingredients. Measure out the all-purpose flour and gradually stir it into the wet batter with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to over-mix; you only want to combine the ingredients until there are no dry patches left. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Layer the batter and jam

Once the batter is well combined, take 1 1/2 cups of it and spread it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Make sure to create a smooth layer. After this, it’s time for the strawberry jam! Spoon dollops of the jam across the batter. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread the jam over the batter without fully mixing it in. Finally, with the remaining batter, dollop it over the jam layer. Use the spatula again to smooth it into an even layer, taking care not to disturb the jam underneath. Now your creation is ready for the oven!

Step 5: Bake the blondies

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake the blondies for about 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye out for the edges turning golden brown. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can tent the pan with foil to prevent burning. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, lift them out using the parchment paper and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the glaze

While the blondies are cooling, you can make the sweet glaze. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of whole milk until the mixture is smooth. If it’s too thick for your liking, add more milk slowly, a half-teaspoon at a time, until you reach a thick but pourable consistency.

Step 7: Drizzle the glaze and decorate

After your blondies have cooled completely, it’s time to decorate! Pour the prepared glaze over the top of the blondies. Using your offset spatula, spread it evenly to cover the surface. Finish off your creation by sprinkling colorful sprinkles over the glaze for that extra pop of fun and sweetness. Let the glaze sit for about an hour until it sets before cutting the blondies into squares.

How to Serve Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies

Best ways to serve Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies

Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies can be served in various ways, making them a versatile dessert. For a casual setting, simply cut the blondies into squares and arrange them on a serving platter. You could also serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, allowing the ice cream to melt slightly over the warm blondie for an indulgent dessert.

Serving suggestions or pairings

Consider pairing your blondies with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of extra strawberry sauce for added freshness and flavor. They also work wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. If you’re serving these at a party, think about presenting them alongside other desserts like cookies or brownies for a sweet treat buffet!

How to Store Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies

Proper storage methods

To store your Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies, first ensure they are completely cooled. Place them in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week, although refrigeration may alter their texture slightly.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you’d like to enjoy your blondies warm, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds until they are just warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the blondies. Cut them into squares and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature first.

Tips to Make Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is over-mixing the batter, which can lead to dense blondies. Mix just until the flour is incorporated and stop there. Also, be careful not to open the oven too often while baking, as it can cause uneven cooking. Lastly, avoid using jam that is too runny as this can lead to a lack of structure in the blondies.

Helpful tips for better results

For the most flavorful blondies, use high-quality pure vanilla extract. If you prefer a more pronounced strawberry flavor, consider reducing the amount of flour slightly and adding in some finely chopped fresh strawberries. This can enhance the texture and fruitiness of your dessert. Additionally, when cutting the blondies, use a sharp knife to get clean cuts. For extra moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of milk to the batter before mixing it in.

Variation of Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

You can explore various flavor combinations with your Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies. Consider adding chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks to the batter for a richer flavor profile. You could also swap out the strawberry jam for mango or apricot jam for a tropical twist. If you love nuts, adding chopped walnuts or almonds can gives an enjoyable crunch to the soft blondies.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

To make the recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure the jam is also gluten-free. If you are following a vegan diet, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg), and opt for plant-based alternatives for butter and milk.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your dish isn’t turning out as expected, there may be a few reasons. Ensure you measured the ingredients accurately. If they are too dry, it could be due to excess flour. On the other hand, if your blondies are too soggy, your jam may have been too runny or you may have underbaked them. Always check the baking time closely, as ovens vary.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies can be made ahead of time. You can bake, cool, glaze, and store them in an airtight container. They taste delicious for several days and the flavors may even improve after some time.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

There’s plenty of room for substitutions! If you lack all-purpose flour, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can work, as mentioned. For eggs, flax eggs are an excellent plant-based alternative. As mentioned prior, different jams or even fruit preserves can be used. You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor or agave syrup as an alternative sweetener.

These Strawberry Pop-Tart Blondies are a sweet treat that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a wonderful dessert perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your baking adventure!

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