Easy Strawberry Shortcake Bars to Try This Summer

Introduction

Strawberry shortcake bars capture all the nostalgic, irresistible flavors of the classic dessert in a format that’s perfect for sharing at picnics, BBQs, or summer gatherings. These bars boast a buttery shortcake base, a layer of luscious, fresh strawberries, and a generous cap of whipped cream or creamy topping. Simple to prepare, guaranteed to please, and easy to serve — these bars will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why These Strawberry Shortcake Bars Are a Summer Must-Try

These bars are a fantastic way to serve strawberry shortcake without the fuss of assembling individual servings. The layers hold their shape for easy slicing, making them ideal for a party platter or packed lunch. Sweet, juicy strawberries meet a soft, crumbly base and a cloud of creamy topping — a crowd-pleasing treat that screams summer freshness.

Simple Strategies for Perfect Shortcake Bars

The key to dreamy shortcake bars is evenly slicing your strawberries and prepping that golden, tender shortcake layer. A sturdy Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper can speed up slicing strawberries to a uniform thickness, ensuring your bars look beautiful and bake evenly.

For the base, opt for parchment-lined pans to keep bars from sticking. Using a roll like Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll simplifies cleanup and preserves those neat edges.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Once your shortcake layer is golden and cooled, top it with your sliced, macerated strawberries and a billowy layer of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting. For the creamiest, smoothest topping, a blender like the Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender ensures perfect whipped cream every time, without any lumps.

Chill the assembled bars in the fridge to let the flavors meld and the topping set, making for easier slicing and vibrant layers.

Serving and Storing Your Bars for Maximum Freshness

To keep your strawberry shortcake bars fresh and ready for any summer event, use airtight containers like Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers. These preserve the freshness of your bars and make transporting a breeze, perfect for picnics or potlucks!

Serve bars chilled, optionally garnished with fresh strawberry slices or a mint leaf for a pop of color. For extra indulgence, offer alongside homemade strawberry sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 12 bars. Each bar contains approximately 220–260 calories, depending on your topping and the amount of added sugar. The focus is on wholesome ingredients and fresh fruit — the perfect balanced summer sweet.

Easy Strawberry Shortcake Bars to Try This Summer (Recap)

Enjoy all your favorite strawberry shortcake flavors in a convenient, make-ahead bar. Ideal for warm-weather gatherings, these treats blend rich shortcake, juicy strawberries, and dreamy creaminess into one irresistible bite.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with a fitted sheet from the Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for quick release and easy clean-up.
2. In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a handheld mixer or a sturdy spatula. Add egg and vanilla, mix until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture; mix until just combined. Press mixture evenly into the prepared pan using your fingertips or the bottom of a measuring cup.
4. Bake for 18–22 minutes until edges are set and lightly golden. Cool completely in the pan.
5. Meanwhile, use the Mueller Pro-Series Vegetable Chopper to quickly slice strawberries into even pieces. Toss strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Set aside for 20 minutes to macerate.
6. For the creamy topping, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. For a thicker, frosting-like finish, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth (a Ninja BL610 Professional Blender makes this fast and lump-free!).
7. Spread the shortcake base with strawberry mixture (strained slightly if very juicy), then top with the whipped cream layer. Chill at least 1 hour before slicing.
8. Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 22 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling time)