Name: Strawberry Shortcake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup milk; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar (for macerating strawberries); 2 cups whipped topping or homemade whipped cream

These Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a sunny-day dream come true. With layers of soft vanilla sponge, sweet whipped cream, and juicy strawberries, every bite delivers nostalgia and comfort with a bakery-style twist. They’re the kind of dessert that looks beautiful on a platter but is deceptively easy to make. Whether you’re preparing for a summer picnic, springtime brunch, or just a weeknight treat, these bars bring brightness and joy to the table.

The simplicity of ingredients and freshness of flavors make them a crowd favorite. There’s something about the combination of light cake, ripe strawberries, and creamy layers that feels like sunshine in dessert form. Plus, they slice cleanly, making them ideal for parties or sharing with friends. You don’t need to be a baking pro to create something that tastes and looks this impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe

Strawberry Shortcake Bars are endlessly lovable. They take the essence of the traditional layered shortcake and turn it into an easy-to-eat, handheld delight. Each layer plays its part: the sponge soaks up the strawberry juices, the whipped topping adds creamy softness, and the berries themselves give a bright, natural sweetness. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, and birthdays.

Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for Shortcake Bars?

Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe, especially when they’re in season. They bring a juicy, firm texture that complements the airy cake and cream. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid a soggy result.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Shortcake Bars

This recipe keeps it classic with a few pantry staples and fresh berries. You don’t need anything complicated to bring this to life. Each ingredient supports the next, coming together in harmony.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the sponge cake layer.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cake and the strawberries.
Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and tenderness to the cake.
Eggs: Give structure and richness to the cake batter.
Vanilla extract: Brings warm aroma and enhances the cake’s flavor.
Milk: Adds moisture and makes the batter smooth.
Fresh strawberries: The star of the show, providing brightness and flavor.
Whipped topping or homemade whipped cream: Light, creamy, and ties everything together.

How To Make the Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Step 1: Make the Cake Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Mix in the dry ingredients and milk, alternating, until a smooth batter forms. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

While the cake cools, slice the fresh strawberries and toss them with a little sugar. Let them sit for 15–20 minutes to release their juices. This gives them that classic macerated texture and a sweet, syrupy finish.

Step 3: Whip the Cream (if making from scratch)

If you’re using homemade whipped cream, beat cold heavy cream with a touch of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Keep it chilled until ready to use.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly across the top. Spoon the juicy strawberries over the whipped layer. Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing into bars. This helps everything set for cleaner cuts and better flavor meld.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Cut into even squares or rectangles and serve cold or slightly chilled. Each bar is a neat little bite of classic strawberry shortcake, perfect for serving a crowd.

How to Serve and Store Strawberry Shortcake Bars

These bars are best served cold, straight from the fridge. They’re ideal for warm-weather gatherings and look stunning on a dessert table. Because they’re pre-cut, guests can easily grab and go, making them perfect for casual get-togethers or elegant brunches alike.

This recipe makes about 12 to 16 bars, depending on how you slice them, making it a fantastic dessert for a small gathering or larger event. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just know that the longer they sit, the more the whipped layer and strawberries may soften the cake base.

What to Serve With Strawberry Shortcake Bars?

Coffee or Iced Latte

The creaminess and light sweetness of the bars go perfectly with a cup of strong coffee or a cold latte.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Pair a bar with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a dreamy dessert combo.

Sparkling Lemonade

Bright and citrusy lemonade highlights the fresh strawberry flavor.

Strawberry Mint Mocktail

Echo the strawberry notes with a fresh strawberry mint spritzer for a refreshingly sweet sip.

Whipped Ricotta Dip

Serve alongside a platter of summer bites like whipped ricotta with honey and crackers.

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Add these to the dessert spread for a double strawberry-chocolate treat.

Yogurt Parfaits

If you’re serving brunch, balance out the sweetness with yogurt parfaits layered with granola and berries.

Want More Cakes & Dessert Ideas?

If you loved these Strawberry Shortcake Bars, try exploring these other dessert creations from the blog:

Butter Pecan Cheesecake for a nutty and indulgent twist on a classic.
Warm and Cozy Apple Crisp that’s perfect for fall cravings.
White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles for a creamy citrus bite.
Carrot Pound Cake if you’re in the mood for something spiced and moist.
Heavenly No-Bake Banana Split Cheesecake that brings retro fun to your dessert table.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know how yours turned out! Did you go with fresh or frozen strawberries? Try a different whipped topping? I’d love to hear how you made these bars your own. Drop a comment and share your sweet success.

Explore more health-boosting and feel-good desserts over on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest. You might just find your next favorite treat!

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Bars are the perfect blend of ease and elegance. They taste like summer and look like something out of a bakery window. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a holiday, a picnic, or just because you want something sweet, this recipe delivers. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a dessert that earns rave reviews every single time.