Name: Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter (melted, cooled to room temperature); ½ cup light brown sugar; 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup strawberry pie filling (or any kind you like); ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 egg; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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There’s something truly magical about the essence of spring, and for me, that magic often manifests in the form of Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars. As the vibrant colors of the season bloom outside, my kitchen becomes a canvas for these delicious treats. Each bite transports me to sunny picnics and family gatherings, where the sweet aroma of strawberries fills the air. I remember the first time I made these bars; my friends were skeptical at first, but after one taste, they were hooked! The creamy layer of sour cream intertwined with juicy strawberries nestled under a crumbly topping creates a delightful texture and flavor combo that’s hard to resist.

Whenever I prepare Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars, it’s like inviting spring into my home. They’re perfect for brunch, a cozy afternoon snack, or even dessert after dinner. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make! With a handful of ingredients and some mixing magic, you can whip up a batch in no time, and your family will think you’ve been baking all day. I can’t wait for you to try making these delicious bars, as they are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe repertoire. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
2g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
9g g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars

Deliciously Balanced Flavors

One of the standout features of Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars is the harmonious balance of flavors. The tartness of the strawberry pie filling pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of the sour cream. This combination not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful creaminess that takes each bite to the next level.

Easy to Make

Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, this recipe is approachable and straightforward. With just a few steps and minimal prep time, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery. I love how it requires no complicated techniques—just mix, layer, and bake!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch or simply craving a sweet treat, these bars fit the bill perfectly. They’re versatile enough to serve at parties, family gatherings, or even as a snack during the week. Their vibrant colors and inviting aroma always draw people in.

Make Ahead and Store

One of my favorite things about Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars is how well they store. You can make them in advance and keep them in the fridge for a few days. This makes them an ideal dessert for busy weeks, as you can prepare them ahead of time and just slice and serve when needed!

Customization Options

This recipe is also wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of pie filling or add in some nuts or chocolate chips to the crumb topping. The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings something unique to the table.

Family Favorite

Last but not least, these bars have become a family favorite in my home. There’s nothing like watching loved ones indulge in a dessert you made with your own two hands. Every bite brings smiles and happy memories—it’s the perfect way to celebrate the joys of cooking and baking.

Ingredients Required for Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars

To create the delightful Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars, you’ll need a mix of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and taste. The key players include the buttery crumb mixture, the rich sour cream, and the sweet strawberry pie filling, all working in harmony to create a delicious bar that everyone will enjoy.

½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled to room temperature: This will form the base of your crumb mixture and add richness.
½ cup light brown sugar: Provides sweetness and a lovely caramel flavor that enhances the overall taste.
1.5 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your crust and crumb topping, giving structure and stability.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise and become light and fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking powder: Works in conjunction with the baking soda for a perfect texture.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
1 cup strawberry pie filling: The star of the show, bringing fruity sweetness and moisture.
½ cup sour cream: Adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the strawberries.
¼ cup granulated sugar: A touch more sweetness to balance out the tartness of the sour cream.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sour cream filling slightly.
1 egg: Binds the ingredients together for a sturdy bar.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances everything.

Step by Step Instructions for Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars

Ready to dive into the baking process? Making Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars is a fun and rewarding experience. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious bars cooling on your counter in no time!

Prepare your 8-inch square baking pan by greasing the sides and bottom or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal later. Set it aside while you prep the filling.
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. A properly preheated oven is crucial for even baking.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup light brown sugar, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure an even rise.
Add the ½ cup melted unsalted butter to the flour mixture and mix until a dough begins to form. The mixture should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Reserve about ¾ cup of this mixture for the topping. Set the reserved mixture aside for later use.
Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. This forms the base of your bars, so make it as even as possible.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup sour cream, 1 cup strawberry pie filling, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, 1 egg, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
Pour this creamy filling over the crust in the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Spoon the strawberry pie filling over the sour cream mixture. Using the back of a spoon, gently make a few swirls to incorporate some of the filling into the cream layer.
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top, covering the filling evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This cooling step is important for clean cuts and helps the layers set.
Refrigerate any leftovers in a covered container for up to 3 days. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars!

Things Worth Knowing

Make sure your butter is cooled: Adding hot butter can affect the texture of your bars. Let it cool completely before mixing.
Check for doneness: The bars should be golden brown on top; if you find they’re browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.
Cooling is key: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.
Serving suggestion: These bars are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Recipe Notes about Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars

These tips will help you get the most out of your Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, these notes will enhance your baking experience.

Storage: Keep any leftover bars in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste even better the next day!
Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Serving temperature: These bars can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. I love them best when they’re slightly warmed!
Pairing: Enjoy these bars with fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent dessert.
Variations: Feel free to use different pie fillings based on your preference—blueberry or cherry can be delightful substitutes!

Great Combinations for Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars

When serving Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars, consider these delightful combinations to enhance your experience:

Ice Cream: Pair these bars with a scoop of creamy vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a heavenly dessert.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or mixed berries to add a burst of freshness.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can elevate this dessert to new heights.
Tea or Coffee: These bars make a wonderful afternoon snack enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
Brunch Delight: Perfect for brunch gatherings, serve these bars alongside pancakes or a fruit platter.
Spring Celebrations: Ideal for spring gatherings or picnics, they add a festive touch to any occasion!

FAQ

Absolutely! While the strawberry pie filling is delicious, you can easily substitute it with your favorite flavors. Cherry, blueberry, or even peach pie filling can work wonderfully. Each variation will offer a unique taste, so feel free to get creative!

To store your Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars, simply place them in a covered container in the refrigerator. They will keep for about three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to enjoy them later without sacrificing flavor!

Yes, you can! To make Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes a binder like xanthan gum for the best results. The bars will be just as delicious!

For clean cuts, it’s essential to let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. Using a sharp knife helps achieve neat edges. You can also run the knife under hot water and dry it before cutting to make slicing through the crumb topping easier. Enjoy your perfectly square bars!

Conclusion

The Strawberry Pie Sour Cream Crumb Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of spring with their fresh flavors and creamy texture. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why they’ve become a favorite in my home!