Name: Decadent Strawberry White Chocolate Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-491733H51M36S
Ingredients: 115 grams unsalted butter, very soft; 1 box (432 grams) strawberry-flavored cake mix; 1 large egg; 170 grams white chocolate chips; 240 milliliters sweetened condensed milk, fat-free recommended

Indulging in a sweet treat can turn any ordinary day into something special, and what could be more delightful than Strawberry White Chocolate Bars? This dessert is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that make it a favorite among dessert lovers. Bursting with the vibrant taste of strawberries, these bars offer a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience, especially when complemented by rich white chocolate chips. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something indulgent, these bars are a fantastic choice.

One of the reasons these Strawberry White Chocolate Bars stand out is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, anyone can whip up this dessert in no time, even if you’re not an experienced baker. The combination of strawberry-flavored cake mix with creamy sweetened condensed milk and decadent white chocolate is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The vibrant color and rich taste make these bars a stunning addition to any dessert table.

Not only do these bars satisfy your sweet cravings, but they also bring joy to those who share them. The recipe yields 16 delicious servings, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family. Let’s dive into the detailed preparation of these delightful Strawberry White Chocolate Bars!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry White Chocolate Bars

Delightful Flavor: The combination of strawberry and white chocolate delivers a blissful flavor that’s hard to resist.
Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can make these bars with ease.
Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 16 bars, this recipe is great for gatherings, picnics, or family dessert nights.
Visual Appeal: The striking pink color and creamy chocolate appearance make these bars visually pleasing and perfect for any occasion.
Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite nuts or substituting different flavors.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you jump into baking these scrumptious bars, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring you have a clean workspace and all the ingredients on hand. You will need a large mixing bowl, an electric mixer, a spatula, and a 23×23 cm baking pan lined with aluminum foil and lightly coated with non-stick spray. This preparation will help in achieving a hassle-free baking experience.

Next, make sure your oven is preheated to 175°C to ensure even baking. The mixing process will be much easier if your butter is very soft, so plan to take it out of the fridge ahead of time. Having your ingredients pre-measured can also save time and make the baking process smoother. Now, with your tools ready and kitchen prepped, you’re all set to create one of the most delectable desserts!

Ingredients

115 grams unsalted butter, very soft
1 box (432 grams) strawberry-flavored cake mix
1 large egg
170 grams white chocolate chips
240 milliliters sweetened condensed milk, fat-free recommended

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C. Prepare a 23×23 cm baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil. Be sure to lightly coat the foil with non-stick spray to prevent the bars from sticking once baked. This preparation is key to ensuring that your bars come out easily and retain their shape.

Step 2: Create the Dough Base

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer set to medium-high speed to beat together the very soft unsalted butter until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will create a perfect, fluffy base for your bars. Once you achieve that creamy consistency, add one box of strawberry-flavored cake mix and a large egg. Lower the mixer speed and continue to beat the mixture until a thick, cohesive dough comes together, ensuring there are no dry spots remaining.

Step 3: Form the Base and Layer the Chocolate

Take approximately two-thirds of the dough and spread it evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking pan. You can use a spatula or your lightly greased hands for easier handling. Once the base is established, scatter the white chocolate chips uniformly over the dough, creating a delightful layer of chocolatey goodness. Follow it up by drizzling sweetened condensed milk evenly on top of the chocolate chips, enhancing the richness of the dessert.

Step 4: Add the Remaining Dough and Bake

Now it’s time to take the remaining dough and break it into small portions, about 2.5 cm pieces. Gently place these dough chunks across the surface of the pie, making sure to not fully cover the filling. This will allow the sweetness of the chocolate and condensed milk to peek through during baking. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 27–30 minutes. You will know they’re done when the edges are set and just starting to turn golden, but the center should still have a slight jiggle.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Once your bars are baked to perfection, remove the pan from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. It’s essential to let the bars cool for a minimum of 2–3 hours or preferably overnight. This cooling period is vital as it allows the bars to firm up, making slicing easier and ensuring their shape holds. Once cool, slice into 16 bars and get ready to serve!

Variations

Protein: Add some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for additional texture and flavor.
Vegetables: Consider folding in a small amount of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Spices: Enhance the flavors with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm undertone.

Cooking Notes

For best results, allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Tips

If you prefer a richer flavor, opt for high-quality white chocolate chips.
Feel free to swap out the strawberry cake mix for other flavors, such as vanilla or lemon, for a different take on this dessert.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2-3 hours (including cooling time)

Nutritional Information

Calories: 180
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 45mg

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container after they have cooled completely.

How should I store the Strawberry White Chocolate Bars?

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for optimal freshness.

Can I use different cake mix flavors?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various flavors of cake mix such as vanilla, lemon, or even funfetti for different tastes.

Are these bars gluten-free?

These bars are not gluten-free as they use traditional strawberry-flavored cake mix, which typically contains wheat flour. You could substitute with a gluten-free cake mix if desired.

Conclusion

Strawberry White Chocolate Bars are not just a treat; they are a delightful experience that combines the sweet taste of strawberries with the richness of white chocolate, perfect for any occasion. With easy preparation and scrumptious results, these bars are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you serve them at a gathering or enjoy a slice with your evening tea, these bars are guaranteed to bring joy. Don’t forget to try different variations and add your personal touch to the recipe! We’d love to hear how your baking adventure went, so feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!