Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Recipe: Sweet Delight

Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Recipe: Imagine a sweet treat that combines the crunch of a cookie, the fluff of a meringue, and the burst of freshness from juicy berries all in one delightful package.

Look no further! Our Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Recipe is a game-changer for anyone with a sweet tooth.

These bars are a masterclass in texture and flavor, with a shortbread crust giving way to a chewy cookie center, topped with a fluffy meringue kissed with the sweetness of fresh berries.

Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Recipe: A Quick Overview

Category	Description
Recipe Description	Sweet and tangy berry meringue cookie bars with a shortbread crust and a fluffy meringue topping
Preparation Time	20 minutes
Cooking Time	45-50 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 5 minutes
Type of Dish	Dessert
Cuisine	American
Quantity Produced	9-12 bars
Number of Calories	approximately 250-300 per bar

About Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Recipe

These Berry Meringue Cookie Bars are a unique and delicious twist on traditional cookie bars. The combination of a buttery shortbread crust, a chewy cookie center, and a fluffy meringue topping infused with fresh berries creates a truly unforgettable taste experience.

What makes these bars so special is that they’re surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

Plus, you can customize them to your taste by using your favorite type of berry – strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix – to create a flavor combination that’s all your own.

And the best part? They’re make-ahead friendly, so you can whip them up ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for busy lives and last-minute gatherings.

With their perfect balance of crunch, chew, and sweetness, these Berry Meringue Cookie Bars are sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Why does the Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Recipe Stand Out?

Unique Flavor Combination

• Sweet and tangy berry flavors paired with a crunchy shortbread crust and a fluffy meringue topping
• A perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite

Easy to Make

• Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it easy to whip up a batch
• No special equipment or techniques required

Customizable

• Use your favorite type of berry or a mix of berries to create a unique flavor combination
• Add a sprinkle of sugar on top for extra sweetness or a pinch of salt for a savory twist

Impressive Presentation

• The meringue topping adds a beautiful, golden-brown finish to the bars
• Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats

Make-Ahead Friendly

• Prepare the shortbread crust and cookie layer ahead of time and assemble just before baking
• Freeze the baked bars for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature when ready to serve

Crowd-Pleasing

• Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings
• A sweet treat that’s sure to impress friends and family alike

What are the ingredients in the Berry Meringue Cookie Bars recipe?

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
• 2 large egg whites

Must-Have Equipment for Making Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Recipe

• 8-inch square baking pan: For baking the shortbread crust and cookie layer
• Mixing bowls: For creaming together butter and sugar, whisking eggs, and mixing dry ingredients
• Electric mixer: For creaming together butter and sugar, and beating egg whites
• Whisk: For whisking eggs and mixing dry ingredients
• Rubber spatula: For scraping the sides of the mixing bowl and folding in ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients
• Oven thermometer: For ensuring the oven is at the correct temperature
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil: For lining the baking pan and making cleanup easier

Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Recipe: step by step guide

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar. Add 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Layer and Add Fresh Berries

• In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 large egg. Add 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
• Fold in 1 cup fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries). Pour the mixture over the baked shortbread crust and smooth the top.

Step 3: Top with Meringue and Bake

• In a clean bowl, beat 2 large egg whites and 1 teaspoon cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
• Spread the meringue over the cookie layer, making sure to seal the edges of the meringue to the crust to prevent filling from escaping during baking.
• Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars and serving.

Perfect Pairings for Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Recipe

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to the sweet and tangy berry flavors
• Fresh Fruit: A simple but elegant pairing, fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a burst of freshness to the rich cookie bars
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture to the dense and chewy cookie bars
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea provides a nice contrast to the sweet and fruity flavors of the cookie bars
• Caramel Sauce: For a salty and sweet combination, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cookie bars
• Chocolate Chips or Shavings: Add some dark or milk chocolate chips or shavings on top of the cookie bars for a sweet and indulgent treat

Mastering Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Recipe: Insider Tips and Tricks

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients, including eggs and butter, are at room temperature for a better texture and consistency.
• Don’t overmix: Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together to prevent a tough or dense texture.
• Use high-quality berries: Fresh or frozen berries will give the best flavor and texture. Avoid using dried or low-quality berries.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the bars while they’re baking and remove them from the oven when they’re lightly golden brown.
• Use the right type of flour: All-purpose flour is best for this recipe, as it provides structure and texture to the cookie bars.
• Don’t open the oven door too often: Resist the temptation to check on the bars too frequently, as this can cause them to sink or not cook evenly.
• Let them cool completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. This will help them set and make them easier to handle.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different spices, nuts, or citrus zest to the dough for unique flavor combinations.

What nutritional benefits do the Berry Meringue Cookie Bars Offer?

• Antioxidant-rich berries: The berries used in the recipe are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress.
• Fiber content: The berries and flour used in the recipe provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which can help with digestion and satiety.
• Protein content: The eggs and butter used in the recipe provide a good amount of protein, which can help with muscle growth and repair.
• Healthy fats: The butter and eggs used in the recipe provide healthy fats that are essential for brain function, hormone production, and absorption of vitamins.
• Complex carbohydrates: The flour and sugar used in the recipe provide complex carbohydrates that provide energy and help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Vitamins and minerals: The berries and flour used in the recipe are good sources of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and manganese.
• Satisfying snack: The combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in the Berry Meringue Cookie Bars makes for a satisfying snack that can help curb hunger and support weight management.

How can you preserve leftovers of Berry Meringue Cookie Bars?

• Room temperature: Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: Store the cookie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap the cookie bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Vacuum seal: Vacuum seal the cookie bars in airtight bags or containers to preserve freshness and prevent moisture from entering.
• Freezer bags: Place the cookie bars in freezer bags and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Airtight containers: Store the cookie bars in airtight containers, such as glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, to preserve freshness.
• Layer with parchment paper: When storing multiple layers of cookie bars, separate each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even freezing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Berry Meringue Cookie Bars are a true showstopper – a sweet treat that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. With their perfect balance of crunch, chew, and sweetness, they’re the perfect indulgence for any occasion.

And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, customizable to your taste, and can be whipped up ahead of time to fit your busy schedule. So go ahead, give these Berry Meringue Cookie Bars a try, and get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth in style.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, these bars are sure to become a new favorite – and with their stunning presentation, they’re sure to be the star of any gathering. So what are you waiting for? Get baking, and get ready to indulge in a sweet treat like no other!

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh ones?
A: Yes, you can use frozen berries in place of fresh ones. Just thaw them first and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Q: How do I store these bars?
A: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 10 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the bars ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Simply assemble the bars, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.

Q: What type of berries can I use?
A: You can use any type of berry you like, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if using a different type of berry.

Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make these bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to adjust the ratio of flours and add xanthan gum as needed.

Q: How do I get the meringue to brown evenly?
A: To get the meringue to brown evenly, make sure to spread it evenly over the top of the bars and bake in a preheated oven at the correct temperature. You can also use a kitchen torch to brown the meringue if desired.

Q: Can I make these bars in a different size pan?
A: Yes, you can make these bars in a different size pan, just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan will require a shorter baking time, while a smaller pan will require a longer baking time.