This Strawberry Slice is a quick, easy, and delicious treat that combines the sweetness of dried strawberries with coconut and a buttery base. Perfect for dessert or as a snack, this slice is simple to prepare and can be iced for an extra touch of sweetness. With only a few ingredients, it’s an excellent recipe to whip up when you need something fast and tasty!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 150g dried strawberries

• 2 cups self-raising flour

• ½ cup sugar

• 1 cup desiccated coconut

• 185g butter (melted)

Directions

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Soak the dried strawberries in hot water for 30 minutes. After soaking, drain the strawberries.

2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients: self-raising flour, sugar, desiccated coconut, and melted butter. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

3. Bake: Press the mixture into a slice tin and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden.

4. Cool and Ice: Once the slice has cooled, ice with pink icing if desired for an extra burst of sweetness.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 230 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Protein: 2g

• Fat: 12g

  • Saturated Fat: 7g

• Sodium: 70mg

• Potassium: 110mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 14g

• Vitamin A: 160 IU

• Vitamin C: 1mg

• Calcium: 15mg

• Iron: 1mg

The Simplicity of the Ingredients

One of the standout features of the Strawberry Slice is its simplicity. The recipe requires just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Dried strawberries, self-raising flour, sugar, desiccated coconut, and butter come together to form a delightful dessert that doesn’t need to be complicated. The dried strawberries provide a concentrated fruity sweetness, while the coconut adds texture and a slight tropical flair. The butter creates the rich, melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes each bite irresistible.

This simplicity not only makes it easy to prepare but also ensures that the flavors shine without being overwhelmed by too many ingredients. The recipe allows the natural sweetness of the dried strawberries to take center stage, balanced by the nutty, slightly chewy texture of the coconut. It’s a straightforward yet satisfying combination that’s bound to become a regular favorite in your household.

The Role of Dried Strawberries

Dried strawberries are a key ingredient in this recipe, adding both sweetness and a subtle tartness that balances the richness of the coconut and butter. Dried fruits, in general, concentrate their natural sugars and flavors, which is why they’re often used in desserts like this. The rehydration process—soaking the dried strawberries in hot water—helps revive their texture, making them more pliable and softer, almost as though they were fresh.

Dried strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They retain many of the vitamins and minerals found in fresh strawberries, including vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. By incorporating dried strawberries into this slice, you’re adding a burst of fruity flavor along with a boost of nutrition. The fruit’s natural sweetness also reduces the need for excessive sugar, keeping the recipe balanced and flavorful without being overly sweet.

Coconut: Adding Texture and Richness

The addition of desiccated coconut in this recipe provides a delightful texture and richness. Coconut is a popular ingredient in many sweet treats, known for its ability to add both chewiness and a hint of nuttiness. When baked, coconut takes on a toasted flavor that enhances the overall taste of the slice. It complements the other ingredients beautifully, offering a light crunch that contrasts nicely with the softness of the strawberries and the richness of the buttery base.

In addition to its delicious flavor, coconut also offers health benefits. It contains healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals like manganese and copper. These nutrients can support digestive health, help regulate blood sugar levels, and contribute to overall well-being. While this slice is a treat, the inclusion of coconut gives it a more wholesome feel, making it a satisfying snack that’s both tasty and beneficial.

Buttery Base: The Heart of the Slice

The buttery base of this Strawberry Slice is what ties everything together, giving it that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes it so irresistible. The melted butter mixes seamlessly with the other ingredients, binding them together to form a dense, slightly crumbly texture that is rich and flavorful. Butter not only adds richness but also enhances the flavor profile of the other ingredients, ensuring that the coconut and strawberries are well-balanced.

The butter also helps create a golden, slightly crisp top as the slice bakes. The combination of a soft, buttery base and the chewiness of the coconut gives this dessert its signature texture. When baked, it’s golden on the edges, with a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softer, sweeter filling.

The Ease of Preparation

One of the most appealing aspects of the Strawberry Slice is how easy it is to prepare. Unlike many other desserts that require multiple steps or long cooling times, this slice can be made in just a few simple steps. Once the dried strawberries are soaked, the rest of the ingredients are combined in one bowl, making for minimal cleanup. The mixture is then pressed into a baking tin, baked to golden perfection, and allowed to cool.

This ease of preparation makes it an excellent option for busy days when you need something quick and satisfying. It’s also perfect for beginners who may be new to baking, as it doesn’t require any special skills or techniques. If you’re looking to make a dessert without spending a lot of time in the kitchen, this Strawberry Slice is a perfect choice.

Icing for an Extra Touch

While the Strawberry Slice is delicious on its own, a simple pink icing can be added for an extra burst of sweetness and a pop of color. The icing is easy to make and adds a smooth, sweet finish that pairs perfectly with the coconut and strawberries. The pink color gives the slice an appealing look, making it a visually striking treat that’s perfect for serving at casual gatherings or family meals.

The icing is optional, but it elevates the slice, making it even more indulgent. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar or prefer a less sweet treat, the slice is just as tasty without the icing. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it just the way they want.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Strawberry Slice is an incredibly versatile dessert that works for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re serving it at a casual afternoon tea, as a snack for kids, or bringing it to a potluck, this slice is sure to impress. Its vibrant colors and delicious flavors make it an ideal treat for birthdays, holidays, or any time you need a simple yet satisfying dessert.

The slice also makes a fantastic lunchbox treat for both kids and adults. It’s easy to pack, portable, and doesn’t require refrigeration, making it a convenient option for on-the-go snacking. You can prepare it in advance and have it ready to serve throughout the week, ensuring that you always have a tasty, homemade treat on hand.

Nutritional Benefits of Strawberry Slice

While this dessert is undeniably sweet and satisfying, it also offers some nutritional benefits. The dried strawberries provide a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which support immune health and overall wellness. The coconut adds healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals, which are beneficial for heart health and digestion. The combination of these ingredients creates a dessert that’s not only indulgent but also provides some healthful elements.

The use of butter in the recipe provides a rich flavor and contributes to a fulfilling texture, while the addition of self-raising flour ensures that the slice has the right balance of density and fluffiness. The sugar content is relatively modest, and the slice can be made even lighter by adjusting the amount of sugar or omitting the icing.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Strawberry Slice

In conclusion, the Strawberry Slice is a simple, delicious, and versatile treat that combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the richness of coconut and a buttery base. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a satisfying bite every time. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert, a lunchbox snack, or a treat to share with friends and family, this slice is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

The combination of flavors and textures—sweet strawberries, chewy coconut, and buttery goodness—makes each bite a delightful experience. The addition of a simple icing elevates the dish, making it perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and customizable to your tastes, the Strawberry Slice is a treat everyone will enjoy. If you’re looking for a delicious and quick dessert, this recipe is sure to please and leave everyone asking for more.