Lemon Strawberry Heart Bites

Name: Lemon Strawberry Heart Bites
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bites
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option); 1 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup coconut flour; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; Pinch of salt; Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

I absolutely adore making Lemon Strawberry Heart Bites! These delightful treats are a perfect blend of zesty lemon and juicy strawberries, creating an irresistible combination that is refreshing and satisfying. The process is simple, making it a great choice for both experienced bakers and beginners alike. I find that these heart-shaped bites not only bring a pop of color to any dessert table but also offer a burst of flavor with every bite. They make for a lovely gift or a sweet indulgence for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T15:58:27.363Z

I started making Lemon Strawberry Heart Bites during a summer gathering with friends, and they quickly became a favorite. The fresh strawberries add a natural sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon perfectly. My secret is to let the strawberry puree sit for a little while before mixing it in, which enhances the flavors beautifully.

I've also experimented with the shape of these treats—while hearts are perfect for Valentine’s Day, you can easily switch it up to round or any other fun shapes for different occasions. Each bite is filled with bright flavors, and they vanish in no time at all!

        Why You'll Love These
        Bright, citrusy flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Naturally sweetened, perfect for guilt-free indulgence
Adorable heart-shaped presentation for any occasion

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh strawberries in this recipe is essential for capturing the vibrant flavor and natural sweetness that makes these heart bites so delightful. Opt for ripe, in-season strawberries for the best results; they should be firm yet slightly soft to the touch. This will ensure a rich, juicy filling. If you can't find fresh strawberries, frozen ones can be a substitute, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your mixture.

Lemon juice is another key player in this recipe, as it not only provides a zesty kick but also enhances the brightness of the strawberries. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended over bottled for its superior flavor. The acidity from the lemon also helps balance the sweetness of the honey or maple syrup, ensuring that the bites remain refreshing rather than cloyingly sweet.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Heart Bites

When shaping your heart bites, it's crucial to pack the dough tightly into the molds. This helps them hold their shape while baking and prevents crumbling. If you're hand-shaping them, consider using a cookie cutter or gently pressing them to achieve uniform thickness, which ensures even baking. If you notice cracks forming in the dough, a quick press can help seal them up before they go into the oven.

Baking these heart bites at a temperature of 350°F (175°C) allows for a golden exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Watch for signs like golden edges and a slightly firm touch in the center; this typically indicates they’re ready. If the bites are browning too quickly, consider rotating the tray halfway through baking or lowering the oven temperature by 25°F.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup coconut flour
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Once you have these ingredients ready, it's time to create your Lemon Strawberry Heart Bites!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delightful bites:

Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries, lemon juice, and honey. Blend until smooth and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the melted coconut oil with the prepared strawberry mixture until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until a dough forms. If it’s too dry, add a little more coconut oil.

Shape the Bites

Press the dough into heart-shaped molds or shape them by hand. Make sure they are well packed.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bites for 15 minutes or until golden.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bites to cool completely before removing from the molds. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and enjoy!

Serve these bites at your next gathering or savor them on your own!

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries. If making ahead of time, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Lemon Strawberry Heart Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep. If you want to make them ahead of time, consider doubling the recipe and freezing half. To freeze, arrange the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be enjoyed straight from the freezer or thawed in the fridge overnight before serving.

For optimal texture, be sure to keep the bites in the fridge until ready to serve. If left out for too long at room temperature, they can become too soft due to the coconut oil. To add a little extra charm when serving, dust with powdered sugar right before presenting them; this not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle sweetness.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the flavors in this recipe! Substitute half of the strawberries with other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a mixed berry version. You can also infuse the coconut oil with hints of almond or vanilla for an additional aromatic layer. If you're looking for a more indulgent treat, try adding a handful of dark chocolate chips to the dough before baking.

For a more tropical spin, incorporate some finely shredded coconut into the dough, or swap in lime juice for a citrus twist. These small changes can create delightful variations while still maintaining the essence of this flavor-packed treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I replace coconut flour with?

You can substitute coconut flour with more almond flour, but reduce the amount since coconut flour is more absorbent.

→ Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

→ How long can I store these heart bites?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.