Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Recipe

If you’re searching for a treat that’s as wholesome as it is crowd-pleasing, look no further than these Strawberry Oatmeal Bars. With a buttery oat base, sweet and tangy strawberry filling, and a golden crumb topping, this recipe strikes that elusive perfect balance between indulgence and everyday deliciousness. Whether you want a make-ahead breakfast, a charming brunch addition, or a snack that’ll impress everyone (including yourself)—these bars are here to win hearts and satisfy cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Strawberry Oatmeal Bars? The ingredient list is refreshingly simple, yet every element has a purpose. Here’s how each star ingredient steps up to make these bars irresistibly tasty and beautiful!

• Quick oats or rolled oats: Provide the hearty texture and nutty flavor that give the bars substance and rustic charm.
• Flour (spelt, white, or oat): Offers structure and helps the bars set, while keeping things wonderfully tender.
• Sugar or xylitol: Sweetens the dough just right—feel free to choose based on your dietary needs and taste preferences.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds cozy warmth and a subtle, aromatic spice to every bite.
• Baking powder: Brings a little lift to the crumb, making the bars pleasantly soft.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all those delicious flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Oil or butter: Infuses richness and helps bind the dough so you get gorgeously golden, crisp edges.
• Diced strawberries: The showstopper! Juicy and vibrant, they become extra jammy as they bake.
• Cornstarch or arrowroot: Thickens the strawberry layer, preventing sogginess and ensuring clean, delicious layers.
• Pure maple syrup or sweetener of choice: Infuses the strawberry filling with extra sweetness and flavor complexity.

How to Make Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s ready to work its magic. For easy cleanup and perfect bar removal, either grease an eight-inch baking pan or line the bottom with parchment paper. Lining the pan will make it a breeze to lift out the bars once they’re set and chilled.

Step 2: Mix the Oat Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, cinnamon, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Give these dry ingredients a good stir, making sure everything is evenly dispersed—no one wants a pocket of flour or cinnamon surprise!

Step 3: Add Oil or Butter

Pour in the oil or melted butter and stir well until all the dry bits are moistened and crumbly. At this stage, the dough should clump together when pressed—this texture is key for both the base and the crumble topping of your Strawberry Oatmeal Bars.

Step 4: Press in the Base

Firmly press about two-thirds of the dough into your prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer. It’s important to really pack it down; a tightly packed base ensures the bars hold together beautifully when sliced.

Step 5: Make the Strawberry Filling

In a separate bowl, stir together your diced strawberries, the cornstarch or arrowroot, and maple syrup (or your chosen sweetener). The cornstarch will help turn those strawberries into a luscious, pie-like filling as the bars bake.

Step 6: Assemble and Top

Spread the strawberry mixture over your oat base in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining dough over the top, then use your hands or the back of a spoon to gently press it down. This keeps the topping secure and gives every bite that delicious crumble.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake on the center rack for 45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and your kitchen smells like dreams. Let the pan cool completely, then refrigerate before slicing—chilling helps the bars set up so you can get neat, bakery-worthy squares.

How to Serve Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

Garnishes

Add a swoosh of extra style and flavor to your Strawberry Oatmeal Bars: a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of peanut butter, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt. Fresh sliced strawberries or a few mint leaves on top can instantly transform these humble bars into a treat fit for tea parties or dessert platters.

Side Dishes

For a relaxed brunch, pair these bars with a creamy latte, a fruity smoothie, or a cup of hot tea. Their not-too-sweet vibe also makes them a fabulous partner for a simple scrambled egg or crisp bacon if you want to balance out your menu.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bars into squares and stack them high on a rustic wooden board for a picnic-ready vibe, or cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized snacks at your next get-together. Layer them in jars with yogurt and extra berries for a charming, portable parfait—your friends will swoon!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Strawberry Oatmeal Bars store like a dream—just cover the pan with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or mid-day treats all week long.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months! Just be sure to separate layers with parchment so nothing sticks together.

Reheating

Pop a bar in the microwave for about 15 seconds to gently warm it and bring out the flavors. If you prefer, reheat in a toaster oven at 300°F for a few minutes for an even crispier topping. They’re also delicious right from the fridge for a cool, chewy bite.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw the berries first and drain off any excess liquid before mixing with the cornstarch and sweetener. The bars will still be bursting with that signature strawberry flavor.

Are Strawberry Oatmeal Bars gluten-free?

They can be! Simply use certified gluten-free oats and oat flour (or a trusted gluten-free flour blend). Double-check your baking powder and other packaged ingredients to be sure.

Can I make these bars vegan?

You bet. Swap the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and stick with maple syrup or your favorite plant-based sweetener for the filling. The result is just as rich and satisfying!

How do I keep the base from getting soggy?

Be sure to mix the cornstarch or arrowroot well with the strawberries to thicken the filling as it bakes. Also, let the bars cool completely and chill in the fridge before slicing—this ensures clean layers and a perfectly set base.

What’s the best way to cut neat squares?

Use a sharp knife and wait until the bars are fully chilled. For extra clean slices, wipe the knife between cuts or use a piece of parchment paper to help lift the bars out of the pan in one piece before cutting.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried making your own Strawberry Oatmeal Bars yet, I can’t recommend them enough. They’re loaded with flavor, easy to make, and just might become your favorite way to showcase fresh berries. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself—your kitchen and your taste buds will thank you!

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