Strawberry Oatmeal Bars
Strawberry Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat that hits the perfect balance between fruity sweetness and hearty texture. These bars combine fresh, juicy strawberries with the comforting chewiness of oats,…
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Strawberry Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat that hits the perfect balance between fruity sweetness and hearty texture. These bars combine fresh, juicy strawberries with the comforting chewiness of oats, all wrapped up in a crumbly, buttery crust. They’re a great snack or a simple dessert that feels wholesome and satisfying.
I love making these bars when strawberries are in season because their natural sweetness really shines through. The oatmeal adds a cozy, rustic touch that makes each bite feel like a little bit of homemade comfort. I find they’re also easy to slice up and pack for a quick snack on the go or for a lunchbox surprise.
One fun tip I’ve discovered is warming a bar just a little before eating, maybe with a small bit of butter or a drizzle of honey on top—it makes the flavors pop and makes it feel like a special treat. These bars remind me of summer afternoons spent in the kitchen with friends and family, sharing something sweet but down-to-earth.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the salt level better. Melted butter helps bind the oats and flour while giving a rich flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, try coconut oil instead.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are perfect for texture. Quick oats will make the bars softer, while steel-cut oats are too tough. Rolled oats provide the right chewiness.
Strawberries: Fresh chopped strawberries add brightness and freshness. If strawberries are out of season, frozen berries work too, just drain excess juice before using.
Strawberry jam: This creates a sweet and sticky layer that holds the berries in place. You can swap with raspberry or apricot jam for a different twist, or use low-sugar preserves.
How Do You Get the Bars to Hold Together Without Being Too Crumbly?
The key is balancing wet and dry ingredients and pressing the mixture firmly.
- Mix melted butter with both sugars to create a smooth base that adds moisture.
- When adding dry ingredients, stir just enough to combine – too much mixing leads to tough bars.
- Press 2/3 of the oat mixture firmly into the pan to form a solid crust. Use your hands or a flat tool for even pressure.
- After adding the topping, gently press the crumb layer without compacting too hard to keep some texture.
- Cooling completely before cutting helps the bars set and hold their shape better.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking pan – perfect size for the bars and fits well in most ovens.
- Parchment paper – makes it easy to lift the bars out without sticking or breaking.
- Large mixing bowl – for combining the wet ingredients smoothly.
- Medium bowl – to whisk together the dry ingredients evenly.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing the ingredients without overworking the batter.
- Wire rack – lets the bars cool evenly and prevents sogginess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different berry flavor that still pairs well with oats.
- Add ½ cup chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the oat mixture for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Mix in ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for warm, cozy spice notes.
- Use peach or apricot jam and fresh fruit instead of strawberry for a sweet summer twist.
How to Make Strawberry Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/3 cup strawberry jam or preserves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake. You’ll also want to allow some time for the bars to cool completely before cutting and serving, so plan for about 1 hour in total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some extra paper hanging over the edges—this will help you lift the bars out easily once they’re baked.
2. Make the Wet Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is smooth. Then add the vanilla extract and eggs, beating until everything is well combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking powder, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the mixture.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—the mixture will be crumbly, and that’s okay! Avoid overmixing.
5. Form the Crust:
Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create a solid crust.
6. Add the Fruit Layers:
Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the crust. Then scatter the chopped fresh strawberries over the jam, spreading them out evenly.
7. Add the Crumble Topping:
Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the strawberry layer. Gently press down just a little to help it stick together but keep it crumbly.
8. Bake Your Bars:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and feels set to the touch.
9. Cool and Serve:
Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious strawberry oatmeal bars as a snack or dessert!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to prevent the bars from becoming soggy.
How Should I Store Leftover Strawberry Oatmeal Bars?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the bars wrapped well for up to 3 months.
Can I Substitute the Butter with a Healthier Option?
You can replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option or use a vegan butter substitute. Keep in mind that this might slightly change the flavor and texture.
Is It Okay to Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Quick oats can be used if you prefer a softer texture, but rolled oats give the best chewy texture and structure to the bars.
