Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Have you ever craved a snack that’s both wholesome and indulgent? Enter my Scrumptious Strawberry Oatmeal Bars, a delightful fusion of juicy strawberries and buttery oat crumble that I can’t get enough of. Perfect for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups, these bars are a breeze to whip up—just a quick mix and bake session away! With the option to go gluten-free or swap in your favorite fruit, they cater to all cravings while staying health-conscious. Imagine sinking your teeth into a chewy, flavorful bar that makes you feel good about snacking. Curious about how to create this comforting treat?” Why Are Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Perfect? Simplicity at its core: These bars come together with minimal fuss, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Wholesome ingredients: Packed with oats and juicy strawberries, they prioritize nutrition without sacrificing taste. Versatile options: Feel free to experiment with other fruits or go gluten-free—there’s a variation for everyone! Time-saving snack: Whip them up in just 45 minutes, making them an ideal grab-and-go option for busy days. Delicious and satisfying: Each bite offers a delightful blend of chewy and crumbly textures, sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, for similar inspirations, check out my tasty Strawberry Mango Cupcakes or the scrumptious Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars! Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Ingredients • Here’s everything you need for delightful Strawberry Oatmeal Bars! For the Base Quick Oats/Rolled Oats – Essential for a chewy texture; avoid using steel-cut oats. Flour – Adds structure; substitute with spelt, oat, gluten-free all-purpose, or white flour, but steer clear of coconut flour. Sugar/Xylitol – Sweetens the mixture; using brown sugar yields softer bars, while xylitol offers a sugar-free alternative. Ground Cinnamon – Optional but enhances flavor with a warm aroma; a true crowd-pleaser! Baking Powder – Key for rise; essential for achieving the perfect texture. Salt – Balances sweetness, ensuring overall flavor shines through. Oil/Butter – Adds moisture and richness; for a lighter option, substitute with coconut oil or dairy-free alternatives. For the Filling Diced Strawberries – The star ingredient that brings sweetness; use fresh or properly thawed frozen strawberries, avoiding freeze-dried for this filling. Cornstarch/Aarrowroot – Thickens the strawberry filling; can be interchanged depending on what you have available. Maple Syrup/Sweetener – Adds sweetness to the filling; feel free to use your favorite liquid sweetener based on preference. With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re on your way to baking scrumptious Strawberry Oatmeal Bars that your family will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Strawberry Oatmeal Bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color. While waiting for the oven, gather your ingredients and have your baking pan ready for the next steps. Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. This step is key for ensuring your delicious bars come out intact and beautifully shaped. Set the prepared pan aside while you mix your ingredients. Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a medium mixing bowl, combine the quick or rolled oats, flour, ground cinnamon, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Stir well until everything is evenly distributed; the mixture should take on a pleasant aroma from the cinnamon. This dry blend forms the tasty base for your Strawberry Oatmeal Bars. Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients Incorporate melted butter or oil into the dry mixture, mixing thoroughly until the dough resembles coarse crumbs. This helps achieve the rich texture and flavorful depth for the bars. If you prefer a lighter option, feel free to substitute with melted coconut oil here. Step 5: Form the Base Layer Press two-thirds of the dough mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even base layer. Use your fingers or the back of a measuring cup to pack it down tightly for a sturdy foundation. This solid base holds your sweet strawberry filling beautifully. Step 6: Prepare the Strawberry Filling In another bowl, combine the diced strawberries, cornstarch or arrowroot, and maple syrup. Mix well until the strawberries are well-coated and the mixture begins to thicken. This filling is the centerpiece of your Strawberry Oatmeal Bars, offering fruity sweetness with every bite. Step 7: Assemble the Bars Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the base layer in your pan. Next, sprinkle the remaining dough mixture on top, pressing down gently to ensure it’s compact. This step creates that delightful crumble topping while sealing in the juicy strawberry goodness. Step 8: Bake the Bars Carefully place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen is filled with a tempting aroma and the bars have a lovely, crispy top layer. Step 9: Cool & Refrigerate Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. This chilling process makes cutting into your Strawberry Oatmeal Bars much easier and helps them hold their shape beautifully. How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Room Temperature: Keep bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness, making them perfect for snacking anytime. Fridge: For extended freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week; the cool environment helps maintain both texture and flavor. Freezer: Freeze bars individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy a homemade snack anytime. Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave for 15-20 seconds or allow to come to room temperature for a few minutes—enjoy your Strawberry Oatmeal Bars warmed or chilled! Expert Tips for Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Press Firmly: Make sure to press the dough layers firmly into the pan for a stable structure. This will help the bars hold together when cut. Use Ripe Strawberries: For the best flavor, select ripe strawberries that are sweet and juicy. Overripe ones may create a soggy filling, so avoid them! Cool Before Cutting: Let your bars cool completely in the fridge before slicing. This helps maintain their shape and prevents messy edges. Try Different Fruits: Feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries or peaches. Just be cautious with moisture levels to keep the texture right in your Strawberry Oatmeal Bars. Oat Substitutes: If you need a gluten-free option, always use certified gluten-free oats. Regular oats can cause cross-contamination, so be sure to verify! Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Variations Feel free to create your own twist on these delicious bars with just a few simple swaps! Fruit Swap: Try diced rhubarb, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity variation. Each fruit brings a unique flavor profile to the bars, making them a delightful surprise every time. Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend. This simple change keeps the bars delectable and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Chocolate Delight: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the mixture. The chocolate adds a touch of indulgence that pairs beautifully with the strawberries! Lower Calorie: Replace oil with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana. This swap reduces calories while keeping the moisture intact, making them even better for guilt-free snacking. Nutty Crunch: Stir in a quarter cup of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for added texture. Nuts provide a satisfying crunch and can also offer a boost of healthy fats. Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract into the filling for an aromatic enhancement. These spices add warmth and depth, elevating the overall flavor. Seasonal Variations: Substitute strawberries with seasonal fruits like peaches in the summer or apples in the fall. This keeps the recipe fresh and exciting throughout the year. Berry Medley: Combine different berries such as strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries for a colorful and deliciously mixed filling. This twist brings vibrant flavors that are sure to please. These variations can make your snacking experience even more delightful! For more fruity inspirations, try my Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake or dive into the tropical flavors of Strawberry Mango Cupcakes. What to Serve with Strawberry Oatmeal Bars? Imagine indulging in these delightful bars while enjoying complementary flavors that elevate your snack experience. Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop on the side adds a rich, tangy note that balances the sweetness of the bars. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits offers refreshing juices that enhance the fruity filling of your bars. Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture and wholesome goodness, creating a satisfying contrast with the soft bars. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea soothingly complements the chewy oatmeal and strawberry flavor. Peanut Butter Drizzle: A drizzle of peanut butter brings a nutty, creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the strawberry sweetness. Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping adds a tropical twist, making every bite a delight. Dark Chocolate Chips: For an indulgent option, sprinkle some chips on top before baking; they melt and create a luscious surprise. ** almond Milk:** A refreshing glass of almond milk makes for a fantastic drink pairing that’s light yet satisfying. Make Ahead Options These scrumptious Strawberry Oatmeal Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal prep. You can prepare the base and filling ingredients up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and preparing the strawberry filling, which helps intensify the flavors. Just refrigerate both separately to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply press the base layer into your prepared pan, spread the strawberry mixture on top, sprinkle with the remaining dough, and bake as instructed. After baking, allow the bars to cool and firm up in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before cutting. This advance prep ensures you enjoy delightful, homemade bars any day! Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Recipe FAQs What kind of strawberries should I use for the filling? Absolutely! It’s best to use ripe, sweet strawberries for the filling to ensure a burst of flavor. Check for berries that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch. Avoid overripe strawberries, which can turn mushy and make the filling soggy. Fresh ones are great, but frozen strawberries (thawed properly) can work too if fresh aren’t available. How should I store Strawberry Oatmeal Bars? Very! For room temperature storage, keep the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and ready to grab during your busy days! Can I freeze Strawberry Oatmeal Bars? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each bar in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a quick warm treat! What if my bars are too crumbly? If your Strawberry Oatmeal Bars turn out crumbly, this could be due to insufficient moisture in the dough. Ensure you’re using the right amount of butter or oil as indicated in the recipe. If they still crumble, try pressing the dough layers more firmly into the pan next time. This helps create a better structure, making them easier to cut and eat! Are these bars suitable for gluten-free diets? Very much so! For a gluten-free version of the Strawberry Oatmeal Bars, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats. Additionally, substituting regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour keeps everything safe while still delicious. Just be cautious about cross-contamination if that’s a concern for you! Delicious Strawberry Oatmeal Bars for Your Snack Cravings These Strawberry Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and indulgent snack, perfect for busy mornings or afternoon cravings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 cups Quick Oats or Rolled Oats Avoid using steel-cut oats.1 cup Flour Can substitute with spelt, oat, or gluten-free flour.1/2 cup Sugar or Xylitol Brown sugar yields softer bars.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Optional but enhances flavor.1 teaspoon Baking Powder Key for rise.1/4 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness.1/2 cup Oil or Butter Coconut oil can be used for a lighter option.For the Filling2 cups Diced Strawberries Fresh or properly thawed frozen strawberries.2 tablespoons Cornstarch or Arrowroot Can interchange.1/4 cup Maple Syrup or Sweetener Use your favorite liquid sweetener. Equipment 8-inch square baking panMixing bowlsMeasuring Cupsmixing spoon Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper.In a medium mixing bowl, combine the quick or rolled oats, flour, ground cinnamon, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Stir well.Incorporate melted butter or oil into the dry mixture, mixing thoroughly until the dough resembles coarse crumbs.Press two-thirds of the dough mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.In another bowl, combine the diced strawberries, cornstarch or arrowroot, and maple syrup. Mix well.Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the base layer in your pan.Sprinkle the remaining dough mixture on top, pressing down gently.Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly.Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 3gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesPress the dough layers firmly for stable structure. Use ripe strawberries for best flavor. Let bars cool completely before slicing. Feel free to experiment with different fruits and ensure you use gluten-free oats if needed. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!