Irresistibly Fruity Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

My love for rustic strawberry oatmeal crumble bars sparked during a lazy summer afternoon at my grandmother’s farmhouse.

Sweet, jammy berries nestled between golden, buttery layers create pure comfort on a plate.

Memories of her kitchen drift through every crumbly bite, connecting generations with simple ingredients.

We crave desserts that feel both nostalgic and fresh, telling stories through each delectable morsel.

Wholesome oats provide a hearty foundation for juicy strawberries bursting with natural sweetness.

Simple techniques transform basic pantry staples into something magical and irresistible.

Bake these bars and watch how quickly they disappear from the serving platter.

What Goes Well with Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

• Rich, smooth vanilla ice cream complements the warm, fruity strawberry bars perfectly, creating a delightful contrast between cold and warm textures.
• Light, delicate chamomile tea balances the sweet and tangy strawberry crumble, offering a soothing and refreshing accompaniment that cleanses the palate.
• Crisp, slightly sweet rosé wine enhances the fruity notes of the strawberry bars, providing a sophisticated and elegant drinking experience that elevates the dessert.
• Delicate honey lavender syrup adds an elegant floral touch to the strawberry oatmeal bars, introducing a subtle complexity that highlights the dessert's natural sweetness.

Fun Variations of Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular flour with gluten-free oat flour or almond flour, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Adaptation: Swap butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, use maple syrup instead of brown sugar, and ensure all ingredients are plant-based.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use fresh strawberries with minimal added sweetener to reduce overall sugar content.
• Seasonal Berry Swap: Replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries for a different flavor profile while maintaining the same basic preparation method.

FAQs About Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

• Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain them completely before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

• How do I know if the strawberry filling is the right consistency?

The filling should be thick and glossy, coating the back of a spoon. When you run a spatula through it, it should leave a clear path that doesn’t immediately fill back in.

• What if I don't have an 8×8-inch pan?

You can use a 9×9-inch pan, but reduce the baking time by 2-3 minutes and check for doneness earlier. The bars might be slightly thinner but will still taste delicious.

• Is it necessary to use cornstarch in the strawberry filling?

Cornstarch helps thicken the filling and prevents it from being too runny. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use an equal amount of all-purpose flour, though the texture might be slightly different.

Why Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe Is a Fan Favorite

• Perfect for busy home bakers who want a delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Uses simple pantry staples like oats, strawberries, and basic baking ingredients for an easy and delightful dessert.
• Great for family gatherings, potlucks, or weekend treats that appeal to both kids and adults with its sweet and fruity profile.
• Adaptable recipe that allows swapping strawberries with other seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches for year-round enjoyment.

Everything You Need for Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

• Oats, Flour: The foundation of the bar, providing a hearty and rustic texture. Old-fashioned oats work best for optimal chewiness.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crumble. Dark brown sugar offers a deeper caramel flavor.
• Baking Powder: Ensures a light and slightly risen texture in the crust.
• Cinnamon: Brings warm, aromatic notes that complement the strawberries.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

• Strawberries: The star of the dessert, providing fresh and vibrant fruity flavor. Fresh or frozen strawberries can be used.
• Sugar: Sweetens the strawberry mixture and helps create a thick filling.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry sauce, preventing a runny consistency.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps balance the sweetness.
• Vanilla: Provides depth and rounds out the fruity flavors.

• Butter: Melts and binds the oat mixture, creating a rich and tender crust. Unsalted butter is recommended for better flavor control.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to 350F (175C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, letting extra paper hang over the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Build the Crumbly Foundation

• Rolled oats
• All-purpose flour
• Brown sugar
• Baking powder
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (melted)

In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in melted butter and mix until the ingredients create a wonderfully crumbly texture. Press about two-thirds of this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a solid base.

Step 3: Create Strawberry Magic

• Fresh strawberries
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Lemon juice
• Vanilla extract

In a saucepan, toss in strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture transforms into a thick, glossy filling (about 5-7 minutes). Let it cool slightly, then spread evenly over the oat crust.

Step 4: Add the Crowning Crumble

Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the strawberry layer, creating a delightful textured topping. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the filling bubbles with excitement.

Step 5: Slice and Savor

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment paper handles to lift the entire creation out, then slice into squares. Serve as is, or elevate the experience with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Pro Tips for Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe Success

• Customize Crumble Texture: Pulse oat mixture in a food processor for finer, more uniform crumbs that create a smoother, more compact bar base.
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Prebake the crust for 10 minutes before adding strawberry filling to ensure a crisp, golden foundation that won't get mushy.
• Control Sweetness Level: Adjust sugar quantities based on strawberry ripeness; use less sugar for sweeter, in-season berries and more for tart, early-season fruit.
• Boost Nutritional Value: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added nutrients and a nuttier flavor profile.
• Store Smartly: Keep bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to maintain their crisp texture.

Best Ways to Store and Reheat Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

• Store cooled bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and delicious.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for a make-ahead treat.
• Warm gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
• Transfer frozen bars to the refrigerator overnight, then warm slightly before enjoying for the best texture and flavor.

Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sweet strawberry oatmeal crumble bars blend homemade comfort with summer’s freshest flavors. Buttery oat layers sandwich luscious strawberry filling, creating a delightful dessert that welcomes warm memories and simple pleasure.

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Ingredients

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Fruit Topping:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, diced
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Base Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Binding Ingredient:

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking vessel by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy removal. Warm the oven to a precise 350°F (175°C).
2. Craft the foundational oat mixture by combining rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a spacious mixing bowl. Introduce melted butter and blend until the ingredients transform into a delicate, sandy consistency.
3. Compress two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the prepared pan, creating a sturdy, even base that will support the fruity layer.
4. Generate the vibrant strawberry compote by combining fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, continuously stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, approximately 5-7 minutes.
5. Allow the strawberry mixture to cool slightly, then distribute it uniformly across the oat foundation, ensuring complete and even coverage.
6. Scatter the remaining oat mixture delicately over the strawberry layer, creating a rustic, textured topping.
7. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, watching for a golden-brown surface and bubbling edges that indicate perfect doneness.
8. Remove from the oven and permit the bars to cool completely within the pan, allowing the layers to set and flavors to meld.
9. Once cooled, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper, slice into precise squares, and serve. Optional: Complement with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch.

Notes

• Adjust fruit sweetness by selecting ripe, in-season strawberries for natural sugar content and vibrant flavor.
• Choose quick-cooking oats for smoother texture, ensuring consistent crumble consistency without large oat chunks.
• Prevent soggy bottom by fully pre-baking the crust for 10-15 minutes before adding strawberry filling, creating a crisp foundation.
• Customize dietary needs by substituting gluten-free flour blend and using coconut oil instead of butter for vegan-friendly version.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 39 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg