Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

If you’re looking for the perfect way to enjoy fresh strawberries this season, look no further than these delicious Strawberry Oatmeal Bars. Packed with juicy strawberries and wholesome oats, these bars are the ultimate sweet treat for breakfast or snack time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and irresistible flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Ingredient Science: The combination of oats and strawberries provides a good balance of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin C. Oats are a great source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels, while strawberries are packed with antioxidants that promote overall health.

Substitution Tip: Feel free to swap the strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of your favorite berries for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Toss until the strawberries are evenly coated, then set aside.

3. In another bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly.

4. Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.

5. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the crust.

6. Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the strawberries.

7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

8. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

Expert Tips

These bars are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

I recommend serving these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

FAQ

Are these bars suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, you can easily make these bars gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries are preferable for this recipe, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed and drained. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and cornstarch accordingly based on the juiciness of the berries.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?

If you prefer a less sweet option, you can reduce the amount of sugar in both the strawberry filling and the oat mixture. Keep in mind that this may alter the texture and sweetness of the bars.

How can I prevent the bars from becoming soggy?

To prevent the bars from becoming soggy, make sure to thoroughly drain any excess liquid from the strawberry filling before assembling the bars. Additionally, baking the bars until the top is golden brown will help ensure a crispy texture.

Can I add nuts or seeds to these bars for extra crunch?

Feel free to add chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, or seeds, such as chia or flaxseeds, to the oat mixture for additional texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the measurements accordingly to accommodate the extra ingredients.

Storage & Substitutions

Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm

In conclusion, these Strawberry Oatmeal Bars are a delightful way to enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of strawberries in a convenient and portable form. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, these bars are sure to please. Be sure to try out this recipe and let me know how you liked it in the comments below!

Print