Strawberry Oatmeal Crumb Bars

These Strawberry Oatmeal Crumb Bars are the epitome of comfort in dessert form. With a buttery, oat-infused crust and topping, and a sweet-tart strawberry filling, they offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a delightful breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these bars fit the bill. They’re incredibly easy to make, naturally dairy-free, and can be prepared in just 30 minutes. The best part? They make great use of fresh, in-season strawberries, turning them into a portable, shareable delight.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Requires just 30 minutes of prep time.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
• Naturally Dairy-Free: Made with coconut oil instead of butter.
• Customizable: Can be made with whole wheat or gluten-free flour.
• Seasonal: Highlights the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries.
• No Mixer Needed: Everything comes together with just two bowls and a whisk.

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Ingredients

For the crust and topping:

• 1 ½ cups (135g) old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour for a heartier texture)
• ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ⅛ tsp salt
• 10 tbsp (140g) unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)

For the strawberry filling:

• 2 cups (about 300g) fresh strawberries, chopped into small pieces
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

2. Make the Crust and Topping
In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter (or coconut oil) and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand with some larger clumps. Set aside about ¾ cup of this mixture for the topping.

3. Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch until well combined.

4. Assemble the Bars
Press the remaining oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the top, pressing it down lightly.

5. Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling around the edges.

6. Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.

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You Must Know

• Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats may result in a softer crust.
• Strawberries: Fresh, in-season strawberries yield the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they’re thawed and drained well.
• Flour: Whole wheat pastry flour adds a nutty flavor and heartier texture, while all-purpose flour keeps the bars lighter.
• Butter vs. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil provides a subtle coconut flavor and makes the bars dairy-free.

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Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well. Wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Ingredient Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum.
• Sweetener: Substitute granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Oats: Steel-cut oats can be used but will result in a chewier texture.

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Serving Suggestions

• With Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream.
• For Breakfast: Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat.
• As a Snack: Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

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Cultural and Historical Context

Oatmeal bars have long been a staple in American baking, prized for their simplicity and heartiness. The addition of strawberries brings a seasonal sweetness, making these bars a perfect way to showcase fresh summer fruit. Whether served at a picnic, potluck, or as an after-school snack, they offer a nostalgic taste of homemade goodness.

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Pro Tips

• Even Layering: Press the crust mixture firmly to create a solid base that holds together well.
• Topping Texture: For a crunchier topping, bake the bars a few minutes longer, keeping an eye to prevent burning.
• Serving Warm: Reheat slightly before serving for a just-baked experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but ensure they’re thawed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture.

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well and can be made a day or two in advance.

→ Can I add nuts to the crumble?
Pecans or walnuts can be added to the oat mixture for added crunch and flavor.

→ How do I know when the bars are done?
The top should be golden brown, and the strawberry filling should be bubbling around the edges.

→ Can I use a different fruit?
Yes, blueberries, raspberries, or peaches can be used in place of strawberries.

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These Strawberry Oatmeal Crumb Bars are a delightful blend of sweet and tart, with a satisfying crunch that makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or sharing them at a gathering, they’re sure to be a hit.

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