These bars are incredibly simple to prepare and require only basic pantry ingredients. They’re versatile enough to be served as a sweet breakfast option, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a lighter dessert. The combination of a chewy oat base, gooey strawberry center, and crumbly topping is utterly irresistible. Plus, they can be made year-round with fresh or jam-based strawberry filling.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Old-fashioned rolled oats
All-purpose flour
Brown sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter
Vanilla extract
Strawberry preserves or fresh chopped strawberries
Cornstarch (if using fresh strawberries)
Lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add melted butter and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture is crumbly but holds together when pressed.
Press two-thirds of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
Spread strawberry preserves or fresh strawberry mixture evenly over the crust.
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top as a crumb topping.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 9–12 bars, depending on how you cut them. Prep time: 10 minutes Bake time: 30–35 minutes Cooling time: 30–60 minutes Total time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
Use other fruits: Swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries.
Make it vegan: Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of dairy butter.
Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Nutty addition: Add chopped almonds or walnuts to the oat mixture for extra texture.
Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can complement the strawberry flavor nicely.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months—just wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag.
To reheat, warm individual bars in the microwave for 15–20 seconds if desired, or let them come to room temperature naturally.
FAQs
How do I keep the bars from falling apart?
Make sure to let them cool completely before cutting. Cooling helps them set and hold their shape.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but the texture may be softer and slightly less chewy. Old-fashioned oats give a heartier structure.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of preserves?
Yes, just mix chopped strawberries with a bit of sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch to thicken the filling.
Are these bars suitable for breakfast?
Absolutely. They contain oats and fruit, making them a wholesome and satisfying breakfast option.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the bars a day or two ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to serve.
Do I need to refrigerate the bars?
Not necessarily. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, but refrigerating extends their freshness.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase baking time slightly.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the bars helps achieve cleaner edges.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce the brown sugar in the crust/topping slightly, especially if your preserves are very sweet.
What can I serve with these bars?
Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Conclusion
Strawberry Oatmeal Bars are a deliciously easy treat that brings together the cozy texture of oats with the vibrant sweetness of strawberries. Whether you’re baking for family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something sweet yet hearty, these bars hit the mark. Enjoy them any time of day and make them your own with endless variations.
These Strawberry Oatmeal Bars combine a chewy oat crust with a sweet strawberry filling and a crumbly topping. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, they’re easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 to 1 cup strawberry preserves or 1 1/2 cups fresh chopped strawberries
1 tbsp cornstarch (only if using fresh strawberries)
1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until crumbly and the mixture holds together when pressed.
Press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
If using fresh strawberries, mix them with cornstarch and lemon juice. Spread strawberry preserves or prepared fresh strawberry mixture evenly over the crust.
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top as a crumb topping.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.
Notes
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to help them hold their shape.Quick oats can be used, but the texture may be softer.For a vegan version, use vegan butter or coconut oil.To make gluten-free bars, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.Add chopped nuts or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor and texture.
