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Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars: A Sweet and Wholesome Treat for Any Occasion

Sweet, wholesome, and packed with the flavors of fresh strawberries and hearty oats, these Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Easy to make and adaptable with seasonal fruits, they’re a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups rolled oats

  • 1 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)

  • ½ cup light brown sugar, packed

  • ½ teaspoon baking powder

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling

  • 2 cups chopped fresh strawberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)

  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or honey/maple syrup)

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease.

  2. In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

  3. Add melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir until crumbly.

  4. Reserve ¾ cup of the crumble mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the pan to form a firm crust.

  5. In another bowl, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and zest. Toss until strawberries are coated.

  6. Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the crust.

  7. Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture evenly over the top of the filling.

  8. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

  9. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into bars. For cleaner cuts, chill for 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • For gluten-free bars, use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend.

  • Substitute other berries or fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.

  • Bars can be stored at room temperature for 2 days, in the refrigerator for 5 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.

  • Optional: Add chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch.