There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the combination of oats and fresh strawberries that makes me feel like a kid again. The moment I take the first bite of these Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, I’m transported to carefree summer days spent lounging in the sun, with juice dripping down my chin from a perfectly ripe strawberry.
These bars are more than just a treat—they’re a delightful solution for those moments when I crave homemade goodness without the fuss. The rich, buttery oat crust pairs perfectly with sweet, juicy strawberries, creating a snack that’s satisfying and wholesome. As I absorbed the sweet aroma wafting from my oven, I could hardly wait to dig in, knowing they would quickly become a family favorite.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe proves that you can make something extraordinary in your own kitchen without reaching for processed snacks. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on a cozy afternoon, these strawberry oatmeal crumble bars offer a taste of home that’s sure to please everyone. Let’s get baking!
Why will you love Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars?
Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze to follow, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Wholesome ingredients: Featuring fresh strawberries and old-fashioned oats, these bars are a delicious, guilt-free indulgence.
Perfectly balanced: The sweet-tart strawberries are beautifully complemented by the rich, buttery oat crumble, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
Versatile treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast option, snack, or dessert—these bars are perfect for any time of day!
Crowd-pleaser: Bake a batch for family gatherings or potlucks, and watch them disappear in no time!
Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Ingredients
Let’s gather everything you need to create these delightful Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars!
For the Crust
• Old-fashioned oats – gives the bars a hearty texture that you’ll love.
• All-purpose flour – helps bind the crust together for a sturdy base.
• Unsalted butter – melted for richness; feel free to use coconut oil as a dairy-free option.
• Brown sugar – infuses the crust with a touch of caramel flavor.
• Honey – adds natural sweetness; maple syrup would work great here too!
• Large egg – acts as a binder for the crust.
• Ground cinnamon – enhances the flavor with a warm, comforting spice.
• Vanilla extract – a dash of this elevates the overall taste.
• Salt – balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
For the Strawberry Filling
• Strawberries, diced – the star of the show that brings vibrant flavor and color; feel free to mix in blueberries or raspberries for a twist!
• All-purpose flour – helps absorb excess moisture from the strawberries.
• Sugar – complements the strawberries; adjust to taste based on their sweetness.
• Lemon juice – brightens the flavor of the strawberries and adds a refreshing zing.
Now that you have all the ingredients, you’re just a few simple steps away from enjoying these scrumptious Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars!
How to Make Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some to hang over the sides for easy removal later. Don’t forget to grease the paper with non-stick spray!
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Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, flour, melted butter, brown sugar, honey, beaten egg, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and looks like a crumbly dough.
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Press the Base: Reserve ½ cup of the oat mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even, sturdy crust.
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Prepare the Strawberries: In a small bowl, toss together the diced strawberries, 1 tablespoon of flour, sugar, and lemon juice until everything is well coated. Spread this mixture evenly on top of your oat crust.
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Crumble on Top: Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of oat mixture over the strawberry filling, ensuring it’s distributed evenly for that delicious crumble topping.
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Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Once done, cool the bars on the counter for 15 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill completely before slicing.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars
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Perfectly Ripe Strawberries: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Overripe or mushy berries can make the filling too watery.
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Oat Mixture Texture: Ensure your oat mixture is crumbly but well-combined. If it’s too dry, the crust won’t hold together well in these Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars.
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Chill Properly: Allow the bars to cool completely in the refrigerator for optimal slicing. This step helps them firm up and maintain their shape when cut.
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Avoiding a Soggy Bottom: If your strawberries are very juicy, you can add a bit more flour to the filling to help absorb excess moisture and prevent a soggy crust.
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Even Baking: Check the bars toward the end of the baking time; all ovens are different. Look for a golden brown top to indicate they’re ready!
Make Ahead Options
Planning ahead makes creating these delightful Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars a breeze! You can prepare the oat crust mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply mix the oats, flour, melted butter, brown sugar, honey, egg, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Additionally, you can toss the strawberries with flour, sugar, and lemon juice and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy, spread the prepared strawberry mixture over the chilled crust, sprinkle the crumb topping, and bake as directed. This way, your bars are just as delicious fresh out of the oven, but with far less effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars?
Indulging in these delightful bars opens up a world of pairing possibilities that will elevate your snack game.
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Greek Yogurt:
A creamy, tangy sidekick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bars, offering a rich contrast that enhances each bite. -
Fresh Berries:
A bowl of fresh mixed berries brings brightness and freshness, making every mouthful pop with color and flavor; the marriage of flavors is truly refreshing. -
Honey Drizzle:
A light drizzle of honey adds an extra touch of sweetness while accentuating the natural flavors of strawberries, making your dessert feel even more indulgent. -
Mint Tea:
Brew a calming cup of mint tea for a soothing beverage choice. The soothing aroma complements the fruity sweetness beautifully and aids in digestion. -
Ice Cream:
Top these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful mix of hot and cold sensations; it’s a comforting contrast that no one can resist. -
Whipped Cream:
A dollop of fresh whipped cream transforms your bars into a decadent dessert experience, adding creaminess that balances the chewy texture.
Embrace these pairing ideas to craft a full experience around your Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile!
Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful bars with your favorite flavors and ingredients!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
- Berry Mix: Swap strawberries for a mix of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a delightful twist.
- Nutty Addition: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the oat mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to the crumble for a warm, spiced flavor that dances on your palate.
- Maple Sweetened: Replace honey with maple syrup for a unique flavor and a vegan-friendly alternative!
- Coconut Flakes: Stir in 1/2 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut into the oat mixture for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled bars for a decadent finish that satisfies a sweet tooth.
- Savory Herb: Add a tablespoon of fresh chopped basil or mint to the strawberry filling for an unexpected, refreshing herbaceous note.
Experiment with these variations and discover new favorites that suit your taste!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars
Room Temperature: Store these delicious bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: For a longer shelf life, place the bars in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to 3 months!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the bars in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy cold!
Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries. Look for berries that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch. Avoid overripe or mushy strawberries, as they can make the filling too watery, leading to a soggy crust.
How should I store the Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars?
You can store these delightful bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, placing them in the refrigerator can keep them good for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to avoid drying out!
What are the freezing instructions for these bars?
To freeze your Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, it’s best to wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then wrap them in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps preserve their flavor and texture for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat for about 15-20 seconds in the microwave, or enjoy them cold.
Why is my crust falling apart?
If your crust is falling apart, it may be due to the oat mixture being too dry or not sufficiently pressed into the pan. Make sure to mix all the ingredients well and to firmly press the base mixture into the baking pan for an even, sturdy crust. It’s also worth checking that you’re using the right measurements, as even small deviations can impact the outcome.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Very! To make gluten-free Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use certified gluten-free oats as well, to avoid any gluten contamination. These adjustments will still give you delicious results!
Are there any dietary considerations for these bars?
If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, this recipe can be made dairy-free by using coconut oil instead of butter. Additionally, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option. Just keep in mind that you might need to adjust the sweetness according to your preference!
Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe FAQs
Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars That Make Life Sweeter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some to hang over the sides for easy removal later. Don’t forget to grease the paper with non-stick spray!
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, flour, melted butter, brown sugar, honey, beaten egg, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and looks like a crumbly dough.
- Reserve ½ cup of the oat mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even, sturdy crust.
- In a small bowl, toss together the diced strawberries, 1 tablespoon of flour, sugar, and lemon juice until everything is well coated. Spread this mixture evenly on top of your oat crust.
- Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of oat mixture over the strawberry filling, ensuring it's distributed evenly for that delicious crumble topping.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Once done, cool the bars on the counter for 15 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill completely before slicing.