Strawberry Crumb Bars Recipe

There is something utterly magical about a good strawberry dessert that delivers sweet, tangy, and crumbly all at once. This Strawberry Crumb Bars Recipe is one of my absolute favorites to bake and share with friends because it captures the essence of fresh strawberries nestled in a buttery oat crust, topped with the perfect crumbly layer and finished with a smooth glaze. It’s a simple yet show-stopping treat that brings the warmth of homemade baking and is guaranteed to brighten any gathering or quiet afternoon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting these ingredients together is easy, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the texture and flavor that make these bars unforgettable. From the hearty oats to the rich butter and fresh strawberries, every component builds layers of taste and crumbly goodness.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for both the crust and crumb topping.
• ¾ cup old-fashioned oats: Adds wonderful texture and a rustic feel to the crumb layers.
• ¾ cup brown sugar: Brings deep caramel notes that complement the berries beautifully.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• ½ tsp baking powder: Helps lighten the crumb topping just enough for a tender bite.
• ½ cup unsalted cold butter (8 tbsp): Essential for that rich, flaky crumb — cold butter is the secret to great texture.
• ¼ cup milk: Binds the crumb topping and crust together delicately.
• 2 ½ cups diced strawberries: The star of the show, bringing freshness and juiciness to every bite.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the strawberry filling.
• ½ tsp cinnamon: A subtle hint of spice that makes the strawberries pop.
• 1 ½ tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the strawberry filling for just the right consistency.
• 1 ½ tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens the strawberry mix naturally.
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar: For the glaze that gives the bars that perfect sweet finish.
• 3 tsp milk: Combined with powdered sugar to create a drizzling glaze.

How to Make Strawberry Crumb Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start your baking adventure by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Setting the temperature early ensures your crumb bars bake evenly and develop that dreamy golden crust.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients for Crust and Crumbles

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. This combination forms the foundation of both the crust and the crumb topping, so it’s vital that everything is well mixed and balanced.

Step 3: Cut in the Butter

Now, slice up your cold butter and toss it into your dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter (or your fingers, if you don’t have one), work the butter into the mix until you see pea-sized clumps. This step will give the crumb its wonderful flaky texture once baked.

Step 4: Add Milk and Form Crust

Pour in the milk and stir just enough to bring the mixture together. It should hold loosely but not be overly wet. Spray or line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, then press about two-thirds to three-quarters of this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom—that’s your crust layer.

Step 5: Bake the Crust

Pop the baking dish in the oven and let that crust bake for around 30 minutes. You are looking for the edges to turn a subtle golden brown, signaling that it’s perfectly baked and ready for the strawberry filling.

Step 6: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

While the crust is baking, place your diced strawberries in a bowl and gently mash them using a potato masher. This slight mashing releases the juicy sweetness but keeps some berry chunks intact. Then drain any excess juice to avoid sogginess.

Step 7: Mix the Strawberry Filling

To the mashed strawberries, add vanilla extract, cinnamon, flour, and powdered sugar. Mix everything well to create a thick, flavorful filling that will hold beautifully over the crust.

Step 8: Layer Strawberry Filling and Remaining Crumble

Once the crust comes out of the oven, carefully spoon the strawberry mixture on top and evenly sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the strawberries for that classic textured top layer.

Step 9: Final Baking

Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25 minutes. The crumble should turn golden and slightly crisp, while the strawberry filling bubbles gently underneath. Allow the bars to cool completely, which helps them set perfectly.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Mix powdered sugar and milk to make a simple glaze and drizzle it over the cooled bars. This final touch adds a delightful sweetness and attractive shine to your creation, making your Strawberry Crumb Bars Recipe truly irresistible.

How to Serve Strawberry Crumb Bars Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra pop of freshness, I love garnishing these bars with a few whole fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of toasted oats. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds an elegant, bakery-style finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the crumbly texture with creamy coolness. A hot cup of tea or coffee also complements the sweet and slightly tart flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re bringing these bars to a party, consider cutting them into bite-sized squares and placing them on a pretty platter lined with parchment. Layering them with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers can elevate their presentation dramatically, making your Strawberry Crumb Bars Recipe a centerpiece dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These bars keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days and refrigerate well for up to five days. Just make sure they are completely cool before storing to maintain the crumb texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the bars, wrapped well in foil and placed in a freezer-safe container, for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm slightly if you like that just-baked feeling again.

Reheating

For a warm and gooey treat, reheat leftover bars in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave for reheating if you want to keep the crumb topping crisp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free oats to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets without sacrificing texture.

How do I prevent the crumb topping from becoming soggy?

Ensure you drain excess juice from the strawberries before mixing the filling, and bake the bottom crust first to set a sturdy base that helps keep the crumb topping crisp.

Can I add other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry combination work wonderfully and bring their own unique flavors to this crumb bar recipe.

What’s the best way to cut the bars without crumbling?

Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water and dried before slicing. Cutting when the bars are fully cooled also helps keep the crumb topping intact.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find as much joy in baking and sharing these Strawberry Crumb Bars Recipe as I do. They are the kind of dessert that feels both comforting and special, perfect for any season and any occasion. Once you try them, I have no doubt they will become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!

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