Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cozy, sweet treats that feel like a warm hug, then you are absolutely going to adore this Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Recipe. It combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the bright, fruity punch of strawberry preserves and fresh strawberries, all wrapped up in a buttery, crumbly crust that’s irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving a comforting snack, these bars strike the perfect balance between chewy and crumbly, sweet and slightly tangy, leaving every bite bursting with flavor and texture that’s simply unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a vital role in making the perfect Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Recipe. The oats bring heartiness, the strawberry preserves deliver sweetness and tang, and the two types of flour create a delicate yet sturdy crumb that holds everything together beautifully.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the bars and a tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup almond flour: Adds a subtle nutty flavor and buttery texture without overwhelming the other ingredients.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the dough rise just enough for a light, airy texture.
• 1 tsp cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the strawberries perfectly and adds depth.
• 1 cup butter (2 sticks unsalted, room temperature): The secret to that rich, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and contributes to a light texture.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed): Brings a hint of caramel flavor and moisture.
• 2 cups quick oats: Give these bars that hearty chew and rustic charm.
• 1 18 ounces jar strawberry preserves: The fruit-forward base layer that bursts with sweetness and a little tartness.
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries (diced): Adds freshness and a juicy pop in every bite.

How to Make Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 inch cake pan with parchment paper so your bars won’t stick, making it easier to lift them out later. This simple prep step sets you up for success and saves cleanup time.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Mixing these first ensures the spices and leavening are evenly distributed throughout your bars for consistent flavor and texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using an electric hand mixer, beat the room temperature butter along with both granulated and light brown sugars until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This step helps incorporate air, creating a lighter crumb in the final bars.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients to Sugar Mixture

Now, gradually pour about one-third of your flour mixture into the creamy butter and sugar. Beat on medium speed just until combined, then add the remaining flour mixture. Continue beating until you get a rough, slightly crumbly dough that holds together well.

Step 5: Fold in the Oats

Pour in the quick oats, and gently knead them into the dough by hand until they’re evenly dispersed. This gives the bars their signature hearty bite and a lovely rustic appearance.

Step 6: Form the Base Layer

Take about two-thirds of your oat dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. This creates the sturdy, buttery base that will support your delicious strawberry filling.

Step 7: Add the Strawberry Filling

Spread the jar of strawberry preserves evenly over the dough layer, then scatter the diced fresh strawberries on top. These fresh berries add extra juiciness and texture that make this Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Recipe stand out.

Step 8: Crumble the Remaining Dough on Top

Sprinkle the final third of your dough over the strawberry layer in generous, uneven chunks. This crumbly topping will bake to a golden brown, providing a delightful contrast to the soft filling below.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Bake your bars in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top looks golden and crisp. The aroma will be absolutely irresistible as the cinnamon and strawberry scents fill your kitchen.

Step 10: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a rack before cutting them into 16 squares. Cooling is key for bars to set properly and hold their shape when sliced.

How to Serve Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh mint leaves, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the presentation while adding fresh, creamy, or aromatic notes to each serving.

Side Dishes

Pair your bars with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat, or serve alongside plain yogurt or vanilla ice cream to balance the sweetness with creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, consider stacking the bars on a pretty serving tray or placing individual squares in festive cupcake liners. You could even drizzle some melted white chocolate or a berry glaze over the tops for a fancy touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, these Strawberry Oatmeal Bars keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is a good idea to maintain freshness.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months frozen, making for a perfect ready-made snack when you want something sweet on hand.

Reheating

Pop frozen bars into a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds to enjoy them warm, bringing back that freshly baked feel and delicious melty texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of jam or preserves?

Absolutely! While strawberry preserves are classic here, raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot preserves can also make fantastic fillings, each bringing their own unique twist to the bars.

Are these bars gluten-free?

This specific recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version if needed, keeping the almond flour for extra texture.

Can I substitute the almond flour?

If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use almond flour, you can try oat flour or additional all-purpose flour. Just be aware that the texture will be slightly different without the nutty flavor.

What’s the best way to dice the fresh strawberries?

Use ripe but firm strawberries, slice off the green tops, and cut them into small, roughly uniform pieces. This way, they’ll distribute evenly without creating too much moisture in the filling.

Can I make these bars vegan?

For a vegan option, replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute and check that your preserves don’t contain gelatin. The bars may be a bit different in texture but just as delicious!

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about making and sharing this Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Recipe. From the simple ingredients to the delightful medley of flavors and textures, these bars are guaranteed to become a favorite in your baking rotation. Don’t wait for a special occasion — grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the cozy magic of homemade strawberry oat bars today!

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