Strawberry Oatmeal Bars: The Ultimate Healthy Snack

Jump to Recipe

Strawberry oatmeal bars are the perfect treat for anyone craving a delicious, nutritious snack. Made with fresh strawberries and a buttery oat crumble, these bars provide the ideal balance of sweetness and heartiness. Not only are they easy to make, but they are also versatile enough to serve as a healthy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a light dessert. If you’re looking for a simple, homemade alternative to store-bought snacks, these strawberry oatmeal bars are the way to go!

Why Strawberry Oatmeal Bars Are a Must-Try

These strawberry oatmeal bars are not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re following a vegan, gluten-free, or traditional diet, this recipe is flexible and accommodating. The combination of oats and strawberries creates a naturally sweet and satisfying treat, without the need for excess sugar. You’ll also love the buttery oat crumble topping, which adds a perfect amount of texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible strawberry oatmeal bars:

• Oats: Quick oats or rolled oats provide a chewy texture that holds the bars together and adds fiber.

• Flour: A base for the crumble topping. You can use spelt, oat, or all-purpose flour, depending on your preference.

• Sugar: For a touch of sweetness. You can use regular white sugar, brown sugar, or opt for sugar-free alternatives like xylitol or erythritol.

• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries.

• Baking Powder: Helps the bars rise and creates a soft, yet sturdy texture.

• Salt: Balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients.

• Oil or Butter: You can use sunflower oil, vegetable oil, or melted coconut oil, or go for butter or a dairy-free alternative for a richer flavor.

• Strawberries: Fresh or frozen strawberries will work. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them before adding to the filling.

• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the strawberry filling and prevents it from becoming too runny.

• Maple Syrup: Adds a natural sweetener to the strawberry filling, but you can use any sweetener you prefer.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing any ingredients or following a specific dietary plan, here are some easy swaps:

• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.

• Vegan: Replace the butter with coconut oil or another plant-based alternative, and choose a vegan-friendly sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar.

• Sugar-Free: Substitute the sugar with erythritol or stevia to make the bars sugar-free while still maintaining a sweet flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, cinnamon, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Stir well.
Add the oil or melted butter to the dry ingredients, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Reserve about 1/3 of the dough for the topping.
Press the remaining dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming an even layer.

In a separate bowl, mix the diced strawberries with cornstarch and maple syrup. Pour this strawberry mixture over the oat layer in the pan.
Sprinkle the reserved dough over the strawberry layer and press it down firmly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least an hour to allow them to firm up before cutting into squares.

Tips & Tricks

To make your strawberry oatmeal bars even better, here are some tips:

• Firmness: For a firmer texture, ensure that the dough is pressed down firmly. Refrigerating the bars after baking will help them set and hold together better.

• Additional Flavor: Add a dash of vanilla extract to the oat dough for an extra layer of flavor. You can also sprinkle some shredded coconut or chocolate chips on top before baking.

• Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These strawberry oatmeal bars are delicious on their own, but here are some ways to elevate them:

• Nut Butters: Drizzle peanut butter, almond butter, or coconut butter over the bars for added creaminess.

• Dairy-Free: Top with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream or a scoop of coconut yogurt for a decadent treat.

• Fruit Variations: Try swapping the strawberries for other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for a different flavor profile.

• Ice Cream: Serve these strawberry oatmeal bars with a scoop of vanilla or coconut milk ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Health Benefits of Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

These strawberry oatmeal bars are more than just a sweet treat – they’re also packed with healthy ingredients:

• Fiber-Rich: Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which helps maintain healthy digestion and keep you full longer.

• Antioxidants: Fresh strawberries are loaded with antioxidants that support your immune system and promote healthy skin.

• Low in Calories: When cut into 16 bars, each one contains just 100 calories, making them a great low-calorie snack option.

With these benefits, you can enjoy a guilt-free snack any time of day!

Conclusion

Strawberry oatmeal bars are the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients, natural sweetness, and hearty oats. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert, these bars deliver on taste and nutrition. Their chewy texture, combined with the burst of fresh strawberries, makes every bite irresistible. Best of all, they’re versatile and easy to prepare, making them ideal for any occasion. With a simple set of ingredients, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat that satisfies your cravings. So, grab your oats, strawberries, and a few pantry staples, and get ready to make these strawberry oatmeal bars the new favorite in your snack repertoire!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen strawberries for strawberry oatmeal bars?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in this recipe. However, make sure to thaw them first and blot away any excess moisture with paper towels to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

How do I make the strawberry oatmeal bars gluten-free?

To make the strawberry oatmeal bars gluten-free, simply substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free oats. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

Can I replace the butter with a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! You can replace the butter with coconut oil or another dairy-free alternative like vegan butter. This will make the bars suitable for those following a dairy-free or vegan diet.

More Relevant Recipes

Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe