Easy Oatmeal Squares
Sweet and hearty oatmeal squares with cherry filling, perfect for breakfast or snack. Crispy topping and fruity center make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients (oatmeal, flour, salt, baking powder) together well and cut in oleo until crumbly.
- Line a well-greased 9 x 13-inch pan with half of the crumb mixture, pressing down evenly with a greased spoon or spatula.
- Spread the pie filling evenly over the crumb base.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top as a topping.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before slicing into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also replace oleo with coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option. If you're out of pie filling, any fruit preserves or jam can work well as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the crumb mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal squares make a delightful dessert or snack on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of lemon sorbet for a refreshing contrast. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness. For a cozy breakfast treat, enjoy them alongside a warm cup of spiced perked punch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover oatmeal squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place squares in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. They can also be enjoyed cold as a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Oatmeal Squares contains roughly 129 calories, with 4g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2291mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different flavors of pie filling?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile, allowing you to use any flavor of pie filling you prefer, such as apple, blueberry, or peach. Just ensure the filling is thick enough to spread evenly without making the base soggy.
Is it possible to make these oatmeal squares gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure your oats are certified gluten-free as well to avoid cross-contamination.
How do I know when the oatmeal squares are done baking?
The squares are done when they turn golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).