Fruit Oatmeal Bars
Fruit Oatmeal Bars combine hearty oats, sweet fruit preserves, and a buttery crumb topping for a delightful treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, they offer a comforting texture with a hint of fruitiness, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, oats, sugar, melted butter, baking soda, salt, and vanilla in a bowl.
- Beat at low speed until ingredients are mixed.
- Scrape the bowl often until mixture is crumbly, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Reserve 1 cup of the crumb mixture.
- Press the remaining mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Spread the apricot preserves or other fruit evenly over the pressed crust.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the fruit layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this recipe, substitute the apricot preserves with raspberry or strawberry jam for a different flavor. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrition. Ensure your butter is melted but not too hot to avoid cooking the oats prematurely. Mixing in some chopped nuts can add a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These bars make a fantastic snack or breakfast on the go. Serve them with a side of yogurt for added creaminess or pair with fresh fruit for a refreshing touch. They also complement a cup of tea or coffee beautifully. For a dessert option, enjoy them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Fruit Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can microwave individual bars for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Oatmeal Bars contains roughly 366 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 997mg per serving (43% 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 a different type of fruit preserve?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the apricot preserves with any fruit preserves you prefer, such as peach, blackberry, or even orange marmalade. Each will offer a unique flavor profile to the bars, making them versatile for your taste.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! To make these bars vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and use a flax egg or applesauce in place of the egg if needed. Ensure that the preserves you choose are also vegan-friendly.
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).