Oatmeal Jumble Bars
These delightful oatmeal jumble bars combine chewy oats, sweet brown sugar, and jam filling, making a comforting treat perfect for snacking or dessert with a hint of buttery richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except jam and mix well.
- Reserve 1 cup of the mixture.
- Press the remaining mixture onto the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Spread jam evenly over the base, leaving about 1/2 inch of space from the edges.
- Sprinkle the reserved mixture over the jam.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool completely before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider using rolled oats instead of quick oats. You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If you don't have jam on hand, try using a fruit spread or even a layer of nut butter mixed with honey. For an added flavor boost, incorporate a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Oatmeal Jumble Bars make a delightful snack on their own and pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a more indulgent dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a great addition to a picnic or lunchbox, complementing fresh fruit or a refreshing Powder House Salad Delight.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place in a microwave for a few seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal Jumble Bars contains roughly 444 calories, with 13g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 types of jam or preserves?
Absolutely! You can use any flavor of jam or preserves you prefer, such as raspberry, apricot, or even a mix of different fruits. Just ensure the jam is thick enough to spread without running off the edges.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Keep an eye on the bars during the last few minutes of baking. They should be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to also use certified gluten-free oats. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious!
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).