Oatmeal Strawberry Bars
Sweet and buttery oatmeal strawberry bars feature a crisp crust and a luscious strawberry jam filling, perfect for spring gatherings or a delightful teatime treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Butter an 8-inch square pan.
- Line the pan with foil and butter the foil.
- Mix all ingredients except jam until combined.
- Press 2 cups of the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Spread strawberry jam evenly over the crust, leaving a 1/4-inch border.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the jam and lightly press into it.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool on a wire rack before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the jam is spread evenly to prevent the bars from being too dry or sticky. If you're out of strawberry jam, feel free to use any fruit preserve you have on hand, such as raspberry or apricot. For an added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped nuts with the oats.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal strawberry bars make a delightful snack or breakfast option. Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a balanced meal, consider serving with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt to complement the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store the oatmeal strawberry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal Strawberry Bars contains roughly 342 calories, with 0g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1330mg per serving (58% 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 frozen strawberries instead of jam?
While fresh or seedless strawberry jam is recommended for the best flavor and consistency, you can use frozen strawberries. Simply thaw and mash them, then strain to remove excess liquid before spreading them over the crust. This might change the texture slightly but can still yield delicious results.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking. They will firm up a bit as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem slightly soft when you first take them out of the oven.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. They also freeze well, so you can prepare them in advance and store them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
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).