Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

Think of the Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars as a warm hug on a chilly day; they offer comfort and nourishment in every bite. Packed with fresh strawberries and wholesome ingredients, these bars are easy to make and perfect for any time of day. If you want a dessert that’s both satisfying and healthy, stick around to discover how simple it is to whip up this delicious recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you try this Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite for many. First, it’s a healthier option, using low added sugars and high-fiber oats, making it a guilt-free treat.

With ingredients like almond flour and coconut oil, it’s also non-GMO and vegan. The preparation is a breeze, taking just 15 minutes with simple ingredients that don’t require special equipment. Additionally, these bars are made with whole, fresh ingredients, ensuring that every bite is nourishing and delicious.

Plus, these bars are versatile; you can enjoy them as breakfast or dessert. The fresh strawberry flavor combined with a crunchy crumble texture creates a delightful snack.

Don’t forget the lemon zest; it adds a rejuvenating twist. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from picnics to birthday parties!

History

Strawberry oatmeal crumble bars have a rich history that reflects their evolution from traditional fruit crumbles to the delightful treat you enjoy today.

Fruit crumbles originated during World War II when rationing led people to create simple desserts from available ingredients. Over time, these crumbles adapted to include various fruits and toppings, with oatmeal becoming a staple for its texture. Strawberries often grown on cardamom farms have been used in desserts since the Middle Ages. Different cultures have put their spin on crumble bars, introducing unique fruits and spices.

Today, you can find many variations, thanks to modern baking techniques and tools that make preparation easier, allowing you to savor this delicious treat with ease.

Recipe

Ingredients:
– ½ cup unsalted butter (or coconut oil for vegan)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
– 1 cup old-fashioned oats (or gluten-free rolled oats)
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for strawberries)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
In a medium bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour, oats, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly, making sure that the mixture has a texture similar to coarse crumbs. Refrigerate this crumble mixture for at least 15 minutes.
In another bowl, combine the chopped strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss well to coat the strawberries and let them sit for a few minutes to release their juices.
Take the crumble mixture out of the refrigerator. Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the strawberries.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
After cooling, refrigerate the bars for at least 30 minutes to firm up before slicing into squares. Storage time for the bars can be up to 1 week at room temperature, ensuring they stay delicious for longer.

For the best results, make certain that the butter is cold when mixing it into the crumble for a flaky texture.

If you’re using fresh strawberries, opt for ripe ones for maximum sweetness.

Feel free to experiment with different types of sweeteners or add-ins like nuts or seeds for added texture. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars!

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your baking adventure, it’s important to reflect on how these Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars not only taste great but also offer a range of benefits.

They’re made with real strawberries and whole grains, making them a delicious and healthy option for breakfast or snacks. Each bar is individually wrapped, perfect for on-the-go enjoyment. Additionally, these bars are a great source of whole grains, which contribute to their nutritional value.

With only 140 calories and 3 grams of dietary fiber, you can indulge guilt-free. Plus, they’re plant-based, non-GMO, and free from artificial flavors and cholesterol.

Many consumers praise their intense strawberry flavor and satisfying crumb topping, appreciating that they serve as a healthier alternative to other sweets.

FAQ

When it comes to making Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, you might’ve some questions about the ingredients, preparation, or storage.

The essential ingredients include butter, flour, oats, sugars, salt, fresh strawberries, lemon juice, and cornstarch. You can also use gluten-free oats for a vegan version or substitute strawberries with other fruits like blueberries or peaches. Additionally, the recipe features a vegan dessert that appeals to both vegans and non-vegans alike.

For preparation, mix the dry ingredients, combine with melted butter, and set aside some for the topping. Bake at 350°F, cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

If you want to freeze them, they’ll last about 2 ½ weeks. Remember to refrigerate the crumble before baking for a better texture!