Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the combination of sweet, juicy strawberries and a rich, buttery oat crumble. Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are the perfect balance of tart and sweet, chewy and crisp, and they make a delightful snack or dessert. These bars are not only delicious but are also surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re craving a comforting breakfast, a picnic treat, or a dessert to share with family and friends, these bars are sure to satisfy.

Made with a hearty oat-based crust and topping, a luscious strawberry filling, and a dash of vanilla and cinnamon for warmth, these bars are a timeless treat with a modern twist. They can be made in advance and stored, making them perfect for busy days when you want a delicious homemade snack.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every aspect of making Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, from ingredients and equipment to the step-by-step process and expert tips. Plus, we’ll explore various flavor variations, how to serve the bars, and storage tips, ensuring that your bars always turn out perfectly.

Why Choose Oats for the Crumble?

Oats are the perfect base for crumble bars because of their texture, flavor, and versatility. Here’s why they are so integral to this recipe:

Texture:

Oats add a chewy, hearty texture that contrasts wonderfully with the soft, juicy strawberry filling. When baked, they create a crumble topping that is both slightly crisp and tender, adding the ideal bite to the bars.

Flavor:

The mild, nutty flavor of oats complements the sweetness of the strawberry filling without overpowering it. The oats absorb the sweetness and cinnamon from the crumble mixture, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Health Benefits:

Oats are naturally high in fiber, which helps keep you full and satisfied. They are also a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing a steady release of energy. Using oats in the crumble also makes the bars more wholesome and a bit healthier than traditional buttery crust-based bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make your Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch Baking Pan: This size is perfect for the right ratio of crumble to fruit filling. If you use a different size pan, you may need to adjust the baking time.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need two mixing bowls, one for the fruit filling and one for the crumble topping.
• Saucepan: For cooking down the strawberries and thickening the filling.
• Whisk or Spoon: For stirring the filling and crumble ingredients.
• Pastry Cutter or Fork: For cutting the butter into the dry ingredients for the crumble.
• Parchment Paper: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper makes it easy to remove the bars once they’re baked and cool.
• Spatula or Knife: To help spread the strawberry filling and crumble evenly in the pan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and tools, let’s walk through the process of making these delicious Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars.

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling

1. Prepare the Strawberries:
   • Wash and hull the fresh strawberries, removing the stems and leaves. Cut them into small pieces, about 1/2-inch to 1-inch in size. You should have approximately 3 to 4 cups of chopped strawberries.
2. Cook the Filling:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. If you’re using cinnamon, add it here as well.
   • Heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir frequently, allowing the strawberries to release their juices and the cornstarch to thicken the mixture.
   • Once the filling has thickened (about 5-8 minutes), remove it from the heat. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the crumble topping.

Step 2: Make the Oatmeal Crumble

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
2. Add Cold Butter:
   • Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands to work the butter into the dry ingredients. Continue until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want some small chunks of butter to remain—this will create a beautiful, flaky texture in the crumble.
3. Add Vanilla Extract:
   • Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. If you are adding nuts, seeds, or coconut, fold them in at this point.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
   • Line your 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to make it easier to remove the bars after baking.
2. Layer the Crumble and Filling:
   • Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a firm base layer. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure it’s even and packed down.
3. Add the Strawberry Filling:
   • Spoon the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the crumble base. Spread it out gently with a spatula.
4. Top with Remaining Crumble:
   • Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the strawberry filling. It doesn’t have to be completely even; some gaps are fine, as the crumble will bake into a golden, slightly uneven topping.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

1. Bake the Bars:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling at the edges.
2. Cool the Bars:
   • Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The filling needs time to set, so don’t skip the cooling process.
3. Slice and Serve:
   • Once completely cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Serve immediately or store for later!

Flavor Variations

Adding Nuts and Seeds

For extra crunch and flavor, try adding nuts or seeds to your crumble. Some great options include:

• Walnuts: Coarsely chopped walnuts add a rich, slightly bitter flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Pecans: If you want a milder, buttery flavor, try adding chopped pecans.
• Almonds: Sliced almonds bring a delicate crunch and an aromatic flavor that complements the oats and fruit filling.
• Chia Seeds: Add a tablespoon or two of chia seeds to the crumble for an additional boost of fiber and omega-3s.
• Sunflower Seeds: Sunflower seeds add a mild, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch.

Incorporating Spices

Feel free to experiment with spices to make the filling more exciting. Options include:

• Ground Ginger: A small pinch of ground ginger adds warmth and a subtle kick.
• Allspice: This spice brings a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove flavors and complements the fruit beautifully.
• Cloves: If you enjoy a slightly more intense flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves to your strawberry filling.

Using Different Fruits

While strawberries are the star in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other fruits for a twist:

• Raspberries: Their tartness pairs wonderfully with the sweet oat crumble.
• Blueberries: Use fresh or frozen blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.
• Peaches: Fresh peach slices work wonderfully in the filling, offering a juicy sweetness.
• Mixed Berries: Combine strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a vibrant, fruity filling.

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are delightful on their own, but here are a few serving ideas to make them even more special:

• With a Dollop of Whipped Cream: Serve warm or at room temperature with a generous scoop of freshly whipped cream on top.
• With Ice Cream: Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• As a Breakfast Treat: These bars make a great breakfast option, especially if you add nuts or seeds to the crumble topping. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy morning treat.
• With Fresh Strawberries: For a fresh contrast, serve the bars with sliced strawberries or a strawberry compote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen strawberries work well in this recipe, but you may need to cook them slightly longer to reduce excess moisture.

Q: Can I use gluten-free flour for the crumble?
Absolutely. You can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for all-purpose flour in the crumble topping.

Q: How do I make these bars less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Q: Can I make the crumble topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crumble topping in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are a delicious and versatile treat that everyone will love. With their combination of juicy strawberry filling and buttery oatmeal crumble, these bars offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you serve them as a sweet snack, a dessert, or even a breakfast treat, they are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Advanced Tips for Perfect Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are a few more advanced techniques you can use to ensure your Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars come out perfectly every time. These tips will help you enhance flavor, texture, and presentation.

1. Perfecting the Strawberry Filling

While the strawberry filling is straightforward, you can take a few extra steps to make sure it turns out beautifully:

• Strain the Juices: If you prefer a thicker filling that holds together better when slicing the bars, strain the juices from the strawberries before combining them with the other filling ingredients. This will prevent the filling from becoming too runny while baking.
• Cook the Filling Longer: For an even thicker filling, let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes on low heat. This will allow the fruit to break down further, and the cornstarch to fully activate, resulting in a thicker and more jam-like consistency. This is particularly helpful if you like a more structured filling that doesn’t ooze too much when cutting the bars.
• Add Fruit Zest: You can add zest from a lemon or orange to the strawberry filling to boost its citrusy flavor. This will add a bright, aromatic note that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries.

2. Butter vs. Oil in the Crumble

Though butter is traditionally used in crumble toppings for its rich flavor and texture, you can experiment with other fats if you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free alternative:

• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil can substitute for butter to give your bars a tropical twist. It adds a subtle coconut flavor to the crumble and can help keep it vegan. Use it in the same quantity as butter, but make sure it’s solidified before incorporating it into the dry ingredients.
• Olive Oil: If you’re seeking a healthier fat option with a fruity edge, extra virgin olive oil works well. It’s especially nice if you plan to add nuts to the crumble, as it complements the nutty flavor of oats and the strawberries.

3. Ensuring Even Crumble Texture

For the perfect crumbly topping, make sure to handle the crumble mixture gently:

• Cold Ingredients Are Key: Ensure your butter (or fat of choice) is very cold when you incorporate it into the dry ingredients. Cold butter creates a flakier, more crumbly texture. Don’t overwork the crumble mixture, as this could result in a dense or doughy topping rather than a crisp crumble.
• Use a Pastry Cutter or Fork: To mix the butter into the dry ingredients, a pastry cutter works best for achieving the ideal texture. If you don’t have one, a fork or your hands can also do the job, but be gentle to avoid melting the butter with your hands.

4. Keeping the Bars from Being Too Sweet

If you prefer a more balanced or slightly tart flavor, you can control the sweetness level of the Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars:

• Reduce Sugar in Filling: Strawberries are naturally sweet, so you can reduce the sugar in the filling by about 25% without sacrificing flavor. You can also substitute part of the sugar with maple syrup or honey for a more natural sweetness.
• Use Less Sugar in the Crumble: The crumble itself is naturally sweet from the brown sugar, so feel free to adjust the sugar level to your liking. Cutting down by a tablespoon or two will still provide that crumbly texture while keeping the overall bar from being overly sweet.
• Incorporate Tart Fruit: To offset the sweetness, consider mixing in tart fruits like raspberries or blackberries into the filling, or swap out some of the strawberries for them. These fruits provide a natural tang that complements the sweetness of the crumble.

Healthier Options and Modifications

For those looking for a healthier version of Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, here are some substitutions and modifications:

1. Swap the Flour for a Healthier Alternative

• Whole Wheat Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add fiber and more nutrients to the bars. Whole wheat flour provides a heartier texture, but be aware that it may make the crumble topping slightly denser. You can use a 1:1 substitution ratio.
• Almond Flour: For a gluten-free option, try using almond flour. This flour will add richness and a slightly nutty flavor to the crumble topping. You’ll likely need to use less of it, so start with 1 cup and adjust as needed.
• Oat Flour: Another great gluten-free option is oat flour, which you can make yourself by blending rolled oats in a food processor or high-speed blender. It has a mild flavor and contributes to the chewy texture of the bars.

2. Sweeteners:

• Natural Sweeteners: Instead of refined sugar, you can use healthier sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. These options will give a more complex sweetness and may offer some additional nutrients like antioxidants or minerals.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit: If you’re looking to cut down on sugar altogether, stevia or monk fruit can be used as a sugar substitute in both the filling and the crumble. Keep in mind that these are much sweeter than sugar, so you’ll need to adjust quantities accordingly.

3. Vegan and Dairy-Free Options

If you’re making these bars vegan or dairy-free, there are simple swaps you can make:

• Butter Substitution: Use plant-based butter or coconut oil as a substitute for the butter in the crumble topping. Both options will create a lovely texture without the dairy.
• Non-Dairy Milk: If you want to add a splash of milk to the strawberry filling (for smoothness), use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Any of these will work well with the fruit’s flavor.
• Egg Substitutes: While the recipe doesn’t require eggs, if you’re adding additional dry ingredients that need binding (like ground flaxseeds), use a flax or chia egg to bind the crumble mixture.

4. Add More Fiber and Nutrients

• Chia Seeds: Add chia seeds to the filling or crumble for extra fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and a bit of texture. They will also help thicken the fruit filling slightly.
• Flaxseeds: Ground flaxseeds are another excellent source of fiber and omega-3s. Stir them into the crumble for added nutritional benefits.
• Pumpkin Seeds: You can add pumpkin seeds to the crumble for extra crunch and a nutty flavor. They’re also a good source of zinc and magnesium.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

While Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are delicious on their own, you can elevate their presentation and serving by pairing them with the following ideas:

1. Drizzle with a Glaze or Sauce

A simple glaze can elevate the bars into something even more indulgent. Try drizzling them with:

• Vanilla Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a bit of milk to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled bars for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Chocolate Ganache: For a decadent twist, melt dark chocolate with heavy cream to make a ganache. Drizzle this over the bars for a rich contrast to the fruity filling.

2. Serve with Yogurt or Ice Cream

• Greek Yogurt: Serve the bars with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast to the crumby texture. The tanginess of the yogurt pairs well with the sweetness of the strawberry filling.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on the side makes for a classic pairing. For a more sophisticated twist, try pairing with balsamic strawberry ice cream or coconut milk-based ice cream for a dairy-free alternative.

3. Create Mini Bars for Parties

For parties or gatherings, you can cut the bars into smaller squares or rectangles to make bite-sized treats. These mini bars are perfect for dessert platters and can be served with a variety of toppings, such as:

• Fresh Mint: Garnish each bar with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and a refreshing taste.
• Berry Compote: Serve the bars alongside a spoonful of mixed berry compote to add more flavor and a touch of elegance.
• Whipped Cream: A light swirl of fresh whipped cream will add an airy texture to the dessert and make it feel like a treat.

Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are an incredibly versatile and satisfying treat. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a sweet dessert or want a healthier snack with whole grains and fruit, these bars can be easily customized to suit your preferences.

Yield: 9

Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

Print

There's something irresistible about the combination of sweet, juicy strawberries and a rich, buttery oat crumble. Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are the perfect balance of tart and sweet, chewy and crisp, and they make a delightful snack or dessert. These bars are not only delicious but are also surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're craving a comforting breakfast, a picnic treat, or a dessert to share with family and friends, these bars are sure to satisfy.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Total Time 55 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Strawberry Filling:
• 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or honey)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Oatmeal Crust and Crumble:
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but recommended)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Make the Strawberry Filling:

• In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar (or honey), lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer and thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
• Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside to cool while you prepare the crumble base and topping.

2. Prepare the Oatmeal Crust and Crumble:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
• Add the cold butter cubes and, using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
• Stir in the vanilla extract and honey or maple syrup (if using), mixing just until combined. You should have a nice, crumbly dough.

3. Assemble the Bars:

• Take about 2/3 of the crumble mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the base.
• Spoon the cooled strawberry filling over the oatmeal base, spreading it evenly.
• Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the strawberry filling, gently pressing it down to form a nice topping.

4. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
• Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the crumble top — it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

5. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing. The filling will firm up as it cools.
• Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper (if used) and slice into squares or rectangles.

Notes

1. Strawberry Filling Variations:
   Frozen Strawberries: If you're using frozen strawberries, no need to thaw them before cooking. Just chop them and proceed with the filling recipe.
   Sweetener Variations: You can substitute the granulated sugar with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness. Adjust the amount to taste, especially if using alternatives like honey, which are sweeter.
   Other Berries: If strawberries are out of season, this recipe works wonderfully with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. You can also mix several berries together for a delicious twist.
2. Oats and Crust Texture:
   For a Softer Base: If you prefer a softer, less crumbly crust, you can replace up to 1/2 cup of the oats with ground oats (oat flour).
   For a Crunchier Texture: Increase the amount of oats slightly or add chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) into the crumble mixture for added crunch.
   Vegan Option: To make these bars vegan, substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and use maple syrup instead of honey.
3. Serving Ideas:
   These bars make an excellent snack, breakfast, or dessert. Serve them as-is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
   Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a more polished look when serving for guests or special occasions.
   Healthier Twist: For a more health-conscious version, you can try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour. For a gluten-free version, swap in a gluten-free flour blend.