Imagine biting into a dessert that combines the sweet, tangy burst of fresh strawberries with the comforting warmth of cinnamon-spiced oats. These Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are not just a treat; they're a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a mind-blowing dessert that will have everyone begging for your recipe. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these bars promise to be your new go-to dessert that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups diced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Pour melted butter into the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and begins to hold together when pressed.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even base layer.
- In a separate bowl, gently mix diced strawberries with lemon juice and honey, ensuring the strawberries are evenly coated.
- Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the oat base, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the strawberry layer, creating a crumbly topping that covers most of the fruit.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to set.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 12 even squares.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warm. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the most vibrant flavor. If strawberries aren't in season, frozen berries work well too, just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid.
- For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the crumble topping.
- Make sure to press the bottom crust firmly and evenly to create a solid base that holds together well.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they set properly and slice cleanly.
- For a more indulgent version, drizzle a simple vanilla glaze or dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings or meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
