Name: Strawberry Oat Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup strawberry chia seed jam; 5-7 fresh strawberries cleaned and diced; 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something truly delightful about the warmth of homemade treats, and that’s exactly what you get with these Strawberry Oat Bars. Every bite is a burst of nostalgia, reminding me of sunny afternoons spent baking with family. I remember the first time I made these bars; the aroma of fresh strawberries and oats wafting through the house made it feel like spring was in full bloom. They’re not just bars; they’re a celebration of flavors that dance on your palate. Every layer from the gooey chia jam to the crispy oat topping tells a story, and I can’t wait for you to create your own memories with them.

As the strawberries begin to ripen in the spring, this recipe feels like a perfect way to embrace the season. It’s a treat that’s simple to prepare yet elegant enough to impress. Whether you’re packing them for a picnic, serving them at a brunch, or simply indulging in a sweet moment at home, you’ll find that these bars bring joy and satisfaction in every slice. So grab your ingredients and let’s make some magic in the kitchen with these irresistible Strawberry Oat Bars.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Blender, Frying Pan, Cutting Board, Whisk

Why Try This Strawberry Oat Bars

They Are Wholesome and Nutritious

One of the reasons I absolutely love these Strawberry Oat Bars is that they’re not just delicious but also nutritious. Made with whole wheat pastry flour and rolled oats, they provide a good dose of fiber and energy. Plus, the addition of fresh strawberries and chia seed jam means you’re getting vitamins and antioxidants in every bite.

Simple Preparation

Preparing these bars is a breeze. You don’t need to be a master baker to whip these up. With just a few simple steps, you mix your ingredients, layer them, and let the oven do the magic. This simplicity makes them perfect for baking with kids or for those busy weekdays when you crave something homemade.

Versatile Serving Options

Another thing I adore about Strawberry Oat Bars is their versatility. They can be enjoyed as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert! You can serve them warm or cold, and they pair perfectly with a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful treat.

Great for Meal Prep

These bars are perfect for meal prepping. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and have delicious snacks ready to go. They store well in the fridge or can be frozen for later use, making them a convenient option for busy days.

Customizable Ingredients

You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste. If you prefer a nutty flavor, add some chopped nuts or seeds. Want a different fruit? Feel free to swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries. This recipe is a blank canvas ready for your creative touch.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a birthday party, a picnic, or just a casual snack at home, these Strawberry Oat Bars fit right in. Their bright colors and delightful taste are sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Essential Ingredients for Strawberry Oat Bars

Creating the perfect Strawberry Oat Bars hinges on using quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The combination of whole wheat pastry flour, rolled oats, maple syrup, and coconut oil results in a wholesome and flavorful base. The strawberries add natural sweetness, while the chia seed jam introduces a delightful texture and flavor.

1 cup strawberry chia seed jam – This jam is the heart of the recipe, providing a luscious fruity layer that balances the oaty base beautifully.
5-7 fresh strawberries cleaned and diced – Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and natural sweetness that elevates the entire dish.
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour – This flour gives the bars a light texture while also making them nutritious.
1 cup rolled oats – Rolled oats create a hearty base and contribute to the chewy texture of the bars.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Essential for helping the bars rise slightly, giving them a nice structure.
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon – A warm spice that adds depth and flavor to the bars.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
1 large egg – Binds everything together and helps with the bars’ structure.
1/4 cup maple syrup – A natural sweetener that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the strawberries and oats.
1/4 cup coconut oil – Adds moisture and a subtle coconut flavor, making the bars richer.
1 teaspoon vanilla – A touch of vanilla enhances the overall sweetness and flavor profile.

Instructions for Strawberry Oat Bars

Making these Strawberry Oat Bars is not only easy but also a fun experience. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on crafting these delicious treats. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your bars turn out perfectly!

First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This step is crucial to ensure that your bars bake evenly. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking pan.
Next, line an 8 X 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will help prevent the bars from sticking, making it easier to remove them later.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat pastry flour, rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This mixture is the foundation of your bars, so make sure it’s well combined.
In a separate larger bowl, blend together the egg, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla using an electric hand mixer. This will create a creamy mixture that acts as the wet ingredients for your bars.
Now, combine the wet and dry ingredients together, mixing until a dough is formed. Don’t worry if it feels a bit crumbly; that’s how it should be!
Remove about 1 cup of the dough for topping and set it aside. This will give your bars a lovely crumbly texture on top.
Place the remaining dough on the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use your hands to press it down evenly, forming a solid crust that will hold everything together.
Spoon the strawberry chia seed jam over the dough, spreading it evenly to create a beautiful top layer of fruitiness.
Add the fresh diced strawberries on top of the jam, distributing them evenly for a delightful burst of flavor in each bite.
Now, crumble the reserved dough mixture over the strawberries. This topping will bake to a golden brown, adding a nice crunch to the bars.
Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is a light golden brown. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary slightly.
Once baked, cool the bars in the pan, then remove them and slice them into squares. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Texture Matters: The texture of the dough should be crumbly but hold together when pressed. This ensures your bars have the right consistency.
Oven Variability: Every oven is different, so check your bars a few minutes early to prevent over-baking.
Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for easier slicing and to maintain their shape.
Layering: Don’t skimp on the jam and strawberries; generous layers will enhance the flavor and make the bars more enjoyable.

Helpful Notes about Strawberry Oat Bars

These Strawberry Oat Bars are a family favorite, and with a few helpful notes, you can enjoy them even more. Here are some tips to guarantee the best results every time you bake.

Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be kept at room temperature for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the bars for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
Pairing: These bars are perfect with a side of yogurt or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Customizing Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or add nuts for an extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy these bars for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert during gatherings.

Best Served With

Strawberry Oat Bars

Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and pairs well with the fruity flavors.
Ice Cream: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad complements the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
Afternoon Tea: They make a delightful snack during afternoon tea or coffee breaks.
Picnics: Pack them for a picnic as they travel well and can be enjoyed on the go.
Kids’ Lunch Boxes: These are a perfect addition to kids’ lunch boxes, making them excited for their lunch break.
Seasonal Events: Great for spring gatherings or family events where sweet treats are a must.

FAQ

Absolutely! To make these Strawberry Oat Bars gluten-free, simply substitute the whole wheat pastry flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free as well. This adaptation will still yield a delicious treat without compromising on flavor or texture.

Store your Strawberry Oat Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to a week. They can also be stored at room temperature for a few days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer bag.

Yes, you can definitely use frozen strawberries in your Strawberry Oat Bars. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to avoid excess moisture in the bars. The flavor will still be delightful, and it’s a great way to enjoy this recipe year-round!

There are many fun variations you can try with Strawberry Oat Bars. You can substitute strawberries with other fruits like blueberries or peaches. Adding nuts or seeds can also introduce a nice crunch. Experimenting with different jams or even adding spices like nutmeg can create a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Oat Bars are a delicious and wholesome treat that everyone will love. With their fruity filling and crunchy topping, they make for an excellent snack or dessert. I encourage you to try making them for your next gathering or as a sweet treat for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!