🍓😋These buttery bars are bursting with fresh strawberries! Just 10 minutes of prep, so EASY because the crust and crumble are one and the same, and a crowd FAVORITE every time! Perfect for picnics, brunches, or a sweet treat after dinner, Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars deliver flavor and comfort in every bite. Their delightful blend of sweet strawberries and buttery crumble makes them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, these bars fit perfectly into your busy schedule.
• One Mixture for Two Purposes: The same mixture forms both the crust and the crumble topping, making it simple and efficient.
• Fresh Strawberry Flavor: The use of fresh strawberries brings a burst of flavor that complements the buttery oats beautifully.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: These bars are loved by both kids and adults, making them a go-to dessert for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-inch square baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• 8-inch square baking pan: This size is perfect for even cooking and achieving the right thickness for your bars.
• Aluminum foil: Lining your pan with foil makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Allows you to melt butter quickly without needing extra pots or pans.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
– 2 cups coarsely chopped fresh strawberries
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons cornstarch

this recipe

How to Make Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray; this step will help with cleanup later.

Step 2: Melt Butter

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter by heating it on high power for about 1 minute.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the flour, oats, granulated sugars, optional salt, and mix until combined. The mixture should appear dry and sandy but contain some larger pieces.

Step 4: Set Aside Topping

Reserve 1 heaping cup of this mixture to use later as crumble topping.

Step 5: Create the Crust

Transfer the remaining mixture to your prepared pan. Use a spatula or your fingers to press it down firmly and create an even crust layer; set aside.

Step 6: Prepare Strawberry Filling

In another large mixing bowl (you can use the same one), combine chopped strawberries with lemon juice, cornstarch, and additional sugar. Toss gently until well mixed.

Step 7: Layer Strawberries

Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the crust in your pan.

Step 8: Add Topping

Sprinkle the reserved crumble topping over the strawberries. You can squeeze some of it in your palm before sprinkling to form bigger crumbles.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes. Watch closely; edges should be set while center may still be slightly jiggly. If using very juicy strawberries, check after 55 minutes.

Step 10: Cool Before Slicing

Once done baking, place the pan on a wire rack to cool for at least an hour before slicing into bars. If you cut too early, they may fall apart!

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are delightful and versatile, making them a perfect treat for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the fruity bars beautifully.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and flavor.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Top the bars with fresh strawberries or other seasonal fruits to elevate their presentation and freshness.

Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of rich chocolate sauce can add an indulgent touch, appealing to chocolate lovers.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these bars alongside your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack or dessert.

As a Breakfast Treat

• These crumble bars can also double as a hearty breakfast option. Serve them with yogurt for added protein and creaminess.

How to Perfect Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

To ensure your Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries will provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid overripe or mushy ones for optimal results.
• Adjust sweetness: Depending on the ripeness of your strawberries, feel free to adjust the sugar levels in the recipe for a balanced sweetness.
• Pack the crust well: Make sure to hard-pack the crust mixture firmly into the pan. This ensures it holds together well when sliced.
• Let cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing is crucial for clean cuts and preventing them from falling apart.
• Store properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Experiment with spices: Consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble mixture for extra warmth and depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options.

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a refreshing complement to the sweet bars.
2. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and healthy contrast to the richness of the crumble bars.
3. Cheese Platter: Add an assortment of cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which pairs nicely with sweet desserts.
4. Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola on the side; its nuttiness adds texture and a wholesome touch.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia seed pudding makes for an interesting pairing, offering additional health benefits.
6. Pancakes or Waffles: For a brunch gathering, serve these bars alongside fluffy pancakes or waffles drizzled with maple syrup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars can be simple, but a few mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter will not mix well into the dry ingredients, leading to a less crumbly texture. Make sure to melt your butter properly before adding it.
• Overmixing the crumble: Mixing too much can create a tough texture instead of a light and crumbly topping. Mix only until ingredients are combined for the best results.
• Ignoring the cooling time: Slicing the bars too soon can cause them to fall apart. Always allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting.
• Not adjusting for juicy strawberries: If your strawberries are particularly juicy, they may take longer to bake. Keep an eye on your bars as they bake to ensure they set properly.
• Skipping lining the pan: Not lining your pan can make removal difficult and lead to messy bars. Always line with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

• Wrap individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 15-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars?

You can add nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch or swap strawberries for other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mixing them in.

What should I do if my crumble topping is too dry?

If the crumble topping appears too dry, try adding a little more melted butter until you achieve the desired consistency.

How long do Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars last?

When stored properly, these bars will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different fruits or toppings. Their ease of preparation makes them perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!