Srawberry Crumble Oat Bars
These strawberry crumble oat bars are a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for sharing at holiday parties or get-togethers. With a sweet strawberry filling and a crunchy oat topping, they’ll disappear fast.
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Summer desserts are always a fave. If you like a good crumble recipe check out this yummy Healthy Peach Crisp and this delectable Rhubarb Crumble.
Why we love this recipe
- These yummy bars have both taste and texture. From the sweet strawberry filling to the crispy, crumbly topping, this treat has it all.
- They are versatile and can be enjoyed in different settings from a backyard BBQ or cookout to more formal occasions.
- It is summer! These bars have massive seasonal appeal with fresh strawberries bursting out all over the markets. You can also try this Strawberry Smoothie with the bounty of berries. We love drinking it all summer long.
- We also love that this recipe is naturally vegan. Another perk!
Ingredients
Strawberry Filling:
- strawberries – fresh summer berries are preferred when in season. You can also use frozen strawberries, no need to thaw them first.
- water
- vanilla – adds a sweet and creamy element to the recipe.
- maple syrup – you can also use honey.
Oat Crust/Crumble:
- spelt flour – while it does contain gluten as it is wheat, spelt flour is digested easier than regular wheat flour. It also has more protein – bonus! Substitute a gluten-free all purpose flour for any allergies or intolerances.
- oats – old-fashioned rolled oats are ideal for crumble bars as the flakes will hold their shape and give the crumble topping a really nice texture.
- coconut sugar – a favorite natural sweetener and a great substitute for brown sugar or white sugar but with a lower glycemic index.
- baking soda
- salt – use a pinch of fine sea salt to bring out all the flavors of your ingredients.
- coconut oil – we use this in many recipes and drawing from our experience we find it works amazingly in baked goods. It is great for a dairy-free option. You can also use butter for non vegan.
Equipment
- small saucepan – for making the strawberry filling.
- mixing bowl
- baking dish – use a 9×13 baking pan for the recipe.
- parchment paper – a must for easy cleanup.
Instructions
Step 1
Start by heating the oven to 350 and lining the baking pan with parchment paper. Set the pan aside.
Step 2
Next, in a small saucepan add the filling ingredients and bring them to a boil over medium heat.
Step 3
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the strawberry mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring and breaking up the berries with the back of the spoon.
Once the filling has thickened to the texture of a thin strawberry jam, remove it from the heat and set aside.
Step 4
Then, in a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients.
Once they are combined, pour in the coconut oil and stir well.
Step 5
Next, in the parchment-lined dish, press in just over half of the oat and flour mixture to make a nice even crust in the bottom.
Press it in really well.
Step 6
Then, grab the pan with the strawberry mixture and pour it over the base.
We find using a small spatula the best tool for this job. Nothing gets left behind!
Spread the berry mixture evenly over the bottom crust layer.
Step 7
Finally, sprinkle the remaining oat crumble mixture over top of the strawberry layer.
Step 8
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cool completely before slicing.
Expert tips
The key to a sturdy crust is to press the mixture really well into the bottom of the baking dish. You can use either a flat spatula or the bottom of a mixing cup to firmly press it in.
Allowing them to cool completely is very important. When first out of the oven they are still delicate. Letting them cool helps them firm and set properly, making it easier to cut and serve the bars without them falling apart.
Recipe variations
- Add a zesty touch to your strawberry crumble bars by incorporating lemon zest or lemon juice into the strawberry filling. The citrusy flavor pairs well with the sweet strawberries and adds a refreshing element.
- Add warmth and depth to your bars by incorporating spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom into the crumble topping or strawberry filling. The spices complement the sweetness of the strawberries and add an extra layer of flavor.
- For a tropical twist, sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the crumble mixture before baking. The coconut adds a subtle nuttiness and extra texture to the bars.
- If you’re a chocolate lover, add chocolate chips or chunks to the crumble topping. Chocolate and strawberries create a delicious flavor profile.
Serving suggestions
- Take your strawberry crumble bars to the next level by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a spoonful of custard.
- Serve them alongside other pastries, scones, or finger sandwiches for brunch or high tea.
- Drizzle a sweet sauce over the strawberry crumble bars for added flavor and visual appeal. Caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or strawberry sauce are all excellent choices.
FAQS
You can definitely experiment with other fruits. Raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, or a combination of berries are all delicious ideas.
Yes, you can modify the sweetness by tweaking the amount of coconut sugar and/or maple syrup used in the filling and crumb topping. You can decrease or increase the sweeteners according to your taste preferences.
Storage and freezing
After they have cooled completely, you can store strawberry crumble bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them for up to 5-7 days. For the best texture, let them come to room temperature before enjoying them.
To freeze any leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before serving.
More healthy strawberry recipes
**This recipe was originally posted on March 19, 2014, updated on August 29, 2019, and updated again on June 2, 2023.**
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Strawberry Crumble Bars
Ingredients
Strawberry Filling
- 2 cups chopped strawberries
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
Crust/Crumble
- 1 ½ cups spelt flour
- 1 ½ cups oats
- ½ cup coconut sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ⅔ cup coconut oil, melted but not hot
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350 and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Next, in a small saucepan add the filling ingredients and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring and breaking up the berries with the back of the spoon. Once the filling has thickened, remove it from the heat and set aside.
- Then, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients – flour, oats, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt. Once they are combined, stir in the coconut oil and stir again to incorporate it.
- Next, press in just over half of the crust mixture into the lined baking dish. Pressit in well to make a nice even base for your bars.
- Then, pour in the strawberry filling over the base and spread it out evenly.
- Finish by sprinkling the remaining crumble mixture over top of the strawberry layer.
- Bake for 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- Cool completely in the pan before removing and slicing. About 1 hour.
