These healthy strawberry oatmeal bars are the perfect snack or breakfast treat. They’re made with wholesome ingredients like oats, fresh strawberries, and natural sweeteners, creating a soft, fruity bar with a crumbly oat topping. Whether I’m craving something sweet yet nourishing or looking for a make-ahead breakfast, these bars hit the spot every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy these strawberry oatmeal bars are to make, and they don’t require any fancy ingredients. They’re naturally sweetened, loaded with fiber, and can easily be made gluten-free or vegan. They also hold up well, making them great for meal prep. Whether I serve them as a healthy dessert or grab one on the go, they always satisfy my cravings without any guilt.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Rolled oats
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Whole wheat flour or almond flour
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Honey or maple syrup
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Coconut oil or unsalted butter
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Fresh strawberries (or frozen and thawed)
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Vanilla extract
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Lemon juice
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Baking soda
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Salt
Directions
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I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
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In a mixing bowl, I combine the oats, flour, baking soda, and salt.
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I stir in the melted coconut oil and honey (or maple syrup) until a crumbly mixture forms.
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I press about two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the baking dish to form the crust.
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In another bowl, I mix the chopped strawberries, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. If the strawberries are extra juicy, I may toss in a bit of flour or cornstarch to help thicken.
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I spread the strawberry filling evenly over the crust.
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I sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top as a crumble.
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I bake the bars for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly.
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I let the bars cool completely before slicing, which helps them hold together better.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 9–12 bars, depending on how I slice them.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: Around 1 hour and 15 minutes
Variations
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I sometimes swap the strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries.
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For a vegan version, I use maple syrup and coconut oil.
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If I want a gluten-free version, I choose certified gluten-free oats and use almond flour.
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I like to add a pinch of cinnamon to the oat mixture for extra flavor.
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A dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter on top makes a great addition when serving.
Storage/Reheating
I store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, I freeze them for up to 3 months, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When I want to reheat, I warm them slightly in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds or let them thaw at room temperature if frozen.
FAQs
How do I keep the bars from falling apart?
I make sure to let them cool completely before slicing. This allows the filling and crust to firm up properly.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, I thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture, which can make the bars soggy.
Are these bars good for breakfast?
Absolutely. They’re packed with oats and fruit, which makes them a nutritious start to the day.
Can I reduce the sugar content?
Yes, I can cut back slightly on the honey or syrup or use a sugar-free sweetener if preferred.
Do I have to use coconut oil?
No, I’ve also made them with melted butter or avocado oil, and they turn out great.
Conclusion
These healthy strawberry oatmeal bars are one of my favorite make-ahead treats. They’re easy, customizable, and full of fresh flavor. Whether I’m looking for a wholesome breakfast, a lunchbox snack, or a light dessert, these bars always come through.
