Description
These Healthy Strawberry Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome and delicious treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Made with whole wheat flour, rolled oats, fresh strawberries, and natural sweeteners, they offer a nutritious balance of fiber and protein. The bars are easy to make, baked until golden, and can be customized for vegan diets, making them an ultimate healthy snack option.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Filling
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon, ensuring they are well distributed.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, honey, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully blended.
- Make the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Set aside about three-quarters of a cup of this oat mixture for the topping later.
- Form the Crust: Press the remaining oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a firm base layer.
- Prepare Strawberry Filling: In a small bowl, gently toss the diced strawberries with cornstarch and lemon juice to thicken the filling and add brightness.
- Assemble Layers: Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the oat crust layer in the pan.
- Add Topping: Crumble the reserved oat mixture over the top of the strawberries, distributing it evenly to cover the filling.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to set before slicing into 9 squares. This cooling ensures clean cuts and better texture.
Notes
- For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Frozen strawberries can be used but must be fully thawed and well-drained to prevent soggy bars.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
