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Strawberry Oat Bars

This recipe features a buttery crumb base dotted with fresh strawberries, baked until golden and caramelized. The bars have a chunky texture with visible bits of fruit and toasted oats, offering a sweet, fruity aroma with a crunchy bite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup rolled oats toasting enhances flavor
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter chilled and cubed
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Baking dish (9x9 inch)
  • Saucepan
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the rolled oats on a baking sheet and toast for about 8 minutes until golden brown, then transfer to a mixing bowl.
  2. In the same bowl, add the all-purpose flour and brown sugar. Cut in the chilled, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
  3. Gently toss sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice in a separate bowl. Set aside to macerate for 10 minutes, allowing juices to develop.
  4. Press half of the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish, creating a compact layer.
  5. Spread the macerated strawberries evenly over the crust, then sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top, covering the fruit completely.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Remove and let cool slightly before cutting into bars.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.