Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

Introduction

Indulge in the delightful taste of Strawberry Oatmeal Bars, a sweet and satisfying treat perfect for any time of day. These bars combine the goodness of oats with a layer of luscious strawberry jam, creating a snack that’s both comforting and delicious.

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple and tasty dessert or snack option, these Strawberry Oatmeal Bars are a wonderful choice. They are easy to make, require basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, and offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Whether you enjoy them as a quick breakfast on the go or as a sweet treat with your afternoon tea, these bars are sure to please.

How to Make Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups flour
• 1 1/4 cups quick cooking oats
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 cup salted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup strawberry jam
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper or spray with non-stick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, sugar, brown sugar, and baking powder. Mix well.
3. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and vanilla, and mix into the flour sugar mixture until the consistency is crumbly. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the oat mixture and set aside.
4. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Gently spread the jam over the crust, being careful not to break the crust as you spread.
6. Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the top of the jam.
7. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
8. Let bars cool completely before preparing the glaze.
9. To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the bars.

How to Serve Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

Serve these bars at room temperature or slightly warmed, paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack or dessert. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a treat for yourself.

How to Store Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Strawberry Oatmeal Bars

• Ensure the oat mixture is crumbly before pressing it into the baking dish for the best texture.
• Be gentle when spreading the jam over the crust to avoid breaking the base layer.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting.

Variation

For a twist on the classic recipe, try using different flavors of jam such as raspberry, blueberry, or apricot to create unique and delicious flavor combinations.

FAQs

1. Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick cooking oats? Yes, you can substitute old-fashioned oats in this recipe, but the texture may be slightly different.
2. Can I use margarine instead of butter? While butter provides the best flavor, you can use margarine as a substitute if needed.
3. Can I omit the glaze? Yes, you can skip the glaze if you prefer a less sweet option or are looking to reduce sugar content.