Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Start your day with a wholesome, naturally sweet treat that combines the heartiness of oats with the fresh burst of strawberries. These Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are an ideal on-the-go breakfast or snack, packed with nutrients and flavor. With simple ingredients like rolled oats, almond milk, and fresh strawberries, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for busy mornings. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought bars, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There are countless breakfast bar recipes out there, but what sets these Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars apart is their balance of texture, flavor, and nutrition. The combination of rolled oats and almond flour provides a satisfying chewiness, while the fresh strawberries add a natural sweetness and a pop of color. Honey or maple syrup gently sweetens the bars without overpowering the other flavors. Plus, using coconut oil gives them a subtle richness and helps bind everything together.

These bars are naturally gluten-free when you choose gluten-free oats, and they’re dairy-free as well, making them suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. They’re perfect for those mornings when you want something filling yet light, and they pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. If you enjoy recipes like these, you might also love trying some Breakfast Egg Muffins for a protein-packed start to your day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

How To Make Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out once baked. Lightly grease the parchment paper with a bit of coconut oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the baking powder and salt throughout the oats and flour.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Make sure the coconut oil is not too hot to avoid cooking the eggs or altering the wet mixture texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the mixture is just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bars dense.

Step 5: Fold in the Strawberries

Carefully fold in the chopped fresh strawberries, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the batter without breaking them up too much.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly using the back of a spoon or spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into 9 or 12 bars depending on your desired size.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using overripe strawberries that become too mushy during baking. Choose fresh, firm berries for the best texture.
• Overmixing the batter, which can cause the bars to be tough instead of tender and chewy.
• Not fully cooling the bars before cutting, which may lead to crumbling or falling apart.
• Using too much liquid or too little baking powder, which affects the texture and rise of the bars.
• Skipping the parchment paper lining, making it difficult to remove the bars without breaking.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the strawberries for other fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a different fruity twist.
• Add a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and protein.
• Stir in some chia seeds or flaxseeds to boost fiber and omega-3 content.
• Mix in a few dark chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence without overpowering the natural sweetness.
• For a citrusy note, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter before baking.

How to Store Leftovers

Store your Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for about one week. You can also freeze the bars by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for a cozy breakfast treat.

FAQ

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before folding them into the batter. This prevents the bars from becoming too soggy.

Are these bars vegan-friendly?

To make these bars vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your almond milk and other ingredients are plant-based. This recipe easily adapts to vegan preferences without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I substitute almond flour with another type of flour?

You can replace almond flour with oat flour or whole wheat flour, but note that it may change the texture slightly. Almond flour adds moisture and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the oats and strawberries well.

What’s the best way to reheat these bars?

To reheat, microwave a bar for about 20-30 seconds or warm it in a toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through. Warming enhances the flavors and softens the bars for a freshly baked feel.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are a delightful way to start your morning or fuel your afternoon. With wholesome ingredients and a naturally sweet flavor, they’re a healthier alternative to many store-bought options. Their simplicity and versatility make them easy to customize to your taste and dietary needs. Plus, they’re perfect for busy schedules when you need a quick, nourishing bite. Once you try them, they’ll become your go-to recipe for nutritious breakfasts and snacks that keep you energized throughout the day.

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