Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Strawberry Layer
01 -
3 cups fresh strawberries, diced (frozen works too - just thaw and drain excess liquid)
02 -
1/4 cup maple syrup
03 -
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
04 -
1-2 tablespoons lemon zest
05 -
Pinch of sea salt
06 -
2 tablespoons tapioca starch
→ Oatmeal Layers
07 -
1 1/2 cups rolled oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)
08 -
1 1/2 cups almond flour
09 -
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
10 -
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
11 -
1/2 cup maple syrup
12 -
1/3 cup coconut oil, solid at room temperature
13 -
1 teaspoon lemon juice
# Instructions:
01 -
Toss your diced strawberries into a small pot over medium heat along with the maple syrup, lemon juice, zest, and a pinch of sea salt. Let everything bubble and simmer for about 5-10 minutes until the strawberries break down and release their juices. Stir in the tapioca starch and let it work its magic for another minute as the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside while you tackle the oatmeal mixture.
02 -
Get your oven warming up to 375°F and line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides for easy bar removal later.
03 -
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking soda, and sea salt with a quick stir. Pour in the maple syrup, add the solid coconut oil, and squeeze in that teaspoon of lemon juice. Now get your hands dirty (or use the back of a sturdy spoon) to mix everything until it comes together in a crumbly but moldable mixture.
04 -
Set aside about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of your oatmeal mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into your lined baking dish to create an even bottom crust. Pour your gorgeous strawberry filling on top and spread it into a smooth layer. Finally, crumble that reserved oatmeal mixture over the strawberry layer with your fingertips, creating a rustic, crumbly topping.
05 -
Slide your creation into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until you notice the edges turning a lovely golden color. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
06 -
This is the hardest part! Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out the parchment and cutting into squares. Patience will reward you with perfect bars that hold together beautifully.
# Notes:
01 -
These strawberry oatmeal bars are naturally sweetened with maple syrup and make a perfect breakfast on-the-go or healthy dessert.
02 -
The bars will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
03 -
You can substitute other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.