f you’re anything like me; you always need a quick dessert you can throw together without making a huge mess in the kitchen. Between homework, laundry, and everything else going on, I just do not have time for complicated recipes with a mile long ingredient list. That’s exactly why these Strawberry Oat Crumb Bars are one of my all-time favorites.
They use only four simple ingredients, take about 20 minutes from start to finish, and taste like you worked way harder than you actually did. My boys love helping press the crust into the pan, and they definitely love eating them warm from the oven with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Honestly, dessert does not get much easier than this.
Yield: 24 bars
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 18 to 23 minutes
Total Time: About 23 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 box (15 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 2 ½ cups quick cooking oats
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup strawberry preserves
- 1 tablespoon water
Equipment
You will also need a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, parchment paper or cooking spray, one large mixing bowl, and one small bowl.
Step by Step Instructions
First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Line your 9 x 13 baking dish with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray. I love using parchment because it makes lifting the bars out so much easier.
In a large bowl, mix together the yellow cake mix and the quick cooking oats. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Next, pour the melted butter over the oat and cake mix mixture. Stir it all together until it turns crumbly. You want everything coated, but it should still look like loose crumbs.
Press half of this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to really pack it down so it forms a nice crust.
In a small bowl, stir together the strawberry preserves and the tablespoon of water. This just makes it a little easier to spread.
Carefully spread the strawberry mixture over the crust in an even layer. Try to go all the way to the edges so every bite has that sweet strawberry flavor.
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top. Gently press it down just a little so it sticks, but do not pack it down too much. You want that crumbly texture on top.
Bake for 18 to 23 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and the edges look set. Keep an eye on it toward the end so it does not overbake.
Let the bars cool for at least 15 to 20 minutes before cutting. If you cut them too soon, they will be soft and messy. They are amazing served warm, especially with vanilla ice cream melting over the top. So good.
Storage Tips
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw and enjoy.
Fun Flavor Ideas
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to switch up. You can use raspberry, blueberry, peach, or even mixed berry preserves instead of strawberry. It is such an easy way to make it feel like a brand-new dessert without any extra work.
You can also toss in a handful of chopped nuts if you want a little crunch. And if you need gluten free, just use a gluten free yellow cake mix and certified gluten free oats.
These Strawberry Oat Crumb Bars are sweet, simple, and totally family approved. They are the kind of recipe you keep in your back pocket for busy weeknights, last minute guests, or when you just need a little something sweet after dinner. Once you make them, I promise they will become a regular in your kitchen too.
Nutrition Information per Serving
Calories: 172 kcal
Carbohydrates: 27 g
Protein: 1 g
Total Fat: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Cholesterol: 15 mg
Sodium: 196 mg
Potassium: 36 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 15 g
Vitamin A: 285 IU
Vitamin C: 1.2 mg
Calcium: 61 mg
Iron: 1.9 mg
Disclaimer
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.