Strawberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Skip the preserves and use fresh strawberries to create Chef John's lighter, wholesome baked oatmeal bars.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Calories: 299 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 pound fresh strawberries
• 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
• 0.5 lemon, juiced
• 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger
• 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.5 cup whole wheat flour
• 0.5 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1.5 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Butter a 9x12-inch baking dish.

Step 2

Remove the green tops from strawberries using the tip of small, sharp knife or strawberry huller. Place the berries cut-side down on a work surface and cut in half. Slice each half lengthwise 3 to 5 times before turning and cutting across in a nice, uniform dice.

Step 3

Combine diced strawberries, lemon juice, sugar, and cornstarch in a mixing bowl and stir until thoroughly combined and the cornstarch disappears. Set aside until needed.

Step 4

Combine oats, all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, salt, and ginger in a mixing bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir thoroughly until dry ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 5

Transfer 60% of the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread out into an even layer. Press the mixture down with the back of a spoon or spatula to compress slightly.

Step 6

Place strawberries over the top using a slotted spoon. Do not press down. Reserve any accumulated juices in the bowl. Top with remaining oatmeal mixture and press down lightly with the back of a spoon or spatula. Drizzle reserved juices on top.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown, about 45 minutes. Press the top down with a spatula to compress slightly. Let cool completely, about 1 hour. Cut into bars and serve.