Introduction

These Berry Oat Bars are a delicious and healthy treat made in just one bowl. Packed with oats and sweetened naturally, they offer a perfect balance of chewy and crumbly textures with a fruity raspberry center. Ideal for snacks or a quick breakfast on the go.

A stack of three crumbly bars placed on a white marbled surface, each bar showing three layers: the bottom layer is a light golden crust with a slightly rough texture, the middle layer is a deep red jam that looks sticky and thick, and the top layer is a golden crumbly topping with pieces of oats or nuts, giving a crunchy appearance. The bars are stacked unevenly, and small crumbs are scattered around them. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup coconut oil, melted
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour or gluten free substitute
1 ½ cups quick oats
⅓ cup maple syrup
⅓ cup coconut sugar or granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup raspberry preserves

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray an 8×8-inch baking pan with non-stick spray and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the coconut oil, flour, oats, maple syrup, coconut sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined, excluding the raspberry preserves.
Step 3: Using your hands, press about two-thirds of the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, flattening it into an even layer.
Step 4: Gently spread the raspberry preserves over the crust, leaving a half-inch border around the edges to prevent scalding during baking.
Step 5: Crumble the remaining third of the oat mixture evenly over the preserves. Lightly press the crumbles to help them stay in place when baked.
Step 6: Bake on the center rack for 25 to 30 minutes, until the topping is lightly browned.
Step 7: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

For a tangier flavor, try swapping raspberry preserves for blueberry or strawberry jam.
To make these bars vegan, ensure your preserves contain no gelatin and use a plant-based sugar alternative.
Add a handful of chopped nuts or seeds to the oat mixture for extra crunch and nutrition.
If you prefer a chewier texture, reduce the baking time by a few minutes, keeping an eye on browning.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy after chilling, let them come to room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a neat stack of eight crumbly oat bars, each cut into a square shape. The bars have three visible layers: the bottom and top layers are golden-brown, crumbly, and rough with a coarse oat texture, while the middle layer is a thin spread of dark red jam, slightly peeking out between the oat layers. The bars are arranged with some stacked horizontally and others placed at slight angles, showing the jam layer clearly. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with a simple beige cloth in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of preserves for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute raspberry preserves with any other fruit preserves or jam you prefer, such as strawberry, blueberry, or apricot. Just be sure to leave the edge clear to prevent scalding.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to keep the bars safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.