Oatmeal Bars Recipe

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These chewy, crumbly, sweet and fruity Oatmeal Bars are a feel-good treat you’ll reach for again and again. Imagine a buttery oatmeal crust, a thick layer of your favorite jam, and a golden-baked topping that crackles just right under your fork. Whether you’re packing them in a lunchbox or serving them as a mid-day snack, these bars deliver on texture and flavor.

They strike a perfect balance between indulgence and wholesomeness. Made with pantry staples like oats, flour, and brown sugar, and customizable with any jam you love—from raspberry to fig—these bars are a low-fuss, high-satisfaction kind of bake. Great for breakfast, afternoon tea, or even dessert.

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Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Bars Recipe

• Easy and Quick: Minimal prep, one bowl, no fancy tools.
• Versatile: Switch up the jam flavor or add nuts to make it yours.
• Wholesome Texture: Chewy oats with a crisp topping that’s not too sweet.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Stays fresh for days, and freezes well too.
• Kid-Approved: Naturally sweetened with fruit preserves and brown sugar.

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What Kind of Jam Should I Use?

This recipe plays beautifully with nearly any jam or preserve. Raspberry is a classic choice with its balance of tart and sweet, but don’t be afraid to try apricot, blueberry, or even homemade strawberry chia jam for a healthier twist. If your jam is too thick to spread easily, just warm it slightly in the microwave.

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Ingredients for the Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Every ingredient here plays an important role in building flavor and structure.

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: For that hearty chew and crumbly topping.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps bind everything together.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a rich, molasses-like sweetness.
• Baking Soda: Gives a little lift so the base doesn’t feel too dense.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted butter keeps the texture rich and tender.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
• Fruit Jam or Preserves: The juicy centerpiece. Choose your favorite flavor!

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How To Make the Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, stir together oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until crumbly but fully combined.

Step 3: Press and Layer

Press two-thirds of the oat mixture into the bottom of the pan. Spread the jam evenly over the top, leaving a small border so it doesn’t stick to the edges. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top and gently press it down.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing into bars.

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How to Serve and Store These Bars

This recipe yields about 9 generous squares, perfect for a crowd or a week’s worth of snacks.

To Serve: These bars are delicious at room temperature, but even better slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

To Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also refrigerate for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months.

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What to Serve With Oatmeal Bars?

Coffee or Espresso

The deep richness of espresso pairs well with the sweetness of the jam and oats.

Greek Yogurt

For a healthy breakfast combo, serve a square alongside creamy Greek yogurt.

Fresh Berries

Enhance the fruity center with a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries.

Herbal Tea

Chamomile or mint tea complements the warmth of the oats and butter.

Whipped Cream

A dollop turns these bars into a quick dessert.

Hard Cheese

Surprisingly, a slice of aged cheddar plays beautifully with the jammy layer.

Green Smoothie

Balance the sweet treat with a refreshing veggie-packed smoothie.

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Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If these oatmeal bars hit the spot, you’ll love exploring these other irresistible treats:

• Peach Cobbler Crumble Bars when you want something fruitier.
• Knock You Naked Bars for a rich, indulgent layered treat.
• Magic Lemon Cobbler for a zesty twist with a gooey center.
• Easy Apple Crisp Bars when fall flavors call.
• Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins if you love a soft center with a spiced finish.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with raspberry or try something adventurous like fig or blackberry? Add a crumble topping twist?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Got questions? Drop them below—we’re all baking buddies here.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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