Oatmeal Bars are a perfect treat for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. These bars are easy to make, combining the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet, tangy flavor of raspberry preserves. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe to create delicious and satisfying oatmeal bars.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 3/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 12-ounce jar raspberry preserves
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Baking Pan:
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Oatmeal Mixture
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add the beaten egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
- Layer Mixture:
- Press two-thirds of the oatmeal mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.
- Add Raspberry Preserves:
- Spread the raspberry preserves evenly over the base layer.
- Top Layer:
- Sprinkle the remaining one-third of the oatmeal mixture evenly over the raspberry layer. Press down lightly to adhere.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set.
- Cool:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
Step 5: Serve
- Cut and Serve:
- Cut the cooled oatmeal bars into squares and serve. Enjoy these delicious bars as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Mix-Ins: Add chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or chocolate chips to the oatmeal mixture for extra texture and flavor.
- Preserves: Feel free to substitute raspberry preserves with your favorite fruit preserves such as strawberry, apricot, or blueberry.
Variations
Nutty Oatmeal Bars
- Add Nuts:
- Stir in ½ cup of chopped nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans into the oatmeal mixture for added crunch.
Coconut Oatmeal Bars
- Add Coconut:
- Add ½ cup of sweetened shredded coconut to the oatmeal mixture for a tropical twist.
Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
- Add Chocolate Chips:
- Stir in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the oatmeal mixture for a delicious chocolatey flavor.
Serving Suggestions
With Ice Cream
- Dessert Delight:
- Serve warm oatmeal bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
With Whipped Cream
- Topped with Cream:
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant presentation.
With Coffee or Tea
- Perfect Pairing:
- Enjoy these bars with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time? A: Yes, oatmeal bars can be made ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftover oatmeal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze these bars? A: Yes, you can freeze oatmeal bars. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats? A: Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture may be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture.
Q: What if I don’t have raspberry preserves? A: You can use any fruit preserves or jam you prefer, such as strawberry, blueberry, or apricot.
Oatmeal Bars with Raspberry Preserves are a delicious and versatile treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their wholesome oats and sweet fruit filling, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful bars with your family and friends!