Raspberry Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and wholesome treat that combines the sweet-tart flavor of fresh raspberries with a chewy, oat-filled base. These bars are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a light dessert. The crumbly, buttery oatmeal crust and topping provide the perfect balance of texture, while the raspberry filling adds a burst of fruity sweetness. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, these bars come together quickly and are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or packing them for a lunchbox snack, these Raspberry Oatmeal Bars are a delightful, easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)
For the Oatmeal Crust and Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer a thicker filling, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the raspberry mixture. Stir until it thickens, then remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Make the Oatmeal Crust and Topping: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
- Assemble the Bars: Press about two-thirds of the oatmeal mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base. Spread the cooled raspberry filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining oatmeal mixture over the raspberry filling, gently pressing it down.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before slicing into squares.
- Serve: Once cooled, cut into bars and enjoy! These can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
Raspberry Oatmeal Bars are the perfect combination of sweet and tart, with a chewy, buttery base that pairs wonderfully with the bright raspberry filling. They’re simple to make, portable, and delicious, making them a go-to snack for any time of day.
