Strawberry Crumble Bars with Buttery Oat Crust

Strawberry Crumb Bars capture summer in a dessert: fresh strawberries nestled between a buttery crumb crust and a crisp topping.

strawberry crumb bars

STRAWBERRY CRUMB BARS

These strawberry crumb bars are similar to classic peach crumb bars, but use ripe strawberries for a bright, summery flavor. The combination of buttery crumb and juicy berries makes an easy dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple family treat.

WHAT KIND OF STRAWBERRIES TO USE:

FRESH STRAWBERRIES – Fresh berries are preferred for the best texture and flavor.

FROZEN – Frozen strawberries can work in a pinch, but they release more liquid and may make the filling wetter.

strawberry crumb bars

HOW TO MAKE STRAWBERRY CRUMB BARS

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.crumb mixture
  2. FOR THE CRUST: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Stir in the egg and vanilla until combined. (If using a food processor, pulse the dry ingredients with the butter until crumbly, then add the egg and vanilla and process until the dough comes together.)
  3. Press half of the crumb mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the base. Reserve the remaining crumb mixture for the topping.strawberries
  4. FOR THE STRAWBERRIES: Place chopped strawberries in a bowl and toss with the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Sprinkle with sugar and cornstarch, then toss again to coat evenly. The cornstarch helps thicken the filling as it bakes.strawberries
  5. Spoon the prepared strawberries over the bottom crust, draining off any excess liquid before adding them. Evenly sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the strawberries to create the topping.crumb topping
  6. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden and the filling is bubbling. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. Store in the refrigerator; they are best served nearer to room temperature for the most pleasant texture.strawberry crumb bars

OTHER FRUIT RECIPES

  • Easy Fruit Dip
  • Poppy Seed Fruit Salad
  • Grape Walnut Salad
  • Peach Cobbler Recipe
  • Fruit, Avocado, and Feta Salad
  • Fruit Pizza
  • Snickers Apple Salad
  • Apple Crisp Pizza
  • Apple Crisp
  • Peach Crisp
  • No-Churn Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
  • Watermelon Blueberry Feta Salad
  • Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
strawberry crumb bars

Strawberry Crumb Bars

Christy Denney

Strawberry Crumb Bars are summer in a dessert. Fresh strawberries sandwiched in between a buttery crumb base.
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Servings:
9 bars

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

STRAWBERRIES:

  • 2 cups strawberries, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F and prepare an 8×8-inch pan with grease or parchment.
  • Make the crust by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly, then mix in the egg and vanilla until combined.
  • Press half the dough into the pan; reserve the rest for the topping.
  • Toss chopped strawberries with lemon juice, vanilla, sugar, and cornstarch until well coated.
  • Spread strawberries over the crust (drain excess liquid) and sprinkle the reserved crumbs on top.
  • Bake 35–45 minutes until the top is lightly browned. Cool completely, then cut into bars. Store refrigerated and serve closer to room temperature for best texture.
Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert
Author: Christy Denney
strawberry crumb bars