Strawberry Rhubarb Oat Bars

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Strawberry and rhubarb are a classic combination in these Strawberry Rhubarb Oat Bars. Imagine a buttery oat crust topped with a strawberry rhubarb compote topped with an oat crumble. Not too sweet just the slightest bit tart.

That’s these dessert bars in a nutshell. These strawberry rhubarb oat bars are a follow-up to my strawberry oatmeal bars from the Pioneer Woman or these caramel apple nut bars which are another delicious seasonal treat.

Pin Strawberry Rhubarb Oat Bars to make later.

Uncut strawberry rhubarb oat bars on parchment paper.

Can I substitute quick-cooking oats for old-fashioned oats?

The short answer is yes. The long answer is there will be a difference in texture. Here’s the explanation…both have been flattened with large rollers during processing, but quick-cooking oats are cut into smaller pieces first.

As a result, quick-cooking oats cook faster, and they offer a more delicate texture to baked goods and desserts. For a chewier and heartier texture, use old-fashioned oats.

These Strawberry Rhubarb Oat Bars are:

  • Easy because neither the crust nor filling needs to be precooked.
  • Filled with seasonal rhubarb and sweet strawberries.
  • Simple because you use part of the crust for the topping meaning less of a mess.
  • Perfect for serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream.
  • Transport well if you’re taking them to a potluck party or bringing them into work to share with co-workers.
Three strawberry rhubarb oat bars on a pink platter.

Now depending on how you cut the bars, you’ll either get nine or twelve. To get the nine cut in thirds and the easy way to get 12 is to cut them in half and then cut each half in half. It’s an easy way to make them even.

This cutting method works well for all bars like brownies, cheesecake bars, and more.

A square strawberry rhubarb oat bar being held.

Strawberry Rhubarb Oat Bars

Strawberry and rhubarb are a classic combination in these strawberry rhubarb oat bars. 
4.67 from 3 votes
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Desserts and Sweets
Cuisine: American
Servings: 9 bars

Ingredients

Crust and Topping

  • 1 1/3 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar I used Dixie Crystals
  • 1/2 cup sugar I used Dixie Crystals
  • 1 1/3 cups old-fashioned oats not quick-cooking
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Filling

  • 1 3/4 cups diced strawberries
  • 1 1/2 cup diced rhubarb about 2 stalks (From Melissa’s Produce)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup sugar I used Dixie Crystals
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter a 9" x 9" square baking pan. Cut 2 pieces of parchment paper to fit, with sides overlapping about 2 inches. Place the first piece in pan and butter, then place the second piece covering opposite sides in pan and butter. Using metal binder clips, clip parchment to the pan. Set aside.
  • For the crust/ crumb topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add-in both sugars and oats. Use the whisk to break up any clumps of sugar. Stir to combine.
  • Whisk vanilla and butter together and add to the oat mixture. Stir with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to combine, making sure it’s evenly moistened.
  • Scoop out 1/3 of the crumb mixture and set aside. Press the remaining crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
  • In a small mixing bowl combine sugar and cornstarch.
  • For the filling: Combine strawberries and rhubarb in a mixing bowl and toss with lemon juice.
  • Pour cornstarch mixture over strawberries and rhubarb and toss to coat.
  • Spoon strawberry mixture over crust in the pan in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining crumbs over the top evenly.
  • Bake in preheated oven for 45 – 50 minutes until filling is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  • Cool in the pan on a wire rack until warm. Grabbing the sides of the parchment, remove from pan, and slice while warm or cool completely.

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8 Comments

  1. The rhubarb is just starting to come up! These are so yummy–I can’t wait!

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