Strawberry Crumble Bars with Lemon Icing

Enjoy those summer berries sandwiched between a sweet buttery crust and crumb topping!

Hello, friends!

Today I’m sharing a quick and easy dessert that will be perfect for those back yard barbecues and family outings this summer!

Of course, these delicious bars do have oatmeal and strawberries! SO…this breakfast loving gal doesn’t see why you couldn’t grab one and go in the morning too!

And did I mention they are SUPER easy to make?

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 55 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings 18

Ingredients

Crust/Crumb Topping

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 tsp baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract

Filling

4 cups chopped fresh strawberries
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
Zest of one lemon

Lemon Glaze

1 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, mix the dry ingredients for the crust. (A food processor could also be used for this step).
Use a pastry cutter to mix in the butter until the mixture becomes crumbly, with the butter pieces roughly the size of peas.
In a measuring cup, combine the eggs and vanilla. Whisk them together well. Pour this mixture over the crumb mixture.
Using a fork, mix until everything is well blended. Set aside 2 cups of the crust/crumb topping.
Spread the remaining mixture across the bottom of the baking dish.
Press it down evenly. In the meantime, in a medium bowl, mix together the strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon zest.
Pour the mixture over the crust and garnish with the leftover crumble topping.
Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until both the crust and topping achieve a golden brown color.
Combine the lemon glaze ingredients in a small bowl and put it aside.
Once the bars are done baking, let them cool completely before drizzling the lemon glaze on top.
Use the parchment paper ends to lift the bars from the pan and slice them into 18-square pieces.

Nutritional Information of Strawberry Crumble Bars with Lemon Icing

Strawberry Crumble Bars with Lemon Icing are a flavorful dessert, but their nutritional content can vary depending on the ingredients used. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information for a single serving of these bars (assuming an 8×8-inch pan with 12 bars):

Approximate Nutritional Values per Serving (1 bar)

Calories: 200-250 kcal
Protein: 2-3g
Fat: 10-12g
Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Fiber: 2-4g
Sugar: 12-15g
Sodium: 100-150mg

The primary ingredients contributing to the nutrition of these bars are strawberries, oats, and a crumble mixture made from butter, sugar, and flour. The lemon icing adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, which balances the flavors.

Breakdown of Key Ingredients:

Strawberries: Naturally low in calories and rich in vitamin C, strawberries provide antioxidants and fiber.
Oats: A great source of soluble fiber, oats can help lower cholesterol and improve digestion.
Butter: While it adds flavor and richness, butter should be used in moderation due to its high saturated fat content.
Lemon: Packed with vitamin C, lemon provides a fresh, zesty flavor and promotes immune health.

Health Advantages of Strawberry Crumble Bars with Lemon Glaze

Although Strawberry Crumble Bars with Lemon Glaze fall into the dessert category, they provide numerous health advantages when prepared with wholesome, quality components. Here’s how these bars can enhance your overall health:

1. Abundant in Antioxidants

Strawberries are loaded with antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which combats oxidative stress and bolsters the immune system. The antioxidants in strawberries also promote skin health and alleviate inflammation.

2. Fosters Cardiovascular Wellness

Oats are rich in soluble fiber, known to lower cholesterol levels and enhance heart health. When included in a balanced diet, oat-based delights like Strawberry Crumble Bars may assist in fostering healthy blood circulation and cardiac function.

3. High in Dietary Fiber

Both strawberries and oats add fiber to this treat. Fiber is essential for digestive wellness, aiding in regular bowel activity and helping to prevent constipation. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels and enhances feelings of fullness, which can support weight management.

4. Vitamin C Boost

The lemon glaze not only imparts a zesty taste but also delivers an extra dose of vitamin C. Vitamin C is crucial for collagen synthesis, maintaining healthy skin, teeth, and bones. Moreover, it strengthens the immune system and aids iron absorption from plant-based sources.

5. Reduced Refined Sugars

By preparing the crumble bars at home, you have the ability to regulate the sugar quantity used in the recipe. This permits the creation of a healthier version with lesser refined sugar and the option to swap with natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar.

Cooking Suggestions for Ideal Strawberry Crumble Bars with Lemon Glaze

Creating Strawberry Crumble Bars with Lemon Glaze is an uncomplicated task, but a few guidelines can ensure they come out flawlessly every time. Here are some crucial cooking suggestions:

1. Use Fresh or Frozen Strawberries

For the filling, fresh or frozen strawberries can be utilized. If opting for frozen ones, ensure to thaw and eliminate any excess moisture to stop the bars from getting soggy. Fresh strawberries are perfect for a burst of juicy flavor, particularly in strawberry season.

2. Create a Flaky, Crispy Crumble Topping

The crumble topping provides the bars with texture and flavor. Make sure the butter is cold when preparing the crumble mixture, as this aids in achieving a flaky texture. Incorporating oats into the crumble will enhance crunchiness and add a nutritious fiber boost.

3. Utilize Whole-Grain Flour for Added Fiber

For a healthier choice, replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole-wheat flour. Whole grain flour is richer in fiber and nutrients compared to refined varieties, and it makes the bars slightly denser with a nutty taste that complements the sweetness of strawberries.

4. Tailor the Sweetness

The sweetness of the bars can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sugary dessert, decrease the sugar in the crumble topping or opt for a natural sweetener like honey, stevia, or maple syrup. For those with a sweet tooth, feel free to drizzle more glaze on top or sprinkle a bit more sugar in the crumble.

5. Let the Bars Cool Completely

Once baked, allow the bars to cool entirely before slicing into squares. This step allows the crumble topping to firm up and makes it simpler to cut the bars without them crumbling. Cooling also helps to solidify the strawberry filling, creating a more cohesive treat.

6. Glaze Tip

For the lemon glaze, remember to incorporate lemon zest along with the juice for an added flavor kick. If the glaze is too thick, thin it out with a little milk or water until the desired consistency is achieved. Generously drizzle the glaze over the bars once they’ve cooled.

7. Proper Serving and Storage

Serve your Strawberry Crumble Bars with Lemon Glaze at room temperature, or chill them for a few hours for a firmer texture. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.