Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Squares

Name: Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 large egg; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and diced; 1/4 cup melted coconut oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Home Baking Recipes

When I first decided to make Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Squares, I wanted a breakfast option that was both nourishing and delicious. The aroma of fresh strawberries and oats baking in the oven was simply irresistible, and as they cooked, I realized that this could easily become my new morning staple. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite delightful, and being able to prepare them ahead of time makes busy mornings so much easier. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a favorite in your household!

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-02-14T23:15:37.021Z

As I mixed the oats, milk, and sweet strawberries together, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. This dish reminded me of summer mornings spent berry-picking with friends, and I was excited to recreate that experience in my kitchen. Using rolled oats not only provides great texture but also gives a substantial dose of heartiness that feels satisfying but not heavy.

After baking, I decided to sprinkle a little brown sugar on top for an added crunch and caramel note, which truly elevated the flavor. This flexibility in the recipe means you can adjust the sweetness to your liking, making it a versatile option for any breakfast table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy strawberries provide a refreshing burst of flavor.
Hearty oats create a satisfying and filling breakfast option.
Quick prep time makes these squares perfect for busy mornings.

The Role of Oats

Oats are the star ingredient in Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Squares. They provide a hearty base that not only adds fiber but also promotes a feeling of fullness, making this dish a perfect breakfast choice. Using rolled oats is ideal because they cook evenly while maintaining a chewy texture, essential for the squares to hold their shape. If you prefer a gluten-free option, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

The soaking aspect is also critical; oats absorb the liquid from the milk and eggs, resulting in a creamy texture that complements the juicy strawberries. To achieve this, I recommend letting the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes after mixing, allowing the oats to soften before baking.

Choosing the Right Strawberries

When it comes to strawberries, freshness is key. Look for berries that are deep red, firm, and free from blemishes or mold. If you can’t find fresh strawberries, frozen berries can be a convenient substitute. Just ensure they are hulled and diced before adding to your mixture, and consider reducing the milk slightly since frozen strawberries release extra moisture when thawed.

Another tip is to use a combination of strawberries and other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry twist. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a beautiful color contrast. Adjust the sweetness based on the type of berries you choose—if using tart berries, you might want to increase the brown sugar a tad to balance the flavors.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Squares are great for meal prep! After they cool, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. These squares can also be frozen; simply wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, microwave them for about 30-60 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven until heated through.

For serving, I love pairing these squares with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup for added richness. You could also sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for a crunchy texture. They make for a delightful brunch addition, too, served alongside fresh fruit or a light salad.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients for Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Squares

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 large egg
1 cup strawberries, hulled and diced
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix well before transferring to the baking dish.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your oatmeal squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the milk, brown sugar, egg, melted coconut oil, and vanilla until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Gently fold in the diced strawberries.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until set and golden on top.

Cool and Serve

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For an added twist, use blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries. You can also drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the squares for extra sweetness before serving.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your squares turn out too dry, it might be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time; they should be set but still slightly soft in the center. If they appear golden on top but still wobbly, they likely need a few more minutes in the oven. Conversely, if your squares feel overly gooey, they may need a few extra oats to absorb moisture next time.

Another common issue is uneven cooking. Ensure that your baking dish is greased thoroughly to prevent sticking and that you’re using the correct size (9x9 inches) for even heat distribution. If you notice that one side is browning faster than the other, consider rotating the dish halfway through baking.

Scaling the Recipe

One of the great things about Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Squares is that you can easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs. To double the recipe, simply use a 9x13-inch baking dish and increase your baking time by about 10 minutes, checking for doneness. Keep in mind that baking in a larger dish might require more even spreading to ensure it sets evenly.

If you're making a smaller batch, you can cut the original recipe in half and use a smaller baking dish or even muffin tins for individual servings. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, starting with about 20 minutes, checking periodically to see if they're set and slightly golden.

Flavor Variations

To elevate the flavor of your Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Squares, consider incorporating spices or extracts. For a warm, spicy kick, add a dash of nutmeg or even ginger. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or maple, to change up the flavor without altering the texture.

In addition to different fruits, I’ve found that adding a handful of chopped nuts—such as walnuts or pecans—can add both crunch and nutritional value. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, consider folding in some dark chocolate chips or shredded coconut for a twist that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these oatmeal squares ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance and store them in the fridge.

→ Can I freeze Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Squares?

Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them individually and store in an airtight container.

→ How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I substitute the egg?

Yes, you can use a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce as an egg replacement.