Healthy Strawberry Oat Squares with Homemade Jam

Healthy Strawberry Oat Squares: A Vegan Twist on a Classic Treat

As a busy professional, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can be a challenge. But I've discovered that even with a packed schedule, making homemade treats can be both rewarding and surprisingly easy. These vegan strawberry oat squares are a perfect example. They're a healthier take on a childhood favorite, and they're so quick and simple to whip up, even on a weeknight.

My love for strawberry oat bars started when I was a kid. I'd always pack those little strawberry nutri-grain bars in my lunchbox. But let’s be honest, those store-bought options are often loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients. That’s where my recipe comes in. I've managed to capture that same delicious taste without all the unnecessary extras. I've halved the sugar and butter from traditional recipes, and I've made it completely vegan—a win-win for my health and my values.

The best part? The homemade strawberry jam is incredibly simple to make. It’s just strawberries, a touch of sugar, and chia seeds for thickening. No complicated techniques or fancy ingredients required. The chia seeds provide a natural thickening agent and add a subtle boost of nutrients, making this recipe both satisfying and wholesome. I’ve experimented with different berry jams in this recipe – raspberry, blueberry and even peach all add a delightful twist – you really can't go wrong.

The oat base is equally straightforward. Oats, flour (I use a mix of whole wheat and white for a good balance of texture and flavor), a little bit of brown sugar (or Sucanat, a healthier alternative), and a touch of baking soda and salt create a perfectly crumbly and delightful base. A flax or chia egg helps bind everything together, adding moisture and richness without the need for any animal products.

The process itself is quick and easy. Mixing the dry ingredients, combining the wet ingredients (including the amazing homemade jam), pressing the mixture into a pan, baking, and slicing into perfect squares is a rewarding and relaxing experience. It's a wonderful way to unwind after a long day. Plus, knowing that I’m indulging in a healthy and delicious treat makes it even more enjoyable.

I always make a double batch and pop a few in the freezer for those busy mornings or mid-afternoon cravings. They freeze beautifully and stay moist, so you can always have a wholesome treat readily available. Trust me, you'll want to keep these on hand. And the versatility? This recipe easily adapts to seasonal fruits. Pumpkin butter is particularly good in the fall!

These squares are not just for me; they're a treat I can share with friends and family. They're perfect for potlucks, picnics, or simply as a sweet ending to any meal. And the compliments always pour in. It’s a delicious and convenient way to impress loved ones.

So, whether you're a busy professional juggling a million things, or just looking for a healthy and delicious dessert option, these vegan strawberry oat squares are definitely worth trying. They are the perfect balance of convenience, health, and taste. You will not regret trying this simple yet scrumptious recipe. The joy of creating this simple dessert is one I’m delighted to share with you.

Give it a try, and let me know what you think! I'm always excited to hear about your baking adventures and any variations you might create. You can get creative with different types of fruits and jams. Don't be shy; try out various fruit combinations – you might just discover your next favorite combination.

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 350F. Line a square pan (I used a 9x9) with parchment paper and oil the sides of the pan and base.
• In a medium sized pot, add the chopped strawberries and sugar. Heat over low until the strawberries begin to sweat and it gets a bit watery.
• Once it heats down a bit, add in the chia seeds, and stir well. Bring to a boil and then simmer over low to medium heat for at least 10 minutes.
• Once it has thickened a bit, remove from heat and cool for 5-10 mins. You may also add arrowroot powder to thicken it up more if desired, but I didn’t have any.
• In a small bowl, mix the chia or flax egg and set aside.
• In a large bowl, mix the oat base dry ingredients: oats, flour, Sucanat/brown sugar, baking soda, salt.
• In a small bowl, mix the melted earth balance, maple syrup, almond milk, and chia egg. Stir well.
• Add the wet mixture (reserving 1/2 cup of the mixture) to the dry and mix well, using hands if necessary.
• Pour the oat mixture onto the square pan and press down with fingers. Use a pastry roller to smooth out if desired.
• Pour on strawberry mixture and smooth out.
• Now sprinkle on the reserved 1/2 cup oat mixture and sprinkle on.
• Now sprinkle on 1 tbsp of sesame seeds or coconut.
• Bake at 350F for approximately 30 minutes.
• Allow to fully cool for at least 30-40 minutes before gently removing from pan.
• Slice and then store in a container in the fridge to keep firm.