Nut-Free Strawberry Snack Bars

Name: Nut-Free Strawberry Snack Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Wellness Kitchen Ideas

I absolutely adore making these Nut-Free Strawberry Snack Bars for a quick and healthy snack! They are simple to whip up and remind me of summer picnics with their vibrant berry flavor. Using oats instead of nuts makes them accessible for everyone, including those with nut allergies. Plus, the addition of fresh strawberries gives these bars a refreshing twist that I can’t resist. Whether I pack them for lunch or enjoy them as a midday treat, they never fail to satisfy my sweet tooth while keeping things wholesome.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-21T20:42:19.111Z

Making these Nut-Free Strawberry Snack Bars became a weekend ritual for me after I discovered how delicious and nutritious they are. One afternoon, I decided to experiment with a base of oats and fruit, and the results exceeded my expectations. The balance of sweetness from the strawberries and the chewiness of the oat mixture is simply delightful. I even love adding a touch of honey for additional sweetness, creating a perfect blend of flavors.

I’ve found that allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing them helps maintain their shape, which is a handy tip if you're looking to create neatly-cut portions. I always keep a batch on hand; they make for a great snack option that my whole family enjoys. Plus, they’re easy to customize with different fruits!

Why You'll Love These Bars
Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor that's both sweet and tart.
Nut-free and allergy-friendly, making them safe for everyone.
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep!

Perfecting the Oat Base

The rolled oats in these Nut-Free Strawberry Snack Bars act as the backbone of the recipe, providing structure and texture. When combined with the wet ingredients, they create a chewy yet satisfying base that holds together beautifully. Be sure to get rolled oats instead of quick oats, as the latter can turn mushy and affect the final consistency of the bars.

Pressing the oat mixture firmly into the baking pan is crucial. I recommend using a flat spatula or the back of a measuring cup to evenly distribute the mixture, which helps the bars remain intact after baking. This ensures that the bars won’t crumble when you cut them into squares later on.

Strawberry Freshness

Fresh strawberries add a vibrant burst of flavor and moisture to these bars. Choose ripe strawberries that are firm to the touch; this gives the final product a balanced sweetness and tartness. If you have overripe strawberries, consider using them in smoothies or other recipes instead, as their mushy texture can impact the structure of your snack bars.

To incorporate the strawberries effectively, chop them into small, uniform pieces. This ensures that every bite is packed with strawberry goodness. If you'd like to experiment, you can substitute fresh strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries, but make sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit used.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Nut-Free Strawberry Snack Bars

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the oats, chopped strawberries, honey, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.

Transfer to Baking Pan

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press it down evenly to ensure it holds together during baking.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, use the parchment overhang to lift them out and cut into squares.

Pro Tips

For a fun variation, try adding different fruits like blueberries or apples, or sprinkle some chia seeds into the mixture for added nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Once your Nut-Free Strawberry Snack Bars are cut, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Alternatively, for longer storage, keep them in the fridge where they can last for a week. If you want to make these bars ahead of time, feel free to bake a batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week.

For even longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Customization Ideas

These bars are incredibly versatile! If you want to add a protein boost, consider mixing in some chia seeds or flaxseeds. Both are excellent sources of healthy fats and protein, enhancing the nutritional profile of your snack. Start with 2 tablespoons, but feel free to adjust based on your preference.

For a touch of decadence, you could fold in some mini dark chocolate chips after mixing the base. This will add a delightful contrast to the tartness of the strawberries. Another idea is to sprinkle some shredded coconut on top before baking, which imparts a subtle sweetness and chewy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but ensure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

→ How should I store the bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a vegan alternative to honey.