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Strawberry and Cocoa Oat Squares

These strawberry and cocoa oat squares are a wholesome homemade alternative to shop-bought cereal bars. Naturally sweetened with bananas and a quick strawberry jam, they're made without added sugar, oil or dairy, and they can easily be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats. The oats provide fibre to help keep you feeling satisfied, while the cocoa gives the squares a rich chocolate flavour without making them overly sweet. The homemade strawberry jam adds moisture and fruity sweetness, creating soft, satisfying bars that are ideal for breakfast, a mid-morning coffee break or afternoon tea. They're also easy to pack for lunch boxes, picnics and days out. The strawberry jam takes only a few minutes to make and can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge until you're ready to bake.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 4 hours
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Cuisine: British
Calories: 1234
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • or the instant strawberry jam:
  • 1 cup strawberries chopped
  • 2 Tbsp date syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • For the oat squares:
  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 3 Tbsp ground almonds optional
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 Tbsp cocoa powder
  • About 3 Tbsp of the instant strawberry jam

Method
 

  1. To make the jam, place the strawberries, date syrup and vanilla extract in a small saucepan. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened to a soft, spreadable consistency. It doesn't need to set like traditional jam. Leave to cool.
  2. Preheat the oven or air fryer to 180°C. Line a small square baking tin with baking parchment or prepare a silicone baking mould.
  3. Mash the bananas until smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Add the oats, ground almonds (if using) and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined.
  5. Fold about 3 Tbsps of the cooled strawberry jam into the mixture. Leave to rest for 5–10 minutes so the oats can absorb some of the moisture.
  6. Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin or mould and spread it out evenly.
  7. Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly set and firm to the touch.
  8. Alternatively, bake in the air fryer for 15–18 minutes.
  9. Leave to cool in the tin before transferring to a wire rack.
  10. Once completely cool, cut into squares and serve.