These toddler-friendly strawberry oat bars are quick and easy to make, all in one bowl with minimal preparation. I’m often asked for toddler snack ideas, so I love creating simple recipes that parents can make ahead and keep on hand for busy days. Snack bars are often a popular choice with little ones, and these soft strawberry bars are a great homemade option.
Made with oats, ripe bananas and fresh strawberries, they’re soft, easy to hold and well suited to little hands. Packed with fruit and wholegrain oats, this simple bake provides fibre and natural sweetness without the need for added sugar. Delicious on their own, they can also be served with vegetable sticks and yoghurt or a plant-based alternative to create a more balanced snack.
They can be prepared in advance and stored for the week, making them a practical alternative to many shop-bought toddler snack bars.
Ingredients
- 170g oats
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 3 medium-sized ripe bananas
- 2 tbsp nut or seed butter
- 2 handfuls strawberries, chopped (or you can use other berries such as raspberries or blueberries)
- 45g Greek yogurt or plant-based alternative
- A splash of milk or plant-based alternative
Method
- Preheat the oven to 180°C fan. Line or lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl or directly in the baking dish, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the oats, nut or seed butter, Greek yogurt or plant-based alternative, milk or plant-based alternative and ground flaxseed. Mix well until combined.
- Fold through the chopped strawberries.
- Spread evenly in the baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until set and lightly golden.
Allow to cool slightly before cutting into toddler-friendly pieces and serving.
Storage and freezing
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. These bars also freeze well. Once cooled, cut into portions and freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Looking for more oat-based toddler snacks?
If your little one enjoys these toddler-friendly strawberry oat bars, try my blueberry baked oats and my baked banana bars.