Some desserts blur the line between breakfast and treat in the best way possible. These baked strawberry protein oat squares are exactly that kind of recipe. They’re warm, soft, and familiar, with just enough sweetness to feel indulgent while still fitting naturally into everyday routines.
Oat-based bakes perform exceptionally well because they feel safe and comforting. People know what to expect, which lowers hesitation and increases clicks. What elevates this version is the balance: oats provide structure and heartiness, strawberries add brightness, and protein gives the bake staying power without weighing it down.
From a texture standpoint, these squares are designed to be tender rather than dry. They slice cleanly, hold together well, and reheat beautifully. That practicality keeps readers on the page longer as they imagine how they’d enjoy them — warm from the oven, chilled from the fridge, or packed for later.
This kind of recipe aligns closely with the philosophy behind the Dream Life Cookbook. Desserts don’t need to be dramatic to be satisfying. Sometimes, the most valuable recipes are the ones that feel dependable — the kind you return to week after week.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- Soft, comforting baked texture
- Naturally sweet strawberry flavor
- High-protein and filling
- Sliceable and meal-prep friendly
- Works as dessert or breakfast-style treat
Baked Strawberry Protein Oat Squares (Soft, Cozy & Sliceable)
Description
These baked strawberry protein oat squares are soft, lightly sweet, and comforting. A high-protein vegan oat bake that works as a healthier dessert or breakfast-style treat year-round.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
Fruit Layer
Instructions
Step 1 — Preheat and prepare the pan
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper, pressing it flat along the bottom and sides.
Step 2 — Mix dry ingredients
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In a large bowl, stir together rolled oats, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 3 — Mix wet ingredients
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In a separate bowl, whisk almond milk, maple syrup, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4 — Combine batter
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until the oats are fully coated and the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 5 — Fold in strawberries
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Gently fold chopped strawberries into the oat batter, distributing them evenly throughout.
Step 6 — Transfer to pan
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Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press gently to level the surface.
Step 7 — Bake
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Bake for 33–35 minutes, until the top is set and lightly golden.
Step 8 — Cool and slice
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Allow the bake to cool fully before lifting out and slicing into squares.
Note
These oat squares are designed to be soft and tender rather than dry or crumbly. The strawberries soften as they bake, releasing juice that keeps the interior moist and gently sweet. The protein powder blends seamlessly into the oats without creating heaviness.
