Name: Mango Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ¾ cup old-fashioned whole-rolled oats (do not use quick cook or instant); ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed; ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste; 2 cups coarsely chopped fresh ripe mango (Ataúlfo mango preferred, frozen mango thawed and drained can be used); ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons corn starch

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 5 reviews

If you’re looking for a treat that’s bursting with tropical sunshine and easy to whip up, let me introduce you to the Mango Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe. These bars combine a golden, buttery crust with chewy oats and a luscious mango filling that’s perfectly sweet and a touch tangy. The best part? The crust doubles as the crumble topping, making the prep super simple yet incredibly satisfying. It’s an absolute family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again because every bite tastes like a little celebration of fresh, fruity goodness wrapped in crumbly comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with a bright orange, soft, mashed mixture that looks smooth but with small chunks, spread evenly inside the bowl. A silver fork lies in the center on top of the mash, its handle extending outward towards the bottom edge of the image. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple ingredients come together in this recipe to create layers of flavor and texture. Each one plays a key role, from the buttery richness of the crust to the fresh mango’s juicy sweetness and the hearty chew of rolled oats. You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of pantry staples and fresh fruit can turn into something so delightful.

Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Adds rich moisture and helps bind the crust and crumble together for that perfect buttery texture.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides structure to the crust and the crumble topping, ensuring a firm base.
Old-fashioned whole-rolled oats (¾ cup): Use only whole-rolled oats for chewy texture; quick or instant oats will dry out the mixture.
Granulated sugar (½ + ⅓ cup): Both crust and mango filling get their sweetness from this, balancing tartness with smooth caramel notes when baked.
Light brown sugar (¼ cup, packed): Brings a subtle molasses flavor and adds tenderness to the crust.
Salt (½ teaspoon, or to taste): Enhances all the flavors, making the sweetness pop just right.
Fresh ripe mango (2 cups, coarsely chopped): The star ingredient; fresh Ataúlfo mangoes work best for their silky texture and vibrant sweetness.
Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Adds brightness and balances the mango’s sweetness in the filling.
Corn starch (2 teaspoons): Thickens the mango layer so it sets perfectly without being runny.

How to Make Mango Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8-inch square pan with aluminum foil. Spraying it lightly with cooking spray will make cleanup easier and ensure your bars come out smoothly without sticking. This foundation step sets you up for hassle-free baking.

Step 2: Make the Crust and Crumble Mixture

Melt the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl for about a minute until fully liquid. Then add the flour, whole-rolled oats, granulated and brown sugars, plus salt if using, stirring everything together. The mixture should feel dry and sandy but have some larger crumble pieces mixed in. Reserve a heaping cup of this mixture to use as your crumble topping—this is what makes these bars extra special and textured.

Step 3: Form the Crust

Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan using your fingers or a spatula, packing it down evenly and smoothly. This forms the sturdy base that holds your mango filling and the crumble topping.

Step 4: Prepare the Mango Filling

In the same bowl you used for the crust, toss together the chopped mango, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. It’s okay if the sugar doesn’t dissolve fully here—once baked, it will melt into a luscious layer that’s just the right consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Evenly spread the mango filling over the crust, then sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture on top. To encourage bigger crumble pieces for that perfect texture, squeeze small handfuls of the crumble in your palm before sprinkling it over the mango layer.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set

Bake for about 50 minutes, watching closely towards the end. The crumble topping should turn a very pale golden color and feel set to the touch, while the mango layer might bubble gently along the edges. Depending on how juicy your mangoes are, baking time could be a little longer. Keep your eyes on the bars rather than the clock to catch them at their best.

Step 7: Cool Completely Before Slicing

Once out of the oven, transfer your pan to a wire rack and let the bars cool completely for at least one hour. This step is crucial because cutting the bars while warm will cause them to fall apart. Patience here means clean slices and a neat presentation!

How to Serve Mango Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a single rectangular bar with three visible layers. The bottom layer is a dense, crumbly crust with a light golden-brown color and a rough texture. The middle layer is a smooth, bright orange filling that looks soft and slightly translucent. The top layer consists of large, uneven crumb clusters that are golden with hints of light brown, giving a textured and crunchy appearance. The bar sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can elevate these bars visually and add a little extra sweetness. For a fresh touch, sprinkle thin mint leaves or delicate edible flowers on top before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness that makes them even more inviting.

Side Dishes

These bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, particularly if you’re serving them as a dessert. For breakfast or brunch, add a cup of your favorite hot tea or freshly brewed coffee to complement the warm spices and fruity brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Cut the bars into small bite-sized squares and serve them on a platter with tropical fruit slices like pineapple or papaya. Alternatively, sandwiched with a light cream cheese frosting, these crumble bars transform into elegant little treats perfect for parties or afternoon tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After baking and cooling, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration will keep them fresh for up to 10 days. This flexibility means you can make them ahead for gatherings or enjoy throughout the week.

Freezing

Want to savor these bars later? Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to six months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving, and they’ll taste almost as fresh as the day you baked them.

Reheating

If you prefer your bars warm, pop them into a preheated 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes. This gently heats the mango layer without drying out the crumble topping. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that perfect crunch and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen mango for fresh as long as it’s fully thawed and any excess liquid is drained. Frozen mango can be a convenient option, especially when fresh mango is out of season.

What type of oats should I use?

Always choose old-fashioned whole-rolled oats. Quick or instant oats are too fine and can make the crust and crumble overly dry. The texture difference is noticeable and important for the right crumble consistency.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make these bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Also, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

How ripe should the mango be?

The mango should be ripe and juicy but still firm enough to hold its shape once chopped. Ataúlfo mangoes are a great choice because they are sweet and creamy while still holding well in baked dishes.

What is the best way to cut the bars?

Wait until the bars have completely cooled, preferably chilled slightly for firmer slicing. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices that hold together nicely.

Final Thoughts

The Mango Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe is one of those rare treats that feel both indulgent and wholesome. With a buttery oat crust, a juicy mango filling, and a crunchy topping, this recipe hits all the right notes for a snack or dessert you’ll want to reach for again and again. Whether you’re baking for your family or bringing a dish to share, these bars will brighten any table and warm any heart. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!