Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Oatmeal Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

1. Spread half of the oatmeal mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Layer the sliced strawberries over the oatmeal base.
3. Crumble the remaining oatmeal mixture on top of the strawberries, pressing down gently.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Once cooled, slice into bars and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.