Cranberry Oatmeal Bars are a perfect balance of sweet and tart, bringing together the chewy texture of oats with the bright zing of cranberry. These bars are layered with a cranberry filling nestled between two buttery oat layers, making them a great choice for breakfast, snacking, or even dessert. With the natural sweetness of the cranberries and the heartiness of oats, they’re a satisfying treat with just the right amount of wholesome flavor. Plus, they’re easy to make and store well, making them an ideal make-ahead option for holiday gatherings or lunchbox treats.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare Cranberry Filling: In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, and orange juice. Cook over medium heat until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make Oat Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
- Assemble Layers: Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Spread the cranberry filling evenly over the crust. Top with the remaining oat mixture, pressing it lightly.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
- Serve: Slice into squares and enjoy! Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
These Cranberry Oatmeal Bars are a tasty way to enjoy seasonal cranberries in a versatile, delicious form that’s sure to satisfy any craving for a fruity, hearty treat.
