Oatmeal Cranberry Bars
Oatmeal Cranberry Bars are a delightful and wholesome treat that combines the chewy goodness of oats with the tartness of cranberries. These bars are perfect for breakfast on the go, an afternoon snack, or as a sweet addition to your lunchbox. With a touch of orange juice and vanilla, each bite offers a burst of flavor that is both satisfying and energizing. Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Gather Your Oatmeal Cranberry Bars Ingredients
To whip up these delicious Oatmeal Cranberry Bars, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 (12 oz) package cranberries
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons orange juice or water
- 1/4 teaspoon dried orange peel (optional)
- 2 cups gluten-free quick oats
- 2 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour
- 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup butter, melted (or dairy-free substitute)
- 1 (8 oz) package chopped sugared dates
- 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice or milk (almond milk works)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon dried orange peel (optional)
Step-by-Step Oatmeal Cranberry Bars Recipe
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9×13 glass pan with gluten-free cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Combine cranberries, dates, and orange juice in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer covered for about 15 minutes, until the cranberries pop, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
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In a large bowl, mix together the gluten-free flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Once well combined, stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.
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Press half of the oat mixture into the prepared baking pan, making an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes.
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Spread the cranberry mixture over the baked crust. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth it evenly across the surface.
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Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the cranberry layer, using your hands to pat it down gently.
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Bake the bars in the oven until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
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Prepare the glaze by combining the glaze ingredients in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
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Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
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Allow to cool completely, then cut into bars and enjoy! Store any leftover bars in an airtight container.
How to Serve Oatmeal Cranberry Bars
These Oatmeal Cranberry Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them warm or at room temperature. They make a great snack on their own, or you can pair them with a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. For a breakfast option, enjoy them alongside fresh fruit and a cup of coffee or tea.
Expert Tips for Oatmeal Cranberry Bars
- Get Creative: Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or almonds for a crunchy texture. You could also replace cranberries with other dried fruits like cherries or apricots for a different flavor.
- Storage Tips: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for longer freshness.
- Gluten-Free Variations: If you’re not gluten-sensitive, you can use regular oats and all-purpose flour for a different texture.
Oatmeal Cranberry Bars: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with your favorite dairy-free option, and ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly.
How should I store leftover bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can refrigerate them for a longer shelf life.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Cut the bars and wrap them individually, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Baking Oatmeal Cranberry Bars is not only simple, but the end result is a delicious and healthful treat that everyone will love. Enjoy making these yummy bars, and don’t forget to share them with your friends and family!
Oatmeal Cranberry Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz 1 (12 oz) package cranberries
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons orange juice or water Orange juice recommended for flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon dried orange peel (optional) For added flavor
- 2 cups 2 cups gluten-free quick oats
- 2 cups 2 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour
- 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional) Use for texture if needed
- 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup 1 cup butter, melted (or dairy-free substitute)
- 8 oz 1 (8 oz) package chopped sugared dates
- 1 1/2 cups 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
- 2 cups 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons orange juice or milk (almond milk works) Use milk for a creamier glaze
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon 1/8 teaspoon dried orange peel (optional) For extra flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9×13 glass pan with gluten-free cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine cranberries, dates, and orange juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and let it simmer covered for about 15 minutes, until the cranberries pop, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- In a large bowl, mix gluten-free flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press half of the oat mixture into the prepared pan, making an even layer. Bake for 8 minutes.
- Spread the cranberry mixture over the baked crust and smooth it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the cranberry layer, patting it down gently.
- Bake the bars until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
Glazing
- Prepare the glaze by mixing the glaze ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
- Allow to cool completely, then cut into bars and enjoy!
