Oatmeal Cranberry Bars
Wholesome and delightful Oatmeal Cranberry Bars with oats, tart cranberries, and a touch of orange. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Servings: 12 bars
Calories: 250kcal
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!
Notes
These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair with yogurt or vanilla ice cream for a special treat. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.