Name: Oatmeal Cranberry Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup flour (whole wheat or all-purpose); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup melted butter or coconut oil; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oatmeal cranberry bars are a wholesome snack that combines chewy oats with the tartness of cranberries. They’re easy to make and perfect for on-the-go energy or a sweet treat.

Why you’ll love this dish

These bars are nutritious, satisfying, and customizable. They are great for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.

"These bars are the perfect balance of chewy and sweet!"

They keep well and are simple to make, making them an ideal choice for meal prep.

How it comes together

Mix the dry ingredients, then blend in wet ingredients and cranberries. Bake until set and cool before cutting into bars.

Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min

What you’ll need

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup flour (whole wheat or all-purpose)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup melted butter or coconut oil
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Note: Substitute maple syrup with agave for a vegan option.

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
In a bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, combine honey, melted butter, and vanilla.
Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Fold in cranberries until evenly distributed.
Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Best ways to enjoy it

Enjoy these bars as a snack, or pair them with yogurt or fruit for breakfast. They also go well with tea or coffee.

Storage and reheating tips

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Helpful cooking tips

Press the mixture firmly into the baking dish for better texture.
Allow bars to cool completely for easier cutting.
Experiment with different dried fruits for variety.

Creative twists

Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Use chocolate chips instead of cranberries for a sweeter variation.
Mix in spices like cinnamon for added flavor.

FAQ

Can I use fresh cranberries?
Fresh cranberries are too tart; it’s best to use dried cranberries.

How do I cut the bars neatly?
Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for clean edges.

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, freeze them wrapped individually for easy snacking later.