These Oatmeal Cranberry Bars are a yummy treat packed with oats, sweet cranberries, and a hint of cinnamon. They’re chewy, fruity, and perfect for a quick snack!
Baking these bars is a breeze! I love having them ready for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, they make my kitchen smell amazing while they bake! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness of your bars. You can substitute it with coconut oil or any plant-based butter if you want a dairy-free option. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries add a tart flavor, but dried cranberries are just as delicious! If you have a sweet tooth, try using chocolate chips or raisins instead. These are great substitutions based on your personal taste.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the right texture. You could use quick oats in a pinch, but be aware they might make the bars a bit softer. Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they need longer cooking time.
Baking Soda: This gives the bars a lift. If you’re out, you can substitute with baking powder—just use three times the amount, and note that it might affect the final texture a bit.
How Do I Get the Perfect Oatmeal Bar Texture?
Getting the right texture is key to delicious Oatmeal Cranberry Bars. Here’s how to make it work:
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted. Creaming it with sugar adds air, which helps the bars rise.
- Don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients; mix just until combined to keep them chewy.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan, especially the base layer. This helps it hold together once baked.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. The bars should be golden and set but can still feel soft in the center; they will firm up as they cool.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly chewy and tasty oatmeal bars that everyone will love!
Oatmeal Cranberry Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base and Topping:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
For the Mix-Ins:
- 2 cups fresh or dried cranberries
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, plus some time for cooling. So, overall, plan for about 1 hour to have your delicious Oatmeal Cranberry Bars ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, get a 9×13-inch baking pan ready by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light grease. This will help with easy removal after baking!
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, add your softened butter and packed light brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, cream them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This process helps incorporate air for a lighter texture.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Crack in your two large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, letting the sweet scent fill your kitchen!
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed and will help your bars rise perfectly.
5. Mix It All Together:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture. Mix just until everything comes together—don’t overdo it! You want to keep the texture nice and chewy. Then, gently stir in the rolled oats and cranberries, being careful not to burst the cranberries too much.
6. Layer the Mixture:
Press about two-thirds of the oatmeal mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form a solid base. Then, sprinkle the remaining third on top to create a crumbly topping.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bars feel set. Keep an eye on them as they bake!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the pan out and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. After they are completely cool, dust the top with powdered sugar if you’d like. Cut them into squares and serve up your tasty treats!
These Oatmeal Cranberry Bars are a delightful combination of chewy oats and tart cranberries, making them a perfect snack or dessert. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Sweeteners?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup. If using liquid sweeteners, adjust the flour slightly, reducing it by a couple of tablespoons, to maintain the right texture.
Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make gluten-free Oatmeal Cranberry Bars, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free as well to avoid any cross-contamination.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any uneaten bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Add Nuts or Other Dried Fruits?
Definitely! Feel free to add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. You can also mix in other dried fruits like raisins or apricots according to your taste preference!