Chewy, sweet, and festively colorful, Easy Christmas Cranberry Oat Bars are the perfect treat for the holiday season. With delightful hints of cinnamon and cranberries, these bars offer a wholesome sweetness that’s sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re preparing for holiday gatherings, or simply indulging in a cozy day at home, these bars are simple to whip up and enjoy throughout the festive season.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 16 bars
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150
- Protein: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 22 grams
- Fat: 7 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 8 grams
- Sodium: 70 mg
Why Make This Easy Christmas Cranberry Oat Bars
These Easy Christmas Cranberry Oat Bars combine the comforting taste of oats with the tangy sweetness of cranberries. They are perfect for snacking, breakfast on-the-go, or even as a dessert. The recipe is straightforward, allowing even novice bakers to create a delightful treat that the whole family can enjoy. Plus, they add a beautiful touch to any holiday dessert platter, bursting with red and gold!
How to Make Easy Christmas Cranberry Oat Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup honey
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure your bars come out easily.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon until well combined. This dry mixture will form the base and topping of your bars.
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Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Pour the melted butter and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Stir gently until everything is nicely combined and has a crumbly texture.
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Step 4: Assembling
Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a base. Then, spread the dried cranberries evenly over this layer. Drizzle the honey over the cranberries, and finally, sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top to create a tasty, crunchy lid.
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Step 5: Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and begins to smell delightful.
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Step 6: Cooling
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. This cooling time helps to firm them up for easier serving.
How to Serve Easy Christmas Cranberry Oat Bars
These bars are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for a dessert treat. Alternatively, enjoy them as a quick breakfast with your morning coffee or as a sweet snack anytime throughout the day.
How to Store Easy Christmas Cranberry Oat Bars
Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to three months, making sure to label them for easy identification!
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Christmas Cranberry Oat Bars
- Perfectly Measure Ingredients: For the best texture, be sure to measure your dry ingredients accurately.
- Add Nuts: Walnuts or pecans can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor—just chop them up and mix them into the oat mixture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your dried cranberries aren’t stale for the best flavor; they should be plump and juicy.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey by a couple of tablespoons.
- Cut When Cool: For cleaner cuts, be sure to let the bars cool completely before slicing.
Delicious Variations
- Berry Bliss: Swap cranberries for mixed dried berries, such as blueberries and raspberries, for a fruity twist.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Chunk: Mix in some dark or white chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
- Spiced Up: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats will work, but the texture of the bars may be slightly different—less chewy and more crumbly. -
What can I substitute for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as alternatives, adjusting sweetness to taste. -
Do I have to use butter?
For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. -
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are marked gluten-free. -
How do I know when they’re done baking?
Look for a golden-brown top, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean with a few crumbs, not wet batter.
Conclusion
Easy Christmas Cranberry Oat Bars are not just delicious but also a heartfelt way to embrace the holiday spirit with family and friends. Their sweet, chewy texture and festive flavor make them a staple for any holiday celebration. So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas that will bring warmth and joy to your home. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful bars!
