Description
These Cranberry, Orange & Pecan Oatmeal Bars are a wholesome, naturally sweetened snack perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat. Packed with rolled oats, dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a zesty orange twist, they offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures with the added goodness of honey and coconut oil. Easy to prepare and baked until golden, these bars are both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the bars.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, orange zest, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix them thoroughly to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are coated and the mixture is evenly combined.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, ensuring it is compacted for sturdy bars.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn a golden brown, indicating the bars are cooked through.
- Cool and Slice: Remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This cooling step helps the bars set firmly. Once cooled, slice into 12 equal squares and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute the honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Ensure coconut oil is melted but not hot before mixing to avoid cooking the wet ingredients prematurely.
- The bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerated to extend freshness.
- Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or almonds based on preference.
- For a sweeter bar, add an extra tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
