Description
Deliciously wholesome Cranberry, Orange & Pecan Oatmeal Bars with a perfect balance of tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and zesty orange. These bars are naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup, enriched with coconut oil and applesauce for moistness, and lightly spiced with cinnamon for warmth. Ideal for a nutritious breakfast or a satisfying snack.
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 oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy removal of the bars.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, orange zest, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir these ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until the mixture is fully combined and sticky.
- Press mixture into pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press firmly and evenly, ensuring the surface is compacted to help the bars hold together after baking.
- Bake the bars: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges turn a golden brown, indicating the bars are cooked through and slightly crisp on the edges.
- Cool and slice: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, lift them out using the parchment and slice into 12 equal squares for serving.
Notes
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly in the pan for better bar structure.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
