Cranberry Oatmeal Bars

Short description

Delightfully chewy and filled with tangy cranberries, these bars combine a golden oat crust with a soft, fruity filling—perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars offer the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and hearty. They are simple to prepare, require no mixer, and can be easily adapted for different dietary needs or flavor preferences. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled, they make a satisfying treat for any time of day.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• old-fashioned rolled oats

• all-purpose flour (or gluten-free substitute if needed)

• unsalted butter, melted or softened

• granulated sugar and/or brown sugar

• baking powder or baking soda

• salt and optional spices such as cinnamon

• fresh or frozen cranberries (or cranberry sauce)

• cornstarch, maple syrup, or honey as a binder depending on the filling style

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line or grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.

2. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, sugars, butter, leavening agent, salt, and any spices until a crumbly mixture forms.

3. Reserve about ¾ to 1 cup of the mixture for the topping.

4. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the prepared pan to create the base.

5. Spread cranberry filling evenly over the base.

6. Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture on top of the cranberries.

7. Bake for 20–35 minutes, until the edges are golden and the top is lightly crisp.

8. Cool completely before cutting into bars for clean slices.

Servings and timing

• Servings: About 9 bars in an 8×8-inch pan

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Bake time: 20–35 minutes

• Cooling time: 1–2 hours until set

Variations

• Use leftover cranberry sauce instead of fresh fruit for convenience.

• Swap in gluten-free oats and flour for a gluten-free option.

• Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.

• Add chopped nuts for extra crunch.

• Incorporate orange zest or cinnamon for a festive flavor boost.

storage/reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 7 days.

• Freezer: Store for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

• Reheating: Warm individual bars in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds if desired.

FAQs

What type of oats work best?

Old-fashioned rolled oats give the best texture, while quick oats create a denser base.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, they work well straight from the freezer without thawing.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes—use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend.

Is cranberry sauce a good substitute for fresh cranberries?

Yes, it’s an easy and flavorful alternative.

How long should they cool before slicing?

At least 1–2 hours, so the filling sets and slices cleanly.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the cranberry filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What size pan should I use?

An 8×8-inch pan works for 9 bars; a larger pan will yield thinner bars.

Can I add spices or other flavors?

Yes—cinnamon, nutmeg, or orange zest add a pleasant twist.

How do I prevent the bars from sticking together when stored?

Place parchment or wax paper between layers.

Can these be served warm?

Yes, though they will be softer and more crumbly when warm.

Conclusion

Cranberry oatmeal bars are a delightful combination of tart fruit and hearty oats, making them both satisfying and versatile. With simple preparation, endless variations, and easy storage, they are a perfect choice for holiday gatherings, afternoon snacks, or make-ahead breakfasts.

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