Chewy, nutty, and bursting with festive flavor!
Makes approximately 12 bars.
Darlin’, these Cranberry Almond Granola Bars are like a little slice of holiday heaven in every bite! Packed with chewy dried cranberries, crunchy almonds, and sweet honey, they’re the perfect addition to your Christmas goodie tray or an energizing snack during the holiday rush. These bars are easy to whip up, full of festive flavors, and sure to become a favorite treat for all your loved ones.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats: The hearty base for these granola bars.
- ½ cup chopped almonds: Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
- ½ cup dried cranberries: For a sweet-tart holiday twist.
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup: Binds everything together with natural sweetness.
- ¼ cup almond butter (or peanut butter): Adds richness and keeps the bars chewy.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: A warm, sweet touch.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon: A cozy hint of spice.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Supplies Needed
- Mixing bowl
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace:
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal. Preheat your oven to 325°F if you prefer slightly toasted bars.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, dried cranberries, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined. - Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a small microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey and almond butter for about 20 seconds until smooth and pourable. Stir in the vanilla extract. - Mix It All Together:
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is evenly coated and sticks together. - Press into the Pan:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press the mixture firmly into an even layer. - Chill or Bake:
For no-bake bars, refrigerate the pan for 1-2 hours until firm. For a toasted flavor, bake at 325°F for 10-12 minutes, then let cool completely. - Cut and Serve:
Use the parchment overhang to lift the granola slab out of the pan. Slice into 12 bars and enjoy!
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for a firmer texture.
- Freezing: Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Tip 1: Add a drizzle of white chocolate over the bars for a festive touch.
- Tip 2: Swap out almonds for pecans or walnuts if you prefer.
- Tip 3: Work quickly when pressing the mixture into the pan to ensure it sets evenly.
Variations
- Chocolate Cranberry Bars: Mix in ¼ cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweet addition.
- Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter and omit the almonds for an allergy-friendly option.
- Berry Delight Bars: Substitute dried cranberries with dried cherries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
FAQ
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer.
Q: Can I make these vegan?
Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your dried cranberries are vegan-friendly.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Of course! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the chill or bake time as needed.
Final Thoughts
These Cranberry Almond Granola Bars are the perfect mix of chewy, crunchy, and festive flavors. Ideal for gifting, snacking, or adding to your Christmas goodie tray, they’re a treat everyone will love. So grab your oats and cranberries, darlin’, and let’s make some holiday magic—one delicious bar at a time!
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