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The first crucial step in creating your Cranberry-Apple Delight Oatmeal Bars is the proper mixing of dry ingredients. This step is vital for ensuring that your bars have a consistent texture and flavor throughout. To begin, gather your dry ingredients which typically include rolled oats, flour, baking powder, salt, and any spices you choose to incorporate, such as cinnamon or nutmeg.

Cranberry Apple Oatmeal Bars

Discover the joy of healthy snacking with Cranberry-Apple Delight Oatmeal Bars. This easy recipe combines the heartiness of oats with the sweetness of apples and tart cranberries, making it perfect for breakfast or a midday pick-me-up. Packed with fiber and antioxidants, these bars are as nutritious as they are delicious. Explore customization options to fit your taste, and enjoy a wholesome treat that keeps you energized throughout the day!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rolled oats

1 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 cup fresh or dried cranberries

1 cup diced apples (approximately 2 medium apples)

1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper to facilitate easy removal of the bars after baking.

    Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mix together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, packed brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir until all the dry ingredients are evenly combined.

      Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and applesauce until the mixture is smooth. Once blended, pour this wet mix into the bowl containing the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

        Incorporate Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in the cranberries, diced apples, and chopped nuts (if desired) into the mixture until they are evenly distributed throughout.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, ensuring all corners are filled.

            Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bars are done when the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

              Cool and Cut: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Use the edges of the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish, and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares or bars.

                Serve and Store: Enjoy these nutritious bars as a delightful breakfast or snack. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerated for extended freshness.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

                    - Presentation Tips: For a special touch, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the bars before serving, and garnish with additional fresh cranberries and apple slices on the side for added visual appeal!