A zesty, nutty treat perfect for breakfast or as a healthy snack. These Cranberry, Orange & Pecan Oatmeal Bars bars are loaded with the tangy flavor of cranberries, the crunch of pecans, and the bright zest of orange, making them a wholesome and flavorful option for any time of the day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy making these bars because they are simple, healthy, and incredibly versatile. The natural sweetness from honey or maple syrup pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries, while the orange zest adds a refreshing citrus note. They are perfect for meal prep, travel-friendly, and can easily be customized with different nuts or dried fruits.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
Zest of 1 orange
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of sea salt
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix the oats, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, orange zest, cinnamon, and sea salt.
In another bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until everything is evenly mixed.
Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 squares.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
Dried Fruit: Replace cranberries with raisins, dried cherries, or chopped dried apricots for a new flavor twist.
Spices: Add nutmeg or cardamom for a spiced aroma.
Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats to make the recipe gluten-free.
Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months.
If frozen, thaw the bars at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
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FAQs
How do I keep the bars from crumbling?
I recommend pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish and allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing. This ensures they hold their shape.
Can I make these without coconut oil?
Yes, you can use melted butter or another neutral oil as a substitute for coconut oil.
Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Absolutely! Mix a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the dry ingredients for an extra boost.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these bars are perfect for meal prep. Make them ahead and store them as directed for a quick snack or breakfast option.
Are these bars gluten-free?
They can be if you use certified gluten-free oats.
Conclusion
These Cranberry, Orange & Pecan Oatmeal Bars are a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors, perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a homemade treat, these bars are sure to satisfy. Give them a try and enjoy a burst of wholesome goodness in every bite.
📖 Recipe:
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Cranberry, Orange & Pecan Oatmeal Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a wholesome, zesty treat with these Cranberry, Orange & Pecan Oatmeal Bars. Packed with tangy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a refreshing hint of orange zest, these bars are perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
Zest of 1 orange
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, orange zest, ground cinnamon, and sea salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until fully combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 squares.
Notes
For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
Make these gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate for 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 bars
- Calories: 180 kcal