Imagine a treat that combines the zesty punch of orange, the tangy sweetness of cranberries, and the warm, spicy kick of ginger—all wrapped up in a perfectly chewy oat bar. These aren't just any ordinary snack; they're a culinary adventure that will transform your taste buds and elevate your homemade dessert game. Whether you're a busy professional looking for a quick energy boost or a home baker seeking a crowd-pleasing recipe, these Orange and Cranberry Ginger Oat Bars are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped crystallized ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients until they are well combined.
- In a separate bowl, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Once melted, add 1/4 cup of honey to the butter and stir until they are fully combined.
- Pour the butter and honey mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir well until all the dry ingredients are moistened and evenly mixed.
- Add 1 cup of dried cranberries and 1/4 cup of chopped crystallized ginger to the mixture. Fold these ingredients in gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the oat mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly with the back of a spatula or your hands to create an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
- After the bars have cooled, cut them into 12 equal pieces. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips
- Use high-quality rolled oats for the best texture and flavor.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure compact, cohesive bars.
- For extra flavor, toast the oats lightly in a dry skillet before mixing for a nuttier taste.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the brown sugar slightly.
- Experiment with different dried fruits like chopped apricots or raisins for variety.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- For a more decadent version, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled bars.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
