Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, melted coconut oil or butter, brown sugar, ground flaxseed, and salt. Stir until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press the crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, cranberries, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour this vibrant mixture over the crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges have a nice golden hue and the center is firm.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares for serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
There’s no wrong way to enjoy these cranberry pecan pie bars! Serve them warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a festive touch, drizzle a bit of extra maple syrup on top and garnish with whole pecans. Pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for your afternoon snack, or bring them to share at your next gathering!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your cranberry pecan pie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to save them for later, they freeze beautifully! Simply wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag or an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or reheat briefly in the microwave.
Helpful cooking tips
- When measuring your oats and flour, make sure to spoon them into your measuring cup, then level them off with a knife for accuracy.
- If you want to boost the nutritional value, add a tablespoon of chia seeds or some shredded coconut to the crust mixture.
- For an extra crunchy topping, sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top of the filling before baking.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on these cranberry pecan pie bars! Try swapping cranberries for blueberries or cherries for a different flavor profile. You can also add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust for a warm, aromatic kick. For a vegan version, substitute maple syrup and coconut oil to maintain sweetness and moisture.
Common questions
How long do these bars take to prepare?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 10 minutes on prep and 30 minutes baking, making this a quick recipe!
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries work well too, and they’ll add a nice chewiness to the bars. Just ensure they are not too sweet, as they can alter the balance of flavors.
What’s the best way to serve these bars?
These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly warmed, and they pair wonderfully with ice cream or a cup of coffee. If you’re serving them at a gathering, cut them into small squares for easy sharing!
