Are you looking for a delightful treat that perfectly blends the sweet tang of cranberries with the wholesome goodness of oats? Look no further than our recipe for Cranberry Oatmeal Bar Cookies. These irresistible cookies are a wonderful combination of chewy oats, tart cranberries, and just the right hint of sweetness. These bar cookies are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering at home or simply want a delicious snack to enjoy with a cup of tea. So let’s get baking!
**Cranberry Oatmeal Bar Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup old-fashioned oats
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. **Prepare the dry ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. **Cream the butter and sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
4. **Add the wet ingredients:** Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until smooth and well incorporated.
5. **Combine the dry and wet ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Fold in the cranberries and white chocolate chips:** Gently fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips (if using) into the cookie dough, distributing them evenly.
7. **Press the dough into the pan:** Press about two-thirds of the dough into the prepared baking pan, using your hands or a spatula to create an even layer. Save the remaining dough for topping.
8. **Bake the cookies:** Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
9. **Cool and slice:** Allow the cookies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into bars and serve.
Enjoy these Cranberry Oatmeal Bar Cookies as a delightful treat any time of the day. The chewy texture, sweet cranberries, and hearty oats make these cookies a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you are sharing these with loved ones or keeping them all to yourself, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
