Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars
introduction
Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly combines tangy and sweet flavors. These bars are not just a tasty dessert; they also offer a wholesome option for snack time or special occasions. Made with almond and coconut flours, they provide a gluten-free alternative that many can enjoy. The vibrant notes of orange paired with chewy cranberries create a refreshing and delicious flavor profile that is hard to resist. Whether you are packing them for a lunch box or serving them as a dessert after dinner, these cookie bars are sure to impress.
What makes these cookie bars stand out is their ease of preparation. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up a batch in no time. The pleasant aroma of baking cookie bars fills your kitchen, tempting everyone to gather around. As you cut these bars into squares, you get to enjoy not only the taste but also the little bursts of color from dried cranberries and the zest of orange that brighten up your plate. In this article, we will explore why you should make these Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars, how to make them, and much more!
why make this recipe
These Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars are worth making for several reasons. First and foremost, they are delicious! The combination of tangy cranberries and zesty orange creates a mouthwatering flavor that is perfect for any occasion. Secondly, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional cookie recipes. By using almond and coconut flours instead of regular flour, these bars cater to those looking for gluten-free options.
Moreover, these cookie bars are naturally sweetened with maple syrup, making them a kinder choice for your sugar intake. They also contain heart-healthy fats from coconut oil. Not only are they tasty and healthier, but they are incredibly easy to prepare. The simple mixing and baking process means you can have a delicious dessert ready in under an hour. Whether you’re entertaining guests, looking for a midday snack, or wanting to treat your family, these bars check all the boxes!
how to make Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup coconut flour
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- Juice of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. This helps to prevent the cookie bars from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, and salt. This mixture forms the base of your cookie bars, providing structure and flavor.
- In another bowl, mix the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. The wet ingredients are responsible for adding moisture and sweetness to the cookie bars.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Make sure to mix well to ensure that all the flour is moistened. Then, fold in the dried cranberries, which will give your cookie bars a chewy texture and tart flavor.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking, as this can make the bars dry.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars. This step is essential, as it helps the bars set and makes them easier to cut without falling apart.
how to serve Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars
Serving these Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars is simple and fun. You can cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. For a special touch, consider dusting them with a bit of powdered sugar before serving. This adds a nice visual contrast and a hint of sweetness on top.
These bars can be enjoyed alone or paired with a nice cup of tea or coffee. They make an excellent addition to a dessert platter for gatherings or potlucks, providing guests with a tasty homemade treat. You could also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
how to store Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars
To keep your Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about 3-5 days. If you want to extend their life, consider refrigerating them. In the fridge, these cookie bars can last for about a week.
For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. This will help protect them from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or heat them briefly in the microwave.
tips to make Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, especially the orange, the more vibrant your cookie bars will taste.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the bars dense.
- Be Mindful of Baking Time: Each oven is different. Start checking your bars at the 25-minute mark to ensure they don’t over-bake.
- Let Them Cool Completely: Cooling your bars fully helps them set and makes cutting easier.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or even white chocolate chips for extra flavor.
variation (if any)
There are several ways to customize your Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars. For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans. If you’re a fan of coconut, you could sprinkle some unsweetened shredded coconut into the mixture.
For those who prefer a sweeter bar, adding a bit of brown sugar along with the maple syrup can enhance the sweetness without altering the texture much. If you’re looking for a bit of spice, a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, comforting flavor that compliments the orange and cranberry beautifully.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you may need to adjust the sweetness as fresh cranberries are tart. - Is this recipe nut-free?
No, this recipe contains almond flour. However, you can substitute almond flour with oat flour for a nut-free option. - How do I know when the bars are done baking?
They should be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. - Can I substitute coconut oil with another oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil or melted butter, but it may change the flavor slightly. - What can I do if my bars are too crumbly?
If your bars are crumbly, it could be due to overmixing or not enough moisture. Try adding a bit more maple syrup or coconut oil in your next batch.
Enjoy baking these delicious Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars; they are sure to become a favorite in your household!
Cranberry Orange Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.