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Cranberry Orange Pecan Bars are a delightful fusion of flavors that perfectly capture the essence of the fall season. This delectable treat blends the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges and the rich crunch of pecans. The result is a dessert that is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an ideal choice for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a comforting snack. These bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a texture that is both chewy and crunchy, making them a favorite among dessert lovers of all ages.

Cranberry Orange Pecan Bars

Discover the perfect fall treat with these Cranberry Orange Pecan Bars! This delightful dessert combines the tartness of fresh cranberries, the zesty brightness of oranges, and the rich crunch of pecans, creating a mouth-watering snack that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Ideal for gatherings or cozy afternoons, these bars balance sweet and tart flavors with a chewy-crunchy texture, ensuring they’re a hit for dessert lovers of all ages. Follow our simple guide to create this seasonal favorite that’s nutritious and satisfying!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped

1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped

Zest of 1 large orange (about 1 tablespoon)

1/3 cup fresh orange juice

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This step will help you lift the bars out neatly once they are cooled.

    Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Gradually pour in the melted butter and mix thoroughly until the mixture has a texture reminiscent of wet sand. Press this crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a solid base.

      Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden around the edges. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before proceeding to the next step.

        Prepare the Filling: In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together the large egg, granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and pure vanilla extract until completely smooth and well combined.

          Add the Fillings: Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and chopped pecans into the egg mixture, ensuring that all the cranberries and nuts are evenly coated with the filling mixture.

            Combine and Bake: Pour the cranberry-pecan filling over the baked crust, using a spatula to spread it out evenly across the top. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges have turned a delightful golden brown.

              Cool and Slice: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Once they have cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles for serving.

                Serve and Enjoy: These fragrant and flavorful bars are excellent on their own or you can dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They make a delightful treat for holiday gatherings, family picnics, or as a scrumptious midday snack!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 16 bars