Soft bars featuring earthy matcha, tart cranberries, and a golden oat crumble for a wholesome snack or start to your day.
# Components:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1 cup whole wheat flour
03 - 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
04 - 2 tablespoons culinary grade matcha powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Wet Ingredients
07 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
08 - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
09 - 1 large egg
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Filling & Add-ins
11 - 1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or sweetened)
12 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
13 - Zest of 1 orange (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large bowl, combine oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt.
03 - Whisk together melted butter, honey or maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until well blended.
04 - Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Mixture will be crumbly but should hold when pressed.
05 - Gently fold in dried cranberries, nuts, and orange zest if using.
06 - Set aside 3/4 cup of the mixture for topping. Press remaining mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
07 - Sprinkle reserved mixture evenly over base, pressing lightly to adhere.
08 - Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until edges are golden and the top is set.
09 - Allow bars to cool completely in pan before lifting out and cutting into 12 bars.
