Cranberry-Date Caramel Bars Recipe
Introduction
If you’re searching for a delightful treat that beautifully balances chewiness and sweetness, look no further than these delectable Cranberry-Date Caramel Bars. Originating from the package of dried cranberries, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser and perfect for gatherings or a sweet snack at home. The base is a buttery oat crust that melds harmoniously with the tartness of cranberries and the rich, caramel-like sweetness of dates, offering an irresistible combination that keeps you coming back for more. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of chocolate chips on top could elevate this treat to another level of deliciousness.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 261.4 |
| Total Fat | 11.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 20.5 mg |
| Sodium | 131 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g |
| Sugars | 13.9 g |
| Protein | 3.2 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 1/3 cups | all-purpose flour |
| 2 cups | rolled oats |
| 1/2 cup | granulated sugar |
| 1/2 cup | brown sugar |
| 1/2 teaspoon | baking soda |
| 1 cup | unsalted butter, melted |
| 1 cup | dried cranberries |
| 1 cup | chopped dates |
| 1 cup | chopped pecans |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
Instructions
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Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a delightful 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring even baking, so don’t skip it!
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Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease or spray the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking pan. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make for easy removal once they are baked.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, rolled oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and baking soda. If you prefer, you can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile. Mix these dry ingredients together until they are well combined.
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Incorporate Butter: Pour the melted butter into the dry mixture and stir until it forms a crumbly texture. This step is vital as it provides the bars with a rich, buttery flavor.
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Reserve Topping: From the crumb mixture, set aside 1 cup to use later as a topping. This will add a delightful crunch to the finished product.
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Press into Pan: Press the remaining crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. This will form the base of your bars, providing a sturdy foundation for all the delicious toppings.
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Initial Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. The goal here is to achieve a lightly golden color, which indicates the base is ready for the toppings.
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Add the Goodies: Once the base is baked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle it evenly with dried cranberries, chopped dates, and chopped pecans. This combination not only adds flavor but also brings a lovely texture to the bars.
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Prepare the Caramel Topping: In a separate bowl, stir together the caramel topping with 1/3 cup of flour. This mixture will help create a luscious caramel layer over the fruits and nuts. Drizzle this concoction evenly over the cranberries, dates, and pecans.
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Finish with Reserved Crumbs: Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the caramel layer. This will create a delightful crust that contrasts beautifully with the gooey filling.
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Final Baking: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 18 to 20 minutes. You want the top to be lightly golden and set, which will give the bars a perfect chewy texture.
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Cool Down: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Allowing the bars to cool in the pan ensures they will hold their shape when cut.
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Slice into Bars: Once completely cool, cut the mixture into 24 bars. Each bite will deliver a perfect balance of chewy, sweet, and nutty flavors.
Conclusion
These Cranberry-Date Caramel Bars are not only easy to make but are also a versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether served at a family gathering or as a sweet afternoon snack, they’re sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps above, and indulge in the wonderful flavors that these bars have to offer! Enjoy your baking adventure at Love With Recipes!
