Sweet dates and tart cranberries come together in these delicious oat bars, drizzled with a flavorful vanilla glaze. Perfect for the holiday season, these bars balance sweetness and tartness beautifully.
1: Preheat oven to 350°F.
2: Place cranberries, dates, zest, water and sugar in a saucepan; bring to a boil over medium heat.
3: Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until berries pop, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4: Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.
5: Mix flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda and salt; stir in melted butter.
6: Press half of the mixture into an ungreased 13x9-inch pan.
7: Bake for 8 minutes.
8: Spoon cranberry mixture over the crust.
9: Sprinkle with remaining oat mixture; pat down gently.
10: Bake until golden brown, 25-30 minutes longer.
11: Cool completely on a wire rack.
12: Mix glaze ingredients and drizzle over the top.
