Chewy bars combining matcha, cranberries, and oat crumble for a wholesome, energizing treat.
# What you'll need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1 cup whole wheat flour
03 - ½ cup packed light brown sugar
04 - 2 tablespoons culinary grade matcha powder
05 - ½ teaspoon baking soda
06 - ¼ teaspoon salt
→ Wet Ingredients
07 - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
08 - ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
09 - 1 large egg
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Filling & Add-ins
11 - 1 cup dried cranberries, sweetened or unsweetened
12 - ½ 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, mix oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly distributed.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, honey or maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
04 - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, forming a slightly crumbly, pressable dough.
05 - Fold in dried cranberries, nuts, and orange zest if using, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
06 - Reserve ¾ cup of the mixture for the topping and press the remainder firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
07 - Sprinkle the reserved mixture evenly over the pressed base and press gently to adhere.
08 - Bake for 28 to 32 minutes until the edges turn golden and the topping is set.
09 - Allow to cool completely in the pan before lifting out using parchment overhang and cutting into 12 bars.
