Cranberry Almond Breakfast Bars – Nutty, Chewy & Perfectly Sweet
Start your mornings with a wholesome bite of these chewy, nutty bars packed with tart cranberries and crunchy almonds. They’re quick to make, naturally sweetened, and perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, or a family-friendly snack on the go.
Breakfast doesn’t have to be boring or rushed. Inspired by the comforting flavors of homemade granola, these bars combine chewy dried cranberries, crunchy almonds, and hearty oats into a satisfying grab-and-go option.
Packed with protein, fiber, and natural sweetness, they’re a healthier alternative to sugary store-bought snacks. Whether you’re fueling up for work, packing school lunches, or just want something wholesome with your morning coffee, these bars are guaranteed to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—no complicated steps.
- Naturally sweetened and loaded with wholesome ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep—make a batch and enjoy all week.
- Versatile—easy to swap ingredients to match your taste.
- Great for on-the-go snacking, breakfast, or even dessert.
Cranberry Almond Breakfast Bars
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup almonds roughly chopped; can substitute walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup dried cranberries or swap with raisins, dried cherries, or blueberries
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup almond butter peanut butter or sunflower seed butter work too
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ cup shredded coconut for extra texture
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips for a treat
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseeds for added nutrition
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- Toast the Oats & Nuts (Optional but Recommended): Spread oats and chopped almonds on a baking sheet. Toast for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. This step deepens the flavor.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine almond butter and honey (or maple syrup). Stir until smooth and slightly warm. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted oats, almonds, cranberries, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
- Bring It All Together: Pour the warm almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is evenly coated and sticky.
- Press Into Pan: Transfer mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula (or your hands with parchment paper on top) to press the mixture down firmly and evenly. The tighter you press, the better the bars will hold.
- Bake & Set: Bake for 15–18 minutes until edges are slightly golden. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing into squares or rectangles.
Pro Tips & Variations
- For a softer, chewier bar: Skip baking and just refrigerate the pressed mixture for at least 2 hours before cutting.
- Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of almonds and sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter.
- Extra Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder to the dry ingredients.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. These bars also freeze well—wrap individually for grab-and-go convenience.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying breakfast.
- Enjoy with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for extra protein.
- Perfect for lunchboxes, hikes, or post-workout snacks.
- Dress them up with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a holiday-worthy treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They’re perfect for meal prep. Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy all week.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Wrap bars individually in parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or pop in the microwave for 20 seconds.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats work best for structure.
