Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-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.