Soft, chewy bars with matcha, cranberries, and golden oat crumble for a wholesome start or energizing snack.
# What You Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1 cup whole wheat flour
03 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
04 - 2 tablespoons culinary grade matcha powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Wet Ingredients
07 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
08 - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
09 - 1 large egg
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Filling & Add-ins
11 - 1 cup dried cranberries
12 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
13 - Zest of 1 orange (optional)
# How To Make:
01 - Set oven to 350°F and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang.
02 - Combine oats, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
03 - Whisk melted butter, honey or maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth.
04 - Add wet mixture to dry ingredients and stir until just combined, forming a slightly crumbly but cohesive dough.
05 - Fold in dried cranberries, nuts, and orange zest if used.
06 - Reserve 3/4 cup of the mixture for the topping; press the remaining mixture firmly into the pan.
07 - Evenly distribute reserved crumble over the base, press gently to adhere, then bake for 28 to 32 minutes until golden and set.
08 - Allow to cool completely in the pan before removing and cutting into 12 bars.
