Marrie
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Post on Feb 03, 2025
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Almond Cranberry Bliss: A Festive Recipe for Every Occasion
The holidays are upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious and festive treat? This almond cranberry recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties. It's surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers a sophisticated flavor profile that will impress your guests. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 24 bars. Adjust quantities as needed.
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For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ½ cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
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For the Filling:
- 1 (14-ounce) package dried cranberries
- ½ cup almond butter (smooth or crunchy, your preference!)
- ½ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
Instructions: Making Your Almond Cranberry Magic
Step 1: Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour, rolled oats, and salt.
- Add the melted butter and maple syrup/honey. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough firmly into the prepared baking pan to create an even crust.
Step 2: Create the Cranberry Almond Filling:
- In a separate bowl, combine the dried cranberries, almond butter, maple syrup/honey, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
- Mix well until the cranberries are evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake:
- Spread the cranberry almond mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows the bars to firm up nicely.
Tips for Almond Cranberry Perfection:
- Toasting the Oats: For a deeper, nuttier flavor, toast the rolled oats in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the crust.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the amount of maple syrup/honey in both the crust and the filling.
- Adding Nuts: Chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts would make a fantastic addition to either the crust or the filling.
- Citrus Zest: A little orange or lemon zest would brighten up the flavor profile beautifully.
- Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Why This Almond Cranberry Recipe is a Winner:
This recipe offers a delicious combination of textures and flavors. The crunchy almond oat crust complements the chewy cranberries and creamy almond butter filling perfectly. It's a healthy alternative to traditional holiday treats, being naturally gluten-free and packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, it's incredibly versatile – perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a simple afternoon snack.
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Beyond the Recipe: Sharing the Joy
Don't forget to share your delicious creations with friends and family! Use social media to showcase your baking skills and inspire others to try this fantastic recipe. Use hashtags like #almondcranberrybliss #holidaybaking #glutenfreedesserts to connect with other baking enthusiasts. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
