Cranberry Oatmeal Brownies
Cranberry Oatmeal Brownies combine chewy oats with tart cranberry sauce, creating a sweet, tangy treat perfect for fall gatherings or as a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat shortening, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, water, and vanilla together until creamy.
- Add sifted all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda; stir well to combine.
- Preheat oven and grease a large cookie sheet.
- Spread the dough into the cookie sheet, pressing it to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Spread cranberry sauce over the dough, keeping it within 1 inch of the edges.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. If you're out of cranberry sauce, homemade sauce can be made by simmering fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar and water until thickened. You can also substitute half of the quick oats with rolled oats for a different texture. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the granulated sugar slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies are delightful on their own but can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, drizzle with chocolate sauce or serve alongside a fresh fruit salad, like the one in Tangy Pasta And Cheese Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week. To reheat, warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Oatmeal Brownies contains roughly 386 calories, with 4g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 760mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. Cook them down with sugar and a bit of water until they burst and thicken, making a homemade cranberry sauce. This will add a fresh flavor and allow you to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
For an egg substitute, you can use a flaxseed meal by mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This will work well in binding the brownies and is a great option for vegan diets.
How can I make these brownies more chocolatey?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, you can add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the batter. If using cocoa powder, reduce the flour by a couple of tablespoons to maintain the right consistency. This addition will create a deliciously rich brownie.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).