~ FESTIVE CRANBERRY GEMS ~ DELICIOUS!!

~ Festive Cranberry Gems ~ Delicious!! image

Provided by Cassie *

Time 40m

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 - 12 oz bag - ocean spray cranberries - thawed or frozen as they will be cooked
3/4 c sugar
3 Tbsp orange marmalade
1 tsp lemon zest
3 Tbsp water
CRUST AND TOPPING
1 1/2 c each - flour & quick cooking oats
1 c packed, brown sugar
10 Tbsp cold butter, cubed
1/2 tsp each - salt & baking powder
pinch cinnamon

Steps:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, stir together the cranberries, sugar, zest, marmalade and water. Bring to a boil and as the cranberries start to pop and cook, smash with a spoon against the inside of pan. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, stirring often. ( 8 - 10 minutes) Set aside to cool completely.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degree F. In food processor, add the flour, oats, baking powder, salt, brown sugar, cinnamon and butter. Pulse until combined and butter is completely incorporated. ( This can be done by hand as well. Place ingredients in a bowl and using a pastry blender, work in the butter until mix looks like coarse crumbs. )
3. Once cranberries are cool. Place foil into a 9 inch square pan with an overhang. Spray foil with nonstick cooking spray. Spread half the oat mixture into the bottom of pan and pat evenly.
4. Spread the cranberry mixture evenly over crust.
5. Sprinkle remaining crumbs evenly over the cranberries and press down lightly.
6. Bake for 25 minutes or until edges are starting to brown. Place on cooling rack and cool completely. Remove from pan using the overhanging foil. Cut into desired sized bars.
7. Great for dessert, breakfast or a snack on the run. Note: I think these would also be great if adding a few chopped nuts to the topping before adding.