Christmas Cranberry Date Bars

For the filling: Combine cranberries and dates in a medium saucepan. Cook uncovered over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 15 minutes or until cranberries pop. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

In a large mixing bowl stir together flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in melted butter until well blended. Divide mixture in half and spread over the bottom of a 13×9″ baking pan. Bake at 350F for about 8 minutes.

Carefully spread cranberry filling over the baked crust. Sprinkle remaining oat mixture on top. Pat down gently. Bake for another 20 minutes until golden. Cool on a wire wrack.

For the glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla, and orange juice together to reach a drizzling consistency.

Drizzle cooled pan with glaze and cut into bars. Enjoy and Merry Christmas!