Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress, then this Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe is just what you need! These delightful bars combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with a buttery crumble on top, making them a fantastic treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party, these bars are bound to be the star of the show.

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is. With just one pan involved, cleanup is a breeze! Plus, they can easily be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time with loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal steps and only one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and tangy flavor appeals to both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake these bars in advance and store them for later; they taste just as good days after baking.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of citrus and cranberry creates an irresistible burst of flavor in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or an everyday dessert, these bars fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our cranberry crumble bars. You probably have many of these items in your pantry already!

For the Shortbread Crust

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 3 1/4 cups (405 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Cranberry Filling

• 2 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 2/3 cup (133 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Glaze

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 4 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Variations

One of the best things about this Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Mix berries: Combine cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry twist.
• Try different spices: Replace cinnamon with nutmeg or allspice for an exciting flavor change.
• Use lemon zest: Swap out orange zest for lemon zest to create a bright citrus note.

How to Make Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter and both sugars until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This step is vital as it helps create a tender shortbread crust. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed!

Step 2: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Add in your large egg and two teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until combined. This not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor profile. Remember to scrape down those bowl sides again!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures that everything is evenly distributed before adding them to your wet mixture.

Step 4: Form Dough

Add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture and mix just until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Be careful not to over-mix as we want our dough tender!

Step 5: Prepare Shortbread Base

Set aside roughly 2 cups of this dough loosely packed; we’ll use it later for topping. Press the remaining dough into an 8 x 8 baking pan lined with parchment paper. Use your hands or a flat measuring cup to get it nice and even—this forms our delicious base.

Step 6: Pre-Bake Crust

Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes until golden brown around the edges. This step helps set up our crust so it holds up against that juicy cranberry filling!

Step 7: Make Cranberry Filling

While your crust cools slightly, mix together cranberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, juice, and additional vanilla in a large bowl. Pour this vibrant mixture over your pre-baked crust—it’s going to be so good!

Step 8: Add Topping

Break up the reserved shortbread dough into smaller pieces using your hands. Sprinkle these pieces over the cranberry filling randomly—it allows those beautiful cranberries to peek through.

Step 9: Bake Again

Place back in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. Cover with aluminum foil during the last bit if it looks like it’s getting too dark—this keeps our crumble nice and golden without burning.

Step 10: Cool Before Glazing

Remove from oven when done and let it cool completely on a wire rack before adding that sweet vanilla glaze on top. Patience pays off here; you want those flavors to meld beautifully!

Now you’re ready to cut into squares and enjoy! These bars are perfect served warm or at room temperature—either way; they’re simply irresistible!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

Making these cranberry crumble bars is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries bring vibrant flavor and natural tartness to the bars. If using frozen, ensure they are thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in your filling.

• Don’t Over Mix the Dough: When mixing your ingredients, stop as soon as everything is combined. Over mixing can lead to tough bars instead of the soft, crumbly texture we desire.

• Line Your Pan with Parchment Paper: This simple step allows for easy removal of the bars once they’re baked. It also keeps your pan clean and makes slicing much easier!

• Let Them Cool Completely: Patience is key! Allowing the bars to cool fully before cutting gives them time to set up nicely, ensuring clean edges and that perfect crumble.

• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a slightly less sweet filling, feel free to reduce the sugar in the cranberry mixture. The tartness of the cranberries shines through beautifully with just a touch of sweetness.

How to Serve Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

These cranberry crumble bars are not only delicious but also beautiful when served! Here are some creative ways to present them and enhance their deliciousness.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of sifted powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that brightens up the presentation.
• Orange Zest: Sprinkle some fresh orange zest on top just before serving for a pop of color and an extra zing that complements the cranberry filling beautifully.
• Whipped Cream: Serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream (dairy-free options available) for an indulgent treat that balances the tartness of the cranberries.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with these warm bars, adding richness that contrasts beautifully with their tart flavor.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast to the richness of the crumble bars while enhancing your dessert theme with seasonal fruits.

• Hot Tea or Coffee: A warm beverage like herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee complements these bars perfectly, making them an ideal end to any meal or gathering.

• Cheese Platter: For something different, serve these bars alongside a selection of cheeses. The sharpness of certain cheeses balances well with the sweet-tart flavor profile of the cranberry filling.

Now that you have all these tips and suggestions, it’s time to whip up your batch of cranberry crumble bars! Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with family and friends during your next gathering or cozy night in.

Make Ahead and Storage

These cranberry crumble bars are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy them fresh throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cranberry crumble bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them chilled, refrigerate them, where they will last up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen bars, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm treat, reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe:

Can I use frozen cranberries for this cranberry crumble bars recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. There’s no need to thaw them before use; simply add them directly to your filling mixture.

How do I know when the cranberry crumble bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

What makes this cranberry crumble bars recipe so special?

This recipe combines a buttery shortbread crust with a tangy cranberry filling and is topped off with a sweet vanilla glaze. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion that calls for a delicious dessert!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe brings joy to your kitchen and delight to your taste buds! It’s such a wonderful treat that’s not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want something sweet at home, these bars are sure to impress. Enjoy making and indulging in every bite!