Desserts

Cranberry Crumb Bars

Name: Cranberry Crumb Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, Cranberry Crumb Bars are a must-try treat. These buttery bars feature a soft, tender base, a vibrant cranberry filling, and a golden crumb topping that adds the perfect crunch in every bite. Ideal for holiday baking, family gatherings, or an easy make-ahead dessert, this recipe is both simple and incredibly satisfying. In this article, you’ll learn how to make Cranberry Crumb Bars step by step, with expert tips to achieve bakery-style results at home.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 9 bars
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 200
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 75mg

Why Make This Cranberry Crumb Bars

Cranberry crumb bars are a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy brunches, or satisfying snacks throughout the day. The combination of fresh or frozen cranberries with a buttery crumb mixture creates a texture that is both crunchy and soft. Each bite delivers a vibrant burst of berry flavor, complemented by the warmth of vanilla and the satisfying chew of oats. Not only are these bars simple to prepare, but they also fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma while baking, inviting everyone to indulge in a tasty treat.

How to Make Cranberry Crumb Bars

Creating these cranberry crumb bars is a straightforward process that doesn’t require advanced baking skills. You’ll start with the crumb mixture and then layer it with the vibrant cranberry filling. With just a few steps, you can whip up a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Mixing the Crumb Mixture

In a bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix these ingredients well to ensure even distribution.

Step 3: Incorporating the Butter

Mix in the softened butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. You can use your hands or a pastry cutter for this step, ensuring that the butter is well incorporated into the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Assembling the Base

Press half of this mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish. This will form the base layer for your bars.

Step 5: Preparing the Cranberry Filling

In another bowl, mix together the cranberries, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the cranberries are well-coated and the sugar begins to dissolve.

Step 6: Spreading the Cranberries

Spread the cranberry mixture evenly over the crust in the baking dish, ensuring every bite has that delicious berry flavor.

Step 7: Topping with Crumbles

Crumble the remaining oat mixture on top of the cranberries, covering them completely. This will create a nice crunchy topping that balances the tartness of the cranberries.

Step 8: Baking

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The smell will be irresistible as it bakes!

Step 9: Cooling

Allow the bars to cool before cutting them into squares. This resting period will help the bars set up nicely, making them easier to slice.

How to Serve Cranberry Crumb Bars

Serve these cranberry crumb bars warm, at room temperature, or chilled. They’re delectable on their own as a snack or dessert. For an extra touch, consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a fantastic addition to a holiday dessert platter.

How to Store Cranberry Crumb Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cranberry Crumb Bars

Feel free to substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture and added nutrients.
If you prefer a sweeter filling, increase the granulated sugar to taste based on the tartness of your cranberries.
You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumb mixture for added warmth and spice.
Make sure the butter is softened, as this allows for easier mixing and better crumb consistency.

Delicious Variations

Nuts: Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb mixture for added crunch.
Different Fruit: Swap cranberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different fruit forward dessert experience!
Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips in the filling for a sweet twist that complements the tart cranberries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries; just be sure to let them thaw and drain any excess moisture before use.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
How do I know when they are done baking?
The bars should be golden brown on top, and the filling will begin to bubble slightly at the edges.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance; just store them in an airtight container after they cool.
What’s the best way to cut the bars?
Use a sharp knife and cut them after they have completely cooled for clean edges.

Conclusion

Indulging in cranberry crumb bars is a delightful way to savor the season’s best flavors. Their sweet and tart contrast makes them a favorite for family gatherings or everyday treats. With their simple preparation and the flexibility to experiment with ingredients, they allow you to personalize each batch to your liking. So gather your ingredients, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade cranberry crumb bars! Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.