Are you looking for a delicious dessert that perfectly balances tartness and sweetness? Cranberry crumble bars are the answer! These delightful treats feature a buttery crumble topping over a tangy cranberry filling, making them an ideal snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make cranberry crumble bars that everyone will love!

Ingredients List

To create your cranberry crumble bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: The star ingredient, providing tartness.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the filling.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the filling.

For the Crumble:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for the crumble.
• 1/2 cup rolled oats: Adds texture and chewiness.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Provides sweetness and moisture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the crumble rise.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumble together.

Substitutions:

• Gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
• Maple syrup can replace granulated sugar for a natural sweetener.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cranberries begin to burst and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix until crumbly. The mixture should hold together when pressed but still have a crumbly texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Press half of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the dish to form a base. Spread the cranberry filling evenly over the crumble layer. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the cranberry filling.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden brown. The filling should be bubbly.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for at least 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on a yield of 12 bars):

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 80mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 27g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 2g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your cranberry crumble bars a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Reduce sugar: Cut down on the sugar in the filling or use a sugar substitute.
• Add nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble for added healthy fats and protein.
• Use coconut oil: Substitute melted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions

These cranberry crumble bars are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With a dusting of powdered sugar: For a simple and elegant presentation.
• Served warm with vanilla ice cream: A delicious contrast to the tartness of the cranberries.
• Drizzled with caramel sauce: For an extra touch of sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making cranberry crumble bars:

• Not cooking the cranberry filling long enough: Ensure that the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens to avoid a runny filling.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the crumble topping; it should be golden brown but not burnt.
• Not letting them cool completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before slicing to maintain their shape.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your cranberry crumble bars fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

In summary, cranberry crumble bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines tart cranberries with a sweet, buttery crumble. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments or subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of cranberries?

Yes! You can substitute cranberries with blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix of fruits for a different flavor.

How can I make these bars vegan?

Use a plant-based butter substitute and replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a similar alternative.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the bars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.