Introduction to Cranberry Crumble Bars
Why Cranberry Crumble Bars are the Ultimate Homemade Snack
Are you in search of a delightful treat that balances sweet and tart flavors perfectly? Look no further! Cranberry crumble bars are your answer. They combine a rich, buttery shortbread crust with a vibrant cranberry filling, making them a superb alternative to traditional pies. These bars are not only simple to whip up but also make for an impressive dish to serve at gatherings or cozy nights in.
What makes these bars so special? The combination of fresh or frozen cranberries, a hint of orange zest, and a drizzle of sweet vanilla glaze transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary snack. Plus, they’re baked in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, you'll find this recipe friendly and approachable.
And let's not forget the best part: Cranberry crumble bars are perfect for sharing! Slice them into squares and watch your friends and family delight in every bite. If you're interested in how these bars can add a touch of festivity to your table, check out this great article on the benefits of baking. So, are you ready to dive into the joy of baking? Grab your apron, and let's get started!
Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Bars
When it comes to making delicious cranberry crumble bars, having the right ingredients is key! Here’s what you’ll need for each component of these delightful treats.
Shortbread Crust Ingredients
To create a buttery base that complements the tartness of cranberries, gather:
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed for a touch of caramel flavor
- 1 large egg, also at room temperature for better mixing
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to infuse sweetness
- 3 ¼ cups (405 g) all-purpose flour, measured correctly
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder for a bit of lift
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon to warm it up
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt to enhance flavors
Cranberry Filling Ingredients
This filling is where the magic truly happens! You'll need:
- 2 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries for that delightful tartness
- ⅔ cup (133 g) granulated sugar to balance the acidity
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch for thickening
- 1 tablespoon orange zest for a bright hint of citrus
- 1 tablespoon orange juice for extra flavor depth
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to tie it all together
Vanilla Glaze Ingredients
To top off your cranberry crumble bars, prepare the finishing touch:
- ¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted for a smooth glaze
- 4 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream to achieve that perfect consistency
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for added sweetness
With these ingredients on hand, you’ll create cranberry crumble bars that are sure to impress friends and family! If you're interested in some variations, feel free to check out this guide for all things cranberry in baking.
Preparing Cranberry Crumble Bars
Creating cranberry crumble bars in your kitchen is not only satisfying but also an exciting way to indulge in the flavors of the season. Follow along step by step to whip up these delicious treats that are sure to impress your friends and family!
Cream the Butter and Sugars
Start with the foundation of your bars – the crust! In a mixing bowl, blend together 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of packed light brown sugar. Utilize a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, and beat this mixture on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes, until it’s light and fluffy. Scraping down the sides occasionally helps ensure everything is blended well. This process incorporates air into the butter, creating a beautiful texture.
Mix in the Egg and Vanilla
Next, it’s time to add some flavorful magic! Add 1 large egg, along with 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, into the creamed mixture. Mix until these ingredients are well incorporated. Can you smell that? The vanilla brings such warmth; it’s like a hug for your senses!
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Is there anything better than the scent of cinnamon? Once combined, gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet mix, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as that could lead to tougher bars!
Prep the Shortbread Crust
Now for the fun part—layering that crust! Reserve about 2 cups of the dough for the topping later, then spread the remaining portion evenly into an 8x8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Use your hands or a flat measuring cup to ensure it’s pressed firmly into the corners. Bake this crust at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until it’s just set and slightly golden brown.
Make the Cranberry Filling
While the crust cools, let’s whip up the tart filling! In a mixing bowl, combine 2½ cups of fresh or frozen cranberries with ⅔ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, 1 tablespoon of orange juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Mixing these ingredients will awaken the cranberries and create that delicious chewy filling!
Assemble and Bake
Pour the cranberry filling over your cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Use your fingers to break up the reserved dough into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over the filling. The technique gives you a beautiful crumble texture. Bake for 45 minutes, covering with foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
While those bars are baking, let’s prepare a vanilla glaze to drizzle on top. Simply whisk together ¾ cup of powdered sugar, 4 tablespoons of whole milk or heavy cream, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla until you achieve a smooth and pourable consistency. Adjust with more milk or sugar as necessary!
Once the bars are completely cooled, drizzle that delightful glaze on top, slice them into squares, and serve. Enjoy the burst of cranberry flavors wrapped in buttery goodness—these cranberry crumble bars are bound to become a go-to dessert in your kitchen!
Variations on Cranberry Crumble Bars
Seasonal Variations
Cranberry crumble bars are perfect for holiday gatherings, but you can easily switch things up with seasonal fruits! In the spring, try using strawberries or rhubarb for a fresh twist. Summer is ideal for blueberries or peaches, while fall brings great opportunities for apples or pumpkins. Each option will give your bars a unique flavor profile, so feel free to experiment!
Ingredient Swaps
Getting creative with your ingredients can elevate your cranberry crumble bars. Swap in maple syrup for granulated sugar for a caramel-like flavor, or use oat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a hearty texture. Need a nutty crunch? Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping. The possibilities are endless! For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cranberry Crumble Bars
Storage Tips
To keep your cranberry crumble bars fresh, store them tightly covered at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to prolong their life, freeze them before adding the vanilla glaze. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Make-ahead Suggestions
These bars are perfect for prepping ahead of time! You can make the shortbread crust and cranberry filling a day in advance, then assemble and bake when you're ready to serve. If you're hosting a gathering, this method helps save time, allowing you to focus on other dishes or enjoy the company of your guests. For more tips on preserving delicious baked goods, check out this guide.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Crumble Bars
When to Serve
These delightful cranberry crumble bars are perfect for a variety of occasions. Consider serving them during the holidays, at family gatherings, or even as a special treat on a cozy weekend afternoon. They make an excellent addition to potlucks or brunches, offering a sweet yet tart flavor that guests will love.
Pairing Ideas
Elevate your cranberry crumble bars by pairing them with options like:
- Fresh whipped cream for added creaminess
- Vanilla ice cream to create a delightful contrast
- A nice cup of chai tea or herbal tea for a warm beverage option
- Top with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor
For more inspiration, check out this recipe from Food Network that complements tart flavors beautifully!
Time Breakdown for Cranberry Crumble Bars
Preparation Time
Getting started on your cranberry crumble bars is quick and easy! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix up that delicious shortbread crust with the aromatic cranberry filling. Perfect for when you're in a time crunch!
Cooking Time
Once your bars are prepped, they need about 60 minutes in the oven. This allows the scrumptious aroma to fill your kitchen while achieving that golden, crusty top that's oh-so-satisfying.
Total Time
In just 75 minutes, you’ll have delectable cranberry crumble bars ready to share (or keep all to yourself!). From prep to cool, it’s the perfect time investment for a delightful treat any time of year!
For more cooking tips, check out Serious Eats on how to perfect your baking techniques. Enjoy!
Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Crumble Bars
When making cranberry crumble bars, it's essential to know the nutrition you'll be enjoying in each delightful square. Here's a quick breakdown:
Calories
Each bar contains approximately 180 calories, making it a sweet treat that can fit into your daily intake.
Carbohydrates
These bars pack about 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving, providing energy for your day.
Sugar Content
With around 10 grams of sugar, these bars balance sweetness with tart cranberry flavor, delivering a deliciously satisfying dessert option.
By being mindful of these nutritional aspects, you can indulge in cranberry crumble bars while keeping your health goals in check. For more information about healthy eating, check out the latest dietary guidelines from the American Heart Association.
FAQ about Cranberry Crumble Bars
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones in these delicious cranberry crumble bars. Just be mindful that they may release a bit more moisture during baking, so you might want to add a touch more cornstarch in the filling to help thicken it up. Plus, using frozen cranberries makes this recipe accessible year-round!
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are light golden brown and the center is slightly set. If you’re unsure, try gently shaking the pan; a slight jiggle in the center means they need more time. Don’t forget to cover the top with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes to prevent over-browning!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your cranberry crumble bars fresh, store them tightly covered at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them before adding the glaze. Just let them thaw at room temperature, drizzle with glaze, and enjoy! For more storage tips, check out this helpful guide on food storage.
Conclusion on Cranberry Crumble Bars
These cranberry crumble bars are the perfect intersection of sweetness and tartness, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup, they're sure to impress your friends and family. Get ready to bake, share, and enjoy the holiday spirit with every delicious bite!
Cranberry Crumble Bars
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- 8 x 8 baking pan
- measuring cup
- whisk
- wire rack
Ingredients
Shortbread Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Cranberry Filling
- 2 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Vanilla Glaze
- ¾ cup powdered sugar sifted
- 4 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
Preparation
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Add the egg and vanilla, mixing to combine well. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients and mix just until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Do not over mix.
- Set aside roughly 2 cups of the dough (loosely packed) and reserve to use on the top of the crumble.
- Press the shortbread dough into an 8 x 8 baking pan lined with parchment paper. Use your hands or the flat side of a measuring cup to press it evenly into the corners of the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden brown and the center is just set. Do not over bake.
- Remove the pan from the oven and allow the crust to cool slightly while you make the cranberry filling.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cranberries, sugar, cornstarch, orange zest and juice and vanilla. Pour the cranberry mixture over the pre-baked crust.
- Use your hands to break up the remaining 2 cups of shortbread dough into smaller, flat pieces. Place them randomly on top of the cranberry filling, leaving space between them for the cranberries to peak through.
- Bake for about 45 minutes, covering the top of the pan with aluminum foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking time so that the crumble does not turn too dark.
- Remove the bars from the oven. Place the pan on a wire rack and cool completely before adding the vanilla glaze.
- Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or heavy cream) and vanilla. Drizzle over the top of the bars once cooled.
- Slice into squares.
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