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Cranberry Crumb Bars

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There’s something magical about the combination of tart cranberries and sweet, crumbly topping that makes Cranberry Crumb Bars a favorite treat. Not only is this dessert a feast for the eyes with its vibrant red filling and golden topping, but it also delivers a delightful balance of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for gatherings, holiday festivities, or an everyday treat, these bars offer a cozy home-baked feel that’s hard to resist.

Why Make This Cranberry Crumb Bars

Cranberry Crumb Bars are not just a delicious dessert; they are also incredibly easy to make! This recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, yet the results are sophisticated enough for any occasion. The bright cranberry filling combined with a buttery crumb topping creates an irresistible treat that’s great for serving at parties, holiday events, or simply enjoying with friends over coffee. Plus, these bars can be made ahead of time, making them a go-to choice for busy bakers.

How to Make Cranberry Crumb Bars

Making Cranberry Crumb Bars is as simple as gathering your ingredients and following a few straightforward steps. You’ll create a buttery crust, layer it with tart cranberries mixed with brown sugar and spices, then top it off with a crumbly oat topping. In no time, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress family and friends!

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Mix in the flour and salt until combined. Reserve half of this mixture for the topping.
Press the remaining half into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Make sure to pack it down well for a sturdy base!
In another bowl, combine the cranberries, brown sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Make sure the cranberries are well-coated in the mixture before spreading it evenly over the crust.
To the reserved crumb mixture, add the rolled oats and chopped nuts (if using). Crumble this mixture evenly over the cranberry layer, allowing it to create a lovely topping.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and starts to bubble slightly around the edges.
Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars. This step is important to let the filling set!

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 16 servings):

Calories: 210
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 60mg
Total Carbohydrates: 31g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 15g
Protein: 2g

How to Serve Cranberry Crumb Bars

Cranberry Crumb Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways! They’re perfect as a holiday dessert, alongside your favorite cup of tea or coffee, or even as a sweet breakfast treat. Consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.

How to Store Cranberry Crumb Bars

Store your Cranberry Crumb Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. If freezing, be sure to wrap each bar individually to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cranberry Crumb Bars

Use fresh cranberries for a brighter, more vibrant flavor, but frozen cranberries work perfectly well too. Just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
If you prefer a sweeter filling, increase the brown sugar slightly, especially if using tart cranberries.
Try adding in a teaspoon of orange zest to the cranberry mixture for a refreshing citrus twist.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the bars slice better and hold their shape.

Delicious Variations

Nut-Free Version: Leave out the chopped nuts in the topping for a simpler bar.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend, ensuring the cornstarch is gluten-free as well.
Fruity Twist: Mix in chopped apples or blueberries with the cranberries for a mixed berry flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes! If you choose to use canned cranberries, make sure to drain them well and adjust sugar levels to taste, as they can be sweeter than fresh.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter to make the recipe dairy-free. Keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change.
How do I know when they are done baking?
The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges. You can also insert a toothpick into the crumb topping; it should come out clean with a few crumbs attached.

Conclusion

Cranberry Crumb Bars are a delightful combination of flavor and texture, sure to brighten any dessert table. They’re simple to make, beautiful to present, and offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart that everyone loves. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your baking experience with friends and family! Happy baking!