Sweet & Tart Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe – Irresistible Joy

Sweet crumbles meet tart cranberry magic in these irresistible cranberry crumble pie bars.

Bursting with seasonal flavor, these delectable treats blend buttery crust with vibrant fruit.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of crisp texture and bright, tangy notes.

Warm spices weave through the layers, creating a dessert that feels like a cozy autumn embrace.

The crumbly topping adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft, jammy cranberry filling.

Simple ingredients transform into an impressive dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.

A Cranberry Crumble Bar to Brighten Any Table

• Whip Up Seasonal Comfort: These bars capture the cozy essence of fall and winter with their vibrant cranberry filling and buttery crumble topping, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.
• Simplify Dessert Prep: With basic pantry ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create a delicious homemade treat without complex techniques or specialized equipment.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Great for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or casual weekend desserts, these bars offer a delightful balance of tart cranberries and sweet crumbly base that appeals to all ages.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare these bars in advance, store them easily, and enjoy a stress-free dessert option that maintains its delicious texture and flavor for several days.

All the Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundational dry ingredient that provides structure for the pie bars.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
• Brown Sugar: Contributes deep caramel-like flavor and moisture to the crumble.
• Baking Powder: Helps the crust rise and become light and tender.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the pie bars.

• Fresh Cranberries: Provide tart and vibrant fruity flavor for the pie bars.
• Orange Juice: Adds brightness and helps soften the cranberries.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings warm, rich undertones to the cranberry filling.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the cranberry mixture and create a smooth consistency.

• Unsalted Butter: Melts to bind the crumble together and adds rich, golden flavor to the crust and topping.

Steps to Build Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Crank up the oven to a toasty 350°F.

Grab your 9×13-inch pan and line it with parchment paper, creating a smooth surface for your delightful bars.

Step 2: Create Crumbly Base

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt

Pour in melted butter and mix until the mixture transforms into delectable crumbs that will form your pie bar foundation.

Step 3: Form the Crust

Press half of the crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even, compact base that will support your cranberry goodness.

Step 4: Craft Cranberry Filling

• Fresh cranberries
• Orange juice
• Vanilla extract
• Cornstarch

Cook the mixture, stirring gently until cranberries burst and the filling thickens into a luscious, vibrant sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Top

Pour the warm cranberry filling over the prepared crust.

Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture across the top, creating a rustic, tempting surface.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.

Watch for a golden-brown transformation that signals your bars are ready.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.

Once cooled, slice into squares and serve these tangy, sweet treats that promise pure delight.

Bar-Baking Success: Tips for Cranberry Crumble Perfection

• Press the crumb mixture firmly into the pan to create a solid, compact base that resists moisture from the cranberry filling.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest to the crumble mixture for a warm, citrusy undertone that complements the tart cranberries.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat slices and help the filling set properly.
• Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
• Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top for extra crunch and nutritional benefits.

New Flavors for Your Cranberry Crumble Bars

• Gluten-Free Berry Bars: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend flour to accommodate celiac or gluten-sensitive diets.
• Vegan Cranberry Crunch: Swap butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of sugar for plant-based version.
• Low-Sugar Fruit Bars: Substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener and use fresh cranberries to reduce overall sugar content.
• Seasonal Fruit Swap: Replace cranberries with fresh blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries for a year-round fruity dessert option.

Serving Cranberry Crumble Bars in Style

• Holiday Gift Delights: Package these bars in festive cellophane bags tied with rustic twine for a charming homemade present during Christmas or Thanksgiving gatherings.
• Brunch Companion: Serve these bars alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea, creating a delightful morning treat that pairs perfectly with creamy yogurt or light whipped cream.
• Dessert Platter Elegance: Arrange the bars on a beautiful wooden board with scattered fresh cranberries and mint leaves, making a stunning centerpiece for holiday dessert tables or potluck events.
• Seasonal Topping Magic: Enhance the bars with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze to elevate their visual appeal and add an extra layer of sweetness.

Keeping Cranberry Crumble Bars Fresh

• Store cooled bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover with plastic wrap or lid to prevent drying out.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Warm individual bars for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and add additional 5-second intervals if needed to avoid overheating.
• Place bars on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and warm at 325°F for 10-12 minutes. Remove foil for the last 2 minutes to restore crispness.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just thaw and drain them before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

• How do I know when the cranberry mixture is the right consistency?

The mixture is ready when cranberries burst and the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes of cooking.

• What can I do if my crumble topping isn't getting crispy?

Ensure your butter is fully melted and thoroughly mixed with the dry ingredients. Also, spread the crumble evenly and bake until the top is golden brown.

• Is it necessary to use orange juice in the cranberry filling?

Orange juice adds depth and brightness to the cranberry flavor, but you can substitute with water or apple juice if needed.

Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 16 1x

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Description

Delightful cranberry crumble pie bars blend sweet and tart flavors in a irresistible dessert that sings of holiday cheer. Buttery crumble layers and rich cranberry filling promise a memorable treat for family gatherings and festive celebrations.

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Ingredients

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Base and Crumble Ingredients:

• 2 cups (480 ml) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Fruit Filling Ingredients:

• 3 cups (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking station by heating the oven to 350°F and lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Create a versatile crumble base by thoroughly blending dry ingredients, then incorporating melted butter until a loose, textured mixture forms.
3. Carefully distribute and firmly press half of the crumble mixture into the pan’s bottom, creating an even, compact foundation for the bars.
4. Transform cranberries into a rich filling by simmering with orange juice, vanilla, and cornstarch, gently cooking until berries burst and the mixture thickens to a jammy consistency.
5. Artfully spread the vibrant cranberry mixture across the prepared crust, ensuring complete and uniform coverage.
6. Elegantly scatter the remaining crumble mixture over the cranberry layer, creating a rustic, textured topping that will become golden and crisp during baking.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, watching for a beautiful golden-brown color that signals the perfect doneness.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, which helps them set and makes cutting into clean, precise squares easier.

Notes

• Swap out fresh cranberries for frozen if seasonal availability is limited, ensuring they’re thawed and drained before cooking.
• Reduce sugar content by using tart cranberries and adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
• Create gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour for a nutty, textured alternative.
• Enhance flavor profile by adding warm spices like cinnamon or cardamom to the crumble mixture for deeper complexity.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 16
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 45 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg