Introduction to Cranberry Crumble Bars
Cranberry Crumble Bars are a delightful addition to any holiday spread, perfectly marrying the tartness of cranberries with a buttery crumble topping. As the holiday season approaches, these bars not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide a festive touch to gatherings, making them a seasonal favorite. The vibrant red of the cranberries is reminiscent of the warmth and joy of the festivities, capturing the essence of the season in each bite.
What sets these bars apart is the balance of flavors. The sweet and tart cranberry filling is elevated with a hint of orange zest, offering a refreshing twist that’s hard to resist. The crumbly, buttery crust complements the filling beautifully, making each bar a perfect blend of textures.
Moreover, they are simple to prepare, so anyone in the kitchen—whether a novice or a seasoned baker—can whip them up with ease. If you're interested in exploring more festive treats, check out King Arthur Baking for additional inspiration and holiday recipes. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into making these Cranberry Crumble Bars to add some cheer to your celebrations!
Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Bars
When it comes to crafting the perfect Cranberry Crumble Bars, every ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. Let’s break it down!
Essential Ingredients for Cranberry Filling
For the luscious cranberry filling, you'll need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: This is the star! Using fresh cranberries ensures vibrant color and taste.
- Zest of 1 orange: Adds a fragrant touch and extra zing.
- Juice of ½ an orange: The juice complements the tartness of the cranberries.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adjust as needed to balance the tart cranberries.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: This thickens the filling, preventing a soggy bar.
Key Components for the Crust and Topping
For that buttery, crumbly base and topping, gather:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Make sure to spoon and level for accuracy.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the crust to rise and become fluffy.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth.
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt: Enhances all flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup very cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes: Essential for achieving that delightful crumble.
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Binds everything together, contributing to the rich texture.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to create delicious Cranberry Crumble Bars that will shine during any gathering! Happy baking!
Step-by-step preparation of Cranberry Crumble Bars
Making Cranberry Crumble Bars is not just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of baked goods. Follow these simple steps to create a sweet treat that’ll impress your family and friends.
Gather and measure the ingredients
Before diving into cooking, gather all the ingredients. You’ll need:
- Cranberry filling: 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, zest and juice of ½ an orange, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch.
- Crust and topping: 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt, 1 cup very cold unsalted butter cut into cubes, and 1 large egg.
Take a moment to precisely measure everything—this ensures consistency and the best flavor.
Preheat the oven and prepare the baking pan
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to set the stage. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a 9 by 13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later on. Pro tip: Lightly grease the bottom of the pan first to help the parchment paper stick, making it easier to lift out your bars once they’re baked.
Prepare the cranberry filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and cornstarch. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You'll notice the cranberries start to burst and release their delicious juices. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool in a shallow bowl while you create the dough.
Make the crumbly dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the very cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It should look like small peas—this is key for that perfect crumble. Add the beaten egg and combine until you have a crumbly, somewhat dry dough. For those fancy kitchen tool lovers, you can also use a food processor for this step!
Assemble the bars for baking
Now comes the fun part! Take half of the dough and press it into the prepared baking pan to create a solid base. Spread the cooled cranberry filling evenly over this layer. Finally, crumble the remaining dough on top. It’s perfectly fine if it looks uneven—that rustic charm is part of its appeal!
Bake and cool the bars
Bake your Cranberry Crumble Bars for 40-50 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown. Once done, let them cool in the pan for at least 2 hours. This cooling time is crucial as it allows the bars to set, making them easier to slice. Trust me, the waiting will be worth it when you take that first bite!
Now, you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Cranberry Crumble Bars. They make for an excellent dessert at a holiday gathering or a cozy night in. Happy baking!
Variations on Cranberry Crumble Bars
Alternative Fruit Fillings
While the classic cranberry filling is hard to resist, consider swapping in other fruits for a delightful twist. Ripe blueberries, tart cherries, or even spiced apples can add a new flavor dimension. You can also mix and match—try pairing cranberries with diced apples or pears for a unique blend. Just adjust the sugar based on the fruit's tartness to keep that perfect balance!
Gluten-Free Options for the Crust
If you're looking to make your Cranberry Crumble Bars gluten-free, it's easy to do! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend like almond flour or a high-quality all-purpose gluten-free flour mix. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Not only will you cater to gluten-sensitive diners, but you'll also introduce new flavors and textures that are sure to impress!
For more tips on baking with alternative flours, check out this guide!
Cooking tips and notes for Cranberry Crumble Bars
Importance of cold butter for the crust
For the Cranberry Crumble Bars crust, using very cold butter is crucial. Cold butter creates a flaky texture that results in a beautifully crumbly crust. When the butter is cut into the dry ingredients, it should remain solid, preventing it from blending too seamlessly. A tip I love? Freeze the butter the night before to ensure it’s perfectly chilled when you're ready to bake. This small step makes a world of difference in texture!
Recommended storage methods for leftovers
When it comes to storing your Cranberry Crumble Bars, keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to enjoy them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Just be sure to let them cool completely first! Feeling adventurous? You can also freeze them for up to three months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature. This way, you can savor the delightful tartness anytime!
Serving suggestions for Cranberry Crumble Bars
Perfect accompaniments for cranberry crumble bars
Cranberry Crumble Bars are a delightful treat on their own, but pairing them can elevate your dessert experience. For a cozy touch, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The creaminess beautifully balances the tartness of the cranberries. Alternatively, drizzle a bit of homemade caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of sweetness. For a lightened option, whipped Greek yogurt mixed with honey could bring a refreshing contrast.
Ideas for presentation during gatherings
When entertaining, presentation is key! Slice your Cranberry Crumble Bars into neat squares and dust them with powdered sugar for a charming finish. Arrange them on a colorful platter alongside small bowls of fresh berries and mint leaves for a touch of elegance. Adding a simple label, such as "Holiday Treats," can invite guests to indulge. Furthermore, consider placing the bars within wax paper sleeves for easy grab-and-go bites during a festive gathering.
Additional tips
To really make the most of your presentation, comfortable serving platters are worth investing in. Consider checking out services like Etsy for unique and handmade serving dishes.
With these ideas, you’ll not only enhance your dessert's appeal but also create an inviting atmosphere for your friends and family to enjoy!
Time breakdown for making Cranberry Crumble Bars
Preparation time
Getting started on your Cranberry Crumble Bars takes about 20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and preparing the cranberry filling.
Cooking time
Let your bars bake to perfection for 40-50 minutes. You'll want them golden brown and oh-so-delicious!
Total time
From prep to cooling, the entire process will take approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. This includes cooling time, so plan to enjoy them after a little wait!
Creating these bars is a rewarding endeavor that brings a delightful holiday flavor to your table. For extra tips on perfecting your baking, check out Food Network's baking tips. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Crumble Bars
Calories per Serving
Each serving of the Cranberry Crumble Bars packs about 257 calories. With 18 squares in total, these bars offer a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard on calories.
Key Nutrition Highlights
These scrumptious bars not only taste fantastic but also provide some nutritional benefits:
- Carbohydrates: 38g, giving you the energy boost you might need.
- Protein: 3g, contributing to your daily intake, especially for those on the go.
- Healthy Fats: 11g, primarily from the butter, essential for your body.
- Sugar: 20g, ensuring the perfect balance of sweetness.
For more in-depth nutritional info, consider checking out reputable sources like the USDA for a detailed breakdown. These Cranberry Crumble Bars can be enjoyed as a dessert that fits well within a balanced diet, making them a delightful treat for any occasion!
FAQs about Cranberry Crumble Bars
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! Using frozen cranberries works wonderfully in these cranberry crumble bars. Simply toss them in straight from the freezer—there’s no need to thaw. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on them to ensure the filling is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
How do I store leftover bars?
To keep your cranberry crumble bars fresh, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge where they will last for about a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly!
What can I serve with cranberry crumble bars?
These bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a cozy twist, try serving them with a warm cup of chai tea or hot cocoa. Your friends and family will love this delightful contrast of flavors!
Conclusion on Cranberry Crumble Bars
Cranberry crumble bars are a delightful treat that balance sweet and tart flavors. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, they’re sure to impress! With their crumbly texture and easy preparation, these bars are a fantastic addition to your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every bite!
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out this helpful guide to elevate your baking game.
Cranberry Crumble Bars
Equipment
- Food processor
- pastry blender
- 9 by 13 inch baking pan
- parchment paper
Ingredients
Cranberry filling
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 large orange zest
- 0.5 cups orange juice
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar plus more to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Crust and topping
- 3 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter VERY cold, cut into cubes (2 standard sticks)
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line a 9 by 13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. Lightly grease the bottom of the pan first to help the parchment paper stay in place.
- In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Mix to combine. Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring, until the cranberries start breaking down. Remove from heat and transfer to a shallow bowl. Let it cool while you make the dough.
- In a large bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Using a pastry blender or with your fingers, cut in the cold butter into the dry ingredients until you get pea-sized crumbles. Stir in the beaten egg and mix until a very crumbly dough forms.
- Place half of the dough on the prepared baking pan. Press down to form a compact layer. Spread the cranberry filling evenly over. Top with the remaining crumbly dough evenly.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for 2 hours, and then cut into squares. Enjoy!
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