Introduction to Cranberry Crumble Bars
Looking for a delicious treat that fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle? Cranberry Crumble Bars might just be your answer. These bars not only combine the tartness of cranberries with a perfectly buttery crumble, but they're also an excellent go-to for young professionals eager to impress at gatherings without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Cranberry Crumble Bars are Perfect for Busy Lives
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Quick Prep: With just 20 minutes needed to whip up the dough and filling, these bars fit perfectly into your after-work schedule. They can be assembled quickly, leaving you with more time to unwind.
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Easy Storage: Once baked, you can store them at room temperature or in the fridge for a week. This makes them an ideal snack option for busy weekday mornings or surprise guests.
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Versatile Treat: The balancing act of sweet and tart means they work as a dessert, a breakfast treat, or even a midday snack—all while being sophisticated enough for potlucks or holiday gatherings.
Remember, these bars can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness without the last-minute rush. For more tips on effortless entertaining, check out sources like Bon Appétit and Food Network. Treat yourself to these Cranberry Crumble Bars, and elevate your dessert game!
Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Bars
When it comes to crafting the perfect Cranberry Crumble Bars, selecting the right ingredients makes all the difference. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need.
Key Ingredients for the Cranberry Filling
For a deliciously tangy and sweet cranberry filling, you'll need:
- 4 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide the best flavor, but frozen work just as well.
- Zest and juice of 1 orange: This adds a lovely citrus twist that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adjust to taste based on the tartness of your cranberries.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: This helps thicken the filling, giving it the right consistency.
Essential Components for the Crust and Topping
The crust and topping are what make these bars so irresistible. Gather these essential ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Spooned and leveled for precise measurements.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetness balances the tartness of the filling.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: For that nice rise and light texture.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon and Kosher salt: Adds warmth and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup VERY cold unsalted butter: Cut into cubes; this is critical for achieving that perfect crumble.
- 1 large egg: This acts as a binder, helping to bring the dough together.
By paying attention to these ingredients, you’re setting yourself up for success in making the best Cranberry Crumble Bars. Want to learn more about baking basics? Check out this guide!
Preparing Cranberry Crumble Bars
Making Cranberry Crumble Bars is a delightful experience that combines the vibrant tartness of cranberries with a buttery, crumbly texture. Whether you're serving these treats at a holiday gathering or simply enjoying them as an everyday snack, the following steps will guide you seamlessly through the process.
Gather your equipment and ingredients
Before diving into the baking adventure, it's essential to have all your tools and ingredients ready. Here's what you'll need:
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Equipment:
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Food processor
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Pastry blender
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9 by 13 inch baking pan
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Parchment paper
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Ingredients:
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Cranberry filling: 4 cups cranberries, zest and juice of 1 orange, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch.
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Crust and topping: 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, 1 cup very cold unsalted butter, and a lightly beaten egg.
Having everything ready will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable!
Make the cranberry filling
Start by creating the filling, as it needs a little time to cool while you prep the crust. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange zest, and juice, along with sugar and cornstarch. Heat over medium warmth, stirring gently for about 5 minutes until some cranberries break down, creating a lovely mixture. Once ready, transfer it to a bowl and let it cool. The citrus notes from the orange will beautifully enhance the fruity zing of the cranberries, making for an incredible flavor profile.
Prepare the crust and topping
Next up is the crust and topping, which is super simple but crucial for that signature crumble. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the very cold butter until you achieve a texture resembling pea-sized crumbles. Don't worry if the mixture seems a bit dry; it’s all part of the deliciousness! You can also use a food processor for this step, making it even quicker.
Assemble your bars
With your filling and dough ready, it's time to layer everything! Press half of the crumbly dough into your parchment-lined pan, creating an even base. Spread the cranberry filling on top, ensuring it covers every corner, and then sprinkle the remaining dough over the filling. This will create a beautiful, textured top that bakes perfectly.
Bake and cool the bars
Now for the exciting part—baking! Preheat your oven to 375°F and place your assembled bars in for about 40-50 minutes. You’re looking for that golden-brown color on top! Once baked, allow them to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Patience is key here, as the cooling time helps the bars set up perfectly.
And there you have it! Your Cranberry Crumble Bars are ready to be enjoyed. Pair them with a nice cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat any time of day.
Variations on Cranberry Crumble Bars
Seasonal Fruit Variations
While cranberries shine as the star ingredient, feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits! You can swap out cranberries for cherries, blueberries, or raspberries to make delightful crumble bars that suit any occasion. For a tropical twist, consider using mangoes or pineapples—just adjust the sweetness to match the fruit’s natural flavor!
Alternative Sweeteners and Toppings
Switching up the sweeteners can make your Cranberry Crumble Bars a healthier treat. Try using maple syrup or coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness. When it comes to toppings, why not sprinkle on some chopped nuts or toasted coconut for an added crunch? Just imagine tasting those chewy cranberries paired with a nutty crumble—heavenly!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cranberry Crumble Bars
Importance of Cold Butter
For the best Cranberry Crumble Bars, remember that using very cold butter is crucial. Cold butter helps create a flaky, tender crust by preventing gluten development. It ensures that the butter stays solid during mixing, which creates those delightful crumbly pieces. If you can, freeze your butter sticks a few hours before you start baking.
Pre-Baking Tips
While pre-baking isn't necessary, doing so for 15-20 minutes at 350°F can yield a crispier bottom crust. This is particularly beneficial if you enjoy a firmer base. If using parchment paper, as mentioned in the recipe, it prevents sticking and aids in easy removal once baked. A little preparation goes a long way in achieving the perfect Cranberry Crumble Bars!
Serving suggestions for Cranberry Crumble Bars
Enjoying with coffee or tea
There’s nothing quite like savoring Cranberry Crumble Bars alongside your favorite hot beverage. The tartness of the cranberries pairs beautifully with a robust cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea. Try a spiced chai for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up or a rich dark roast for a delightful contrast. Don’t forget to add a little dollop of whipped cream on top for that extra indulgence!
Creative serving ideas for events
Planning a gathering? Cranberry Crumble Bars are a fantastic addition to any dessert table. Consider layering them on a beautiful cake stand or arranging them in a decorative box for a charming homemade touch. For a holiday event, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a festive look, or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm orange sauce for a twist that guests will love. Perfect for sharing and sure to impress!
Time Breakdown for Cranberry Crumble Bars
When you're craving Cranberry Crumble Bars, timing is everything. Here's a quick breakdown to help you plan your baking session seamlessly.
Preparation Time
The preparation starts with about 20 minutes of gathering ingredients and mixing the filling and dough. Ensure you have everything ready!
Baking Time
Next up, the baking essentials take about 40 to 50 minutes. Your kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering aroma as those bars turn golden brown.
Cooling Time
Finally, patience is key during the 2-hour cooling period. This step allows the bars to set properly, making them easier to cut.
By keeping track of these times, you'll whip up a delicious batch of Cranberry Crumble Bars perfectly every time! For more baking tips, check out Food Network's Baking Basics.
Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Crumble Bars
Calories per Serving
Each serving of these tasty Cranberry Crumble Bars packs about 257 calories. This makes them a delightful treat that won’t derail your healthy eating goals, especially during the festive season.
Key Nutritional Components
Here’s a quick look at what you'll find in these delicious bars:
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 11g (of which 7g are saturated fats)
- Sugar: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
Packed with essential nutrients and a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, these bars are sure to become a favorite! If you're curious about the benefits of cranberries, check out this resource from the USDA. For extra sustenance, consider pairing your bar with a scoop of yogurt or a glass of almond milk.
So, are you ready to indulge in a little wholesome sweetness? These Cranberry Crumble Bars are perfect for snacking or dessert!
FAQs about Cranberry Crumble Bars
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake these Cranberry Crumble Bars the day before serving. Just let them cool completely before covering them tightly at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
How do I store cranberry crumble bars?
To keep your Cranberry Crumble Bars fresh, store them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you're looking to prolong their life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Don’t forget you can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to let them thaw in the fridge overnight or on the countertop for a perfect treat!
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries for this recipe! They work just as well as fresh cranberries, offering a lovely tartness for the filling. Be sure to add a bit of extra cooking time to ensure they're heated through and softened.
For more tips on storing and using cranberries, check out this resource that delves deeper into their versatility!
Conclusion on Cranberry Crumble Bars
In conclusion, Cranberry Crumble Bars are an ideal dessert for any occasion, especially during the holidays. Their delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, combined with a buttery crust, makes them an irresistible treat. Easy to make and even easier to share, they’re sure to impress!
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 whole orange zest
- ½ cups juice of an orange
- ¾ 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
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter VERY cold, cut into cubes (2 standard sticks)
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
Instructions
Preparation
- 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, freshly squeezed 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 your fingers, cut in the cold butter into the dry ingredients until you get pea-sized crumbles. Then, stir in the beaten egg and mix until a very crumbly dough forms. It will seem dry.
- 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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