Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert: 5 Steps to Blissful Indulgence

Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. These bars feature a luscious cranberry filling nestled between a buttery oat crumble, making them an irresistible dessert option. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into making these delicious treats!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert

There are countless reasons to adore this cranberry dessert. First, the combination of flavors is simply divine, with the tartness of cranberries beautifully complemented by a buttery crumble. Second, they are incredibly easy to make—perfect for a quick dessert. Third, these bars can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making them versatile for any occasion. Fourth, they’re a healthier alternative to many desserts, especially if you opt for the healthy cranberry crumb bars with oats variation. Fifth, they can be made gluten-free or even vegan, accommodating various dietary needs. Finally, these bars are visually stunning, making them a showstopper at any gathering!

Ingredients for Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert

Gather these items:

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups (224g) rolled oats
• 1 cup (198g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (213g) brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 ½ cup (339g) unsalted butter, melted
• 5 cups (about 500g) fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 ¼ cup (248g) granulated sugar for filling
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1 Tbsp orange zest
• 3 Tbsp orange juice

How to Make Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir to combine. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture looks evenly moistened and crumbly. Use your hands to combine the mixture into a big clump.
3. Step 3: Press about two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base.
4. Step 4: In another bowl, make the filling: combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, and orange juice. Stir until the cranberries are evenly coated. Spread the filling over the crust.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the top of the cranberry layer. I like to squeeze the crumb mixture into a ball and then break pieces off to cover the cranberries.
6. Step 6: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
7. Step 7: Allow the bars to cool completely for several hours before slicing. If you cut them while warm, they’ll be soft and won’t hold their shape as well.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert

Keep these in mind:

• Use fresh or frozen cranberries for the filling.
• Let the bars cool completely for the best texture.
• For a unique twist, try adding nuts to the topping for extra crunch.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, consider making cranberry crumb bars with cream cheese.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert

These bars can be served in various delightful ways. First, enjoy them plain for a simple treat. Second, pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Third, consider drizzling with a little chocolate sauce or caramel for an extra layer of flavor. They’re perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays, when you can impress guests with these holiday cranberry crumb bars dessert.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert

To store, keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. This can also be a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these bars throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert?

The secret lies in allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing. Cutting them while warm can result in a crumbly mess instead of neat bars. This method ensures you achieve that perfect slice with the right texture.

Can I make Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance, making them a fantastic option for parties or gatherings. Just store them in an airtight container once cooled.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately and watch the baking time closely. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so keep an eye on those golden edges!

Variations of Cranberry Crumb Bars Dessert You Can Try

Get creative with these variations: First, try a vegan cranberry crumb bars recipe by substituting butter with coconut oil. Second, make gluten-free cranberry crumb bars by using gluten-free flour. Third, add a layer of cream cheese for a richer flavor. Lastly, incorporate oats for a hearty cranberry and oat crumb bars twist!

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you’re interested in a savory option, try our Persian Chicken Recipe or Fried Meatballs Romanian Chiftele. You can also explore Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo for a delightful meal.

For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, visit Healthline.

Print