Introduction to Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars are the perfect marriage of rich flavors and delightful textures, making them a must-try dessert for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a cozy night in, these bars promise to satisfy your sweet tooth with a luscious cranberry filling and a buttery, crumbly topping.
Why are these bars a standout treat? They elevate the traditional pie experience by delivering convenience and taste in a convenient square form. The buttery shortbread crust serves as a delicious base, while the tart cranberry filling brings a vibrant pop of color and flavor. Plus, you won't need to fuss with intricate pie crusts—instead, you’ll whip up the crust and crumble topping from the same mix, keeping your kitchen tidy.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. A light drizzle of orange icing adds a zesty kick that ties everything together beautifully. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or alongside your favorite tea, these Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars are bound to impress your friends and family. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a batch of treats that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
When it comes to Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars, having the right ingredients makes all the difference. Let's break it down!
Key Ingredients for the Crust
To create a buttery, flaky crust that holds everything together, you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: 3 cups (375g) gives the structure.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200g) for sweetness.
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon to help it rise.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon enhances flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon adds warmth.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (226g), cold and cubed, for that rich, creamy texture.
- Egg: 1 large egg binds it all together.
- Milk: ¼ cup (60ml) for moisture.
- Pure vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons to elevate your crust’s flavor.
Ingredients for the Cranberry Filling
Next up, the star of the show—the cranberry filling! You’ll require:
- Fresh or frozen cranberries: 4 cups (400g) provide that tart burst of flavor.
- Granulated sugar: ¾ cup (150g) sweetens the tartness.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon for thickening.
- Orange zest: 2 teaspoons for a citrusy kick.
- Fresh orange juice: 1 tablespoon adds brightness.
Optional Ingredients for the Orange Icing
Want to drizzle on some orange icing for extra flair? You can mix:
- Fresh orange juice: 2 tablespoons for flavor.
- Confectioners’ sugar: 1 cup (120g) for sweetness and a smooth texture.
These ingredients combine beautifully to create delicious Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars that are sure to impress! If you want to dig deeper into ingredient measurements, check out Sally's Baking Addiction.
Step-by-step preparation of Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Making Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars might seem like a lofty endeavor, but in reality, it just takes some organized steps and a bit of love. Let’s dive in!
Preheat the oven and prepare the baking pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). While it's heating up, it's time to line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some overhang on the sides; this will make it much easier to lift your bars out once they’re baked.
Make the crumble mixture for the crust and topping
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Then add 1 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or a food processor, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until you have a crumbly mixture resembling pea-sized crumbs. This process should take about 5 minutes, so be patient and let those arms work!
Prepare the egg and milk mixture
In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, ¼ cup of milk, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the flour and butter mixture, gently mixing until your dough resembles moist crumbly sand.
Assemble the base layer in the baking pan
Out of the crumble mixture, set aside 2 cups for the topping. Press the remaining mixture into the prepared baking pan to form an even crust. Don’t worry if it’s a bit crumbly; that’s totally fine!
Prepare the cranberry filling and add it on top
Now for the star of the show: the filling! In a bowl, mix together 4 cups of cranberries, ¾ cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 2 teaspoons of orange zest, and 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice. Spread this mixture evenly over your crust. Then, top it with the reserved crumble mixture and, if you like, sprinkle on ⅓ cup of sliced almonds for that extra crunch.
Bake the bars to perfection
Pop your baking pan into the oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the top to be lightly browned, and a toothpick should come out mostly clean, with only a few delicious cranberry specks clinging to it.
Cool, make the icing, and cut into squares
Once baked, let your bars cool in the pan on a wire rack. After about 1 hour, you might want to speed things up by placing the whole pan into the fridge. When they’re cool, whisk together 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice and 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar for the icing. Drizzle this over the cooled bars, then cut them into squares. Enjoy your delectable Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars!
And there you have it! Simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!
Variations on Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Adding different fruits for a unique twist
While cranberries are the star of these bars, feel free to mix things up! Consider adding fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even cherries for a delightful flavor fusion. These fruits complement the tartness of cranberries beautifully and create a stunning color contrast. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose!
Experimenting with nut toppings
Why not add a crunchy twist to your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars? You can experiment with a variety of nut toppings. Try using pecans, walnuts, or even hazelnuts for a rich, nutty flavor. Toasting them lightly before sprinkling on top adds an extra layer of depth that's hard to resist. Choose your favorite or combine a few for a deliciously diverse topping!
Discover more fruit ideas at The Spruce Eats and nut tips at Food & Wine.
Cooking tips and notes for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Best practices for baking
To achieve perfect Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars, ensure your butter is cold and cubed before mixing—it creates that flaky texture we all crave. When you’re cutting in the butter, resist the urge to rush! Take at least 5 minutes to achieve pea-sized crumbs. A reliable oven thermometer can also help ensure that your oven is at the correct temperature, as oven fluctuations can lead to uneven baking.
Storage tips for leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your cranberry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them! Wrap bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Pairing Ideas for Dessert or Snacks
When it comes to enjoying your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars, think beyond just a cup of coffee! They pair wonderfully with:
- Hot tea: A spiced chai or chamomile accentuates the tartness of the cranberries.
- Greek yogurt: The creamy texture complements the bars' crumbly topping and adds a protein punch.
- Cheese platter: Serve alongside aged cheeses for a sweet-savory contrast.
These pairings can elevate your experience and make your snack time feel extra special.
Creative Ways to Serve at Gatherings
Hosting a gathering? These Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars can be a charming addition to your dessert table!
- Buffet-style cutting: Cut them into smaller bites for an easy grab-and-go option.
- Toppings bar: Provide a selection of toppings like whipped cream, ice cream, or extra icing.
- Personalized gift boxes: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper for guests to take home as a thoughtful token.
These ideas not only enhance the presentation but also cater to various tastes! For more hosting tips, check out The Spruce Eats for inspiration.
Time breakdown for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Preparation time
Get started on your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars with just 15 minutes of prep time. This quick assembly allows you to jump right into mixing and layering, making it perfect for a busy afternoon or unexpected guests.
Baking time
After you’ve prepared the crust and filling, pop the bars into the oven. The baking process takes about 45 minutes, allowing those delightful cranberry flavors to meld beautifully with the crumbly topping.
Total time
Including cooling time, the total time for preparing your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars is approximately 3 hours. This might seem lengthy, but most of that time is just waiting for the bars to cool, which is essential for achieving that perfect slice!
For more tips on timing and baking, check out these helpful resources from Food Network and Serious Eats. Enjoy your baking!
Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Calories Per Serving
Each serving of these delightful Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars packs around 200 calories, making them a satisfying yet manageable dessert option. Enjoy them without the guilt!
Sugar Content
With approximately 10 grams of sugar per serving, you can indulge in the sweetness of cranberries and your crumble topping. The balance of flavors ensures your sweet tooth is satisfied without overwhelming your palate.
Key Vitamins and Minerals
These bars offer more than just sweetness—thanks to the cranberries, you also get a good dose of vitamins C and K. Plus, the almond topping contributes healthy fats and vitamin E. Adding a touch of nutritional richness to your dessert is always a win!
For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of cranberries, check out resources from the USDA and Healthline. Enjoy your baking!
FAQ about Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in these Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars. There's no need to thaw them before mixing; just toss them into the filling straight from the freezer. This can actually help the filling maintain a lovely, chewy texture.
How can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
If you have dietary restrictions, don't worry! You can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. To make it dairy-free, try using a plant-based butter and your favorite non-dairy milk. Also, consider swapping the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan option.
What’s the best way to store these bars?
To keep your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars fresh, store them covered at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, they freeze wonderfully—simply layer them in a container with parchment paper between each layer and they’ll last up to three months. Perfect for when you want to enjoy a sweet treat later!
Conclusion on Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Why you should make these bars today!
If you’re looking for a dessert that marries sweet and tart flavors with a delightful crunch, Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars are a must-try! Perfect for any occasion, they're an effortless blend of buttery crust and luscious cranberry filling. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this scrumptious delight today!
Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowl
- whisk
- pastry cutter
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
Crust and Topping
- 3 cups all-purpose flour spooned & leveled
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup sliced almonds optional
Cranberry Filling
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries do not thaw
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
Orange Icing (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the finished bars out. Set aside.
- Make the crumble mixture for the crust and topping: Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon together in a large bowl. Add the cubed butter and cut in the butter until all the flour is coated and resembles pea-sized crumbles.
- Whisk the egg, milk, and vanilla together in a small bowl. Pour over the flour/butter mixture and gently mix together until it resembles moist crumbly sand.
- Set 2 cups of the crust/crumble mixture aside. Pour the remaining into the prepared pan and flatten down to form an even crust.
- Mix all of the cranberry filling ingredients together. Spread over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture all over the cranberries followed by the almonds.
- Bake for about 40-50 minutes or until the top is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack.
- Make the icing and drizzle over cooled bars, then cut into squares.
- Cover and store leftover bars at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
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