Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a homemade treat straight from the oven, and these Cranberry Crumble Bars are no exception. With a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness from juicy cranberries, these bars are a delightful addition to any dessert table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this recipe will surely bring a smile to your face. Picture a golden brown top, a burst of juicy cranberries, and a crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. Let’s dive into making these delicious bars!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup oats
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. A light coating of butter or non-stick spray will do the trick!
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for the perfect texture!
- Add in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The batter should now be nice and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening evenly.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bars tender!
- Fold in the chopped cranberries, oats, and optional nuts. The cranberries will add a beautiful pop of color and a lovely tartness.
- Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This initial baking will help set the bottom layer.
- Remove the pan from the oven and spread the remaining batter over the partially baked layer. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; it will smooth out as it bakes!
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is a golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma will be heavenly!
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. If you’d like, dust the tops with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Notes or Tips
For a unique twist, consider adding some orange zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberries. If you’re using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them. Just chop them straight from the freezer before adding them in!
Cooking Techniques
These bars are a fantastic way to practice your mixing and folding techniques! Creaming the butter and sugars properly will incorporate air and help achieve that light, chewy texture. Also, folding in the additions gently helps maintain the air you’ve just created, ensuring your bars rise perfectly in the oven.
FAQ
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cranberry crumble bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
How do I store leftovers?
You can store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them!
Conclusion
These Cranberry Crumble Bars are sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the blend of textures and flavors that make them irresistible. Perfect for gatherings, a cozy night in, or simply a treat for yourself, these bars are a sweet celebration of the season. So preheat the oven, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful aroma of baking as you create this wonderful dessert!