As the winter chill sets in and the scent of pine lingers in the air, I find myself craving something warm and comforting from the kitchen. Enter these Tangy Cranberry Crumble Bars—my go-to treat that brings a burst of festive flavor into any gathering. When I stumbled upon a jar of leftover cranberry sauce tucked away in my fridge, it sparked a delicious idea. With an easy almond flour crust, these bars are not only simple to make but also incredibly delightful to eat.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, crumbly base that perfectly complements the tartness of cranberries, evoking memories of winter holidays and cozy family moments. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or looking for an everyday treat to elevate your afternoon tea, these bars fit the bill. Ready in just under an hour and bursting with flavor, they’re the perfect way to embrace the season while keeping fast food at bay. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and experience the magic together!
Why love Cranberry Crumble Bars?
Delicious flavor and delightful texture: The tangy cranberry sauce paired with a nutty almond crust creates a heavenly bite that everyone will love.
Quick and easy: This recipe takes less than an hour to whip up, making it perfect for those last-minute holiday gatherings.
Perfect for the season: These bars capture the essence of winter, offering a comforting treat that’s ideal for cozy nights in.
Versatile options: Use leftover cranberry sauce or substitute your favorite fruit jams, ensuring you can make this delicious dessert anytime.
Kid-approved: With their fun crumble topping, these bars are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a fantastic family treat!
Cranberry Crumble Bars Ingredients
• Gather these delightful ingredients for your Cranberry Crumble Bars!
For the Cranberry Sauce
- Cranberry Sauce – Use leftover homemade sauce or make fresh with cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and zest for the perfect tangy flavor.
For the Crust and Topping
- Unsalted Butter – Must be at room temperature for easier mixing and a tender crust.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and creates a tender texture; can substitute with extra granulated sugar if needed.
- Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together; ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal results.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; feel free to use imitation if preferred.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure, but you can use more almond flour for a gluten-free option!
- Almond Flour – Adds a delightful nutty flavor and tenderness; replace with more all-purpose flour if nut-free.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the bars; it’s optional but definitely recommended!
- Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness; if you’re using table salt, reduce the amount by half.
- Sliced Almonds – Optional topping for a crunchy texture and visual appeal; omit if there are nut allergies.
How to Make Cranberry Crumble Bars
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Prepare the cranberry sauce by simmering 12 ounces of cranberries, ¾ cup sugar, ¼ cup orange juice, and 1 tablespoon orange zest in a saucepan over medium heat for about 15 minutes, until thickened and syrupy.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
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Cream together ½ cup unsalted butter and ½ cup powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until fluffy. Then, mix in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
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Fold in 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup almond flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt until a soft, crumbly dough forms.
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Press about ¾ of the dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes, or until set and lightly golden.
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Layer the cooled cranberry sauce over the baked crust evenly, then crumble the remaining dough on top. Optionally, sprinkle sliced almonds for added crunch.
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Bake the bars for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
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Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.
Optional: Drizzle with white chocolate for a festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cranberry Crumble Bars?
Elevate your enjoyment of these delightful treats with complementary sides and beverages that enhance their flavors and textures.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm bars, creating a delicious contrast and richness.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai balance the tartness of the cranberry, offering a cozy sipping experience alongside your dessert.
- Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds a delicate sweetness and creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the tangy cranberry filling.
- Citrus Salad: Serve a fresh citrus salad with orange and grapefruit segments to brighten the plate and cut the sweetness of the bars.
- Coffee: A rich cup of coffee complements the nutty almond crust, providing the perfect pick-me-up during your afternoon treat.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance the bars with a drizzle of dark chocolate for a touch of indulgence that marries beautifully with the tart cranberries.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers a savory contrast, making for an elegant and unexpected pairing.
- Mulled Wine: Warm mulled wine, with its spices and fruity notes, provides a festive touch that perfectly matches the winter vibe of these bars.
- Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti adds texture and can be dipped in coffee or tea for a delightful sweet snack alongside the bars.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Crumble Bars
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature; this will create a smoother, more cohesive dough that bakes evenly.
Accurate Measurements: Measure flour properly by spooning and leveling it rather than packing it down. This avoids dense bars and ensures your cranberry crumble bars turn out light and fluffy.
Use an Oven Thermometer: Ovens can often be off by significant degrees. An oven thermometer ensures your temperature is just right for even baking.
Cool Completely: Let the bars cool entirely before cutting; this helps them set and makes for cleaner squares that are easier to serve.
Storage Savvy: Store your cranberry crumble bars in an airtight container; they keep well at room temperature for three days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can prepare the cranberry sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the crust ingredients and refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply press the refrigerated dough into the baking pan, layer the cranberry sauce, and crumble the remaining dough on top before baking. This method ensures that your bars will be just as delicious as when freshly made, providing you with a delightful treat ready to impress!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Crumble Bars
Room Temperature: Store your cranberry crumble bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; they’ll stay fresh and delicious for snacking or dessert.
Fridge: If you prefer your bars chilled, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. This also enhances the tart flavor of the cranberry!
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: For a warm treat, pop a bar in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving. The nutty almond crust will be delightful when warmed!
Cranberry Crumble Bars Variations
Feel free to make these delicious bars your own with some creative twists and substitutions!
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Nut-Free: Replace almond flour with an equal amount of all-purpose flour for a nut-free version while maintaining the delightful texture.
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Fruit Swap: Use leftover fruit jams like raspberry or apricot instead of cranberry for a sweet alternative that’s just as tasty.
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Gluten-Free Delight: Use certified gluten-free almond flour in place of all-purpose flour to create a gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the crust for a surprising heat that beautifully balances the tartness of the cranberries.
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Coconut Twist: Substitute almond flour with coconut flour for a lovely coconut flavor; remember to adjust the ratio as coconut flour absorbs more moisture.
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Zesty Love: Enhance the flavor with a teaspoon of lemon zest in the crust for a fresh, citrusy punch that pairs well with the cranberries.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the top after cooling for an indulgent addition that tastes divine.
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Dairy-Free Option: Swap unsalted butter for coconut oil or a plant-based alternative to keep these bars dairy-free without compromising on flavor.
Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe cranberries?
Absolutely! When selecting cranberries for your sauce, look for firm, bright red berries. Avoid any with dark spots or softness, as these may be overripe or spoiled. Fresh cranberries are typically available in the fall and winter, making them perfect for your cranberry crumble bars.
What is the best way to store cranberry crumble bars?
Very! Store your cranberry crumble bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to enjoy them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I freeze cranberry crumble bars, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cranberry crumble bars, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them into a freezer-safe bag. Label and date it, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months. For the best experience, thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
What should I do if my bars crumble too much when cutting?
No worries! If your cranberry crumble bars are crumbling while you’re cutting them, it might be due to not letting them cool completely. Make sure to allow them to cool in the pan for a while before transferring them to a wire rack. If they’re still too crumbly, you can slightly warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving; this will help them bind together better.
Can I make these bars nut-free?
Yes, you can! To prepare nut-free cranberry crumble bars, simply substitute the almond flour with an additional amount of all-purpose flour. This will maintain the texture and taste while making it safe for those with nut allergies. Just be sure to check all labels on ingredients for possible cross-contamination.
Can dogs eat cranberry crumble bars?
Definitely not! While cranberries are safe for dogs in moderation, the other ingredients in cranberry crumble bars, like sugar and butter, are not suitable for them. It’s best to keep these delicious treats just for yourself and your family!
Delicious Cranberry Crumble Bars Perfect for Winter Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the cranberry sauce by simmering cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a saucepan over medium heat for about 15 minutes, until thickened and syrupy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cream together unsalted butter and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until fluffy. Then, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Fold in all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and kosher salt until a soft, crumbly dough forms.
- Press about 3/4 of the dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes, or until set and lightly golden.
- Layer the cooled cranberry sauce over the baked crust evenly, then crumble the remaining dough on top. Optionally, sprinkle sliced almonds.
- Bake the bars for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.