Introduction to Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Looking for a delightful, homemade treat to impress your friends and family? Look no further than Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars! These bars are a perfect blend of tart cranberry filling and crumbly, buttery topping that will take your dessert game to the next level. Not only are they visually stunning, but they also offer a unique combination of flavors that delight the palate.
Why Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars make a perfect homemade treat?
These bars are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy weekend brunches. The simple ingredients come together easily and the recipe is straightforward, perfect for both seasoned bakers and novices alike. Cranberries, with their vibrant color and bright flavor, are packed with antioxidants and nutrients, offering a healthy twist that sets them apart from other desserts.
Plus, the ability to customize the recipe with optional add-ins, like sliced almonds, adds an exciting crunch. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or paired with a cup of tea, Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. You can easily store leftovers in the fridge or share them with neighbors—you might even make some new friends along the way!
Dive into the full recipe and experience the magic of these bars for yourself!
Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Key Ingredients for the Crust and Topping
Creating the perfect crust and topping for your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars is essential for achieving that delightful balance of texture and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: Provides the base structure.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
- Baking powder: Ensures a light and airy texture.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors in your bars.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and spice.
- Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed for that rich, crumbly consistency.
- Egg: Binds everything together.
- Milk: Helps to achieve the right moisture balance.
- Pure vanilla extract: For that aromatic, warm flavor.
- Optional: Sliced almonds for added crunch and nutrition.
Essential Components for the Cranberry Filling
Now, let’s not forget the star of the show—our tart cranberry filling! Gather these ingredients to make it truly shine:
- Fresh or frozen cranberries: These berries bring that vibrant tartness. Don’t thaw if using frozen!
- Granulated sugar: To balance the tartness of the cranberries.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling.
- Orange zest: Adds a zesty brightness that complements the cranberries.
- Fresh orange juice: Enhances the fruitiness, bringing a delightful citrus note.
Optional Ingredients for the Icing
Want to elevate your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars? Consider adding some icing on top! Here are the optional ingredients for a simple yet delicious drizzle:
- Fresh orange juice: Provides a delightful citrus flavor in the icing.
- Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the icing and gives it that perfect glaze-like finish.
These ingredients will not only make your dessert a showstopper but will also infuse it with flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more! For more baking tips and tricks, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for expert advice on ingredient measurement and quality.
Preparing Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Making these delicious Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars is a delightful experience that seamlessly combines sweet and tart flavors with a satisfying crumble topping. Let’s dive into each step to ensure your bars turn out perfectly.
Preheat the oven and prepare the baking pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). While it’s heating, grab a 9x13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This little trick makes it super easy to lift out your bars for cutting later on. If you don’t have parchment, you can lightly grease the pan, but parchment is highly recommended for easy removal.
Make the crumble mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk it all together until well blended. Next, adding 1 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter into the mix is where the magic happens! Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or a food processor to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles tiny pea-sized crumbles. Don’t rush this—aim for that perfect texture!
Combine wet ingredients for the crust
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, ¼ cup of milk, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over your flour and butter crumbles. Gently mix everything until it forms a moist, crumbly dough—think of it like damp sand!
Assemble the crust and filling
From your crumble mixture, set aside about 2 cups. Press the remaining amount firmly into the bottom of the pan to create a sturdy crust. Next, prepare your cranberry filling by mixing 4 cups of cranberries, ¾ cup sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 2 teaspoons orange zest, and 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice. Spread this tart filling evenly over the crust, and then sprinkle the reserved crumble mix on top for that delightful texture!
Bake the cranberry crumble pie bars
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean (it’s fine if a few juicy cranberry specks cling!). Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. I usually pop mine in the fridge for about an hour to speed up the cooling process!
Prepare the optional orange icing
While the bars are cooling, you can whip up an optional orange icing! In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice with 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Adjust the consistency to your liking—add more juice for a drizzle or more sugar for a thicker icing.
Cool and cut the bars
Once your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars are fully cooled, drizzle the optional icing on top, then cut them into squares using the parchment overhang to lift them out easily. Enjoy these bars at room temperature, and feel free to store any leftovers tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for a week!
With these steps, you’re well on your way to making a delightful treat that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!
Variations on Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Alternative Fruit Fillings
If you're looking to mix things up with your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars, consider experimenting with other fruit fillings. Apples and pears create a delightful pairing, providing a sweet and tart contrast. You can also try blueberries or raspberries for a berry twist. Seasonal fruits like peaches or cherries can be fantastic options as well. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you're using to maintain that perfect balance!
Gluten-Free Crumble Options
For those needing a gluten-free treat, swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend is an easy fix. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for the right texture. Almond flour or coconut flour can also be wonderful alternatives, creating a unique flavor profile while keeping the Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars deliciously moist. Don’t forget to check the sweetener too; coconut sugar could add a nice depth!
Cooking Notes for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
When making your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Make sure your butter is cold and cubed; this helps create that perfect crumbly texture. Over-mixing the crumble can lead to a dense base, so mix just until combined. And most importantly, resist the urge to skip the cooling time. Letting the bars cool completely before cutting ensures clean edges and better flavors!
Make-Ahead Tips for Convenience
Want to enjoy these delicious bars later? They freeze beautifully! After baking, slice the bars and layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container for easy thawing. For the best taste, consume them within three months. Plus, if you're short on time, feel free to make the crumble and cranberry filling the night before and assemble them the next day for a fresh-baked treat! For more tips on meal prepping, check out this resource.
Serving suggestions for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Pairing ideas for coffee and tea
Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars are a delightful treat that pair beautifully with your favorite beverages. Consider enjoying them alongside a steaming cup of chai tea for a warm, spiced complement. Alternatively, a rich, dark roast coffee brings out the sweetness of the cranberries, creating a balanced flavor experience. Looking for something unique? Try a glass of sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing twist that cleanses your palate.
Creative ways to serve and present
Presentation can elevate the enjoyment of these Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars. Serve them on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh orange slices or mint leaves for a pop of color. If you’re hosting a gathering, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a tiered dessert stand for an eye-catching display. Drizzling the optional orange icing on top right before serving adds a lovely touch that’s sure to impress your guests. For a more intimate vibe, consider wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming takeaway treat.
Time Details for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Preparation Time
Get your kitchen ready! You'll need about 20 minutes to prepare all your ingredients and whip up the delicious crumble and cranberry filling.
Baking Time
Pop your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars in the oven for approximately 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they become lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
Total Time
In just around 1 hour and 10 minutes, you can have these delightful bars baked and cooling, ready to be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or topped with a sweet glaze. Enjoy the process!
Nutritional Information for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
When indulging in Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars, it's good to know what you're treating yourself to. Here's a quick breakdown of the nutritional highlights:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories, making these bars a moderate sweet treat for those watching their caloric intake.
Sugar Content
With around 10 grams of sugar per serving, the balance of tart cranberries and sweet crumble provides a delightful flavor without going overboard.
Dietary Considerations
These bars can easily be made dairy-free by using alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk. Additionally, they are naturally vegetarian-friendly. If you're looking for gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a suitable blend.
Enjoy your cranberry bars, and share them with friends; they might just become your next favorite dessert! For more insights into healthy eating, check out Healthline.
FAQs about Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in these Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars. There's no need to thaw them first, as they’ll create a delightful tartness right in the filling. Just toss them straight into the mix, and enjoy the extra burst of flavor.
How do I store the leftover bars?
To keep those delicious bars fresh, cover them and store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure they are well-covered to maintain moisture and flavor.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead of the egg. Almond milk can also replace regular milk for a creamy, vegan-friendly result.
For more baking tips, check out this guide on vegan substitutions.
Conclusion on Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
In conclusion, Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare, they are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a cozy dessert at home. Don't forget to try the optional orange icing for an extra zing!
Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- large mixing bowl
- Small Mixing Bowl
- whisk
- Pastry cutter
- spatula
- 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.
- Make the crumble mixture for the crust and topping by whisking the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon together in a large bowl. Add the cubed butter and cut in 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 mix until the mixture resembles moist crumbly sand.
- Set aside 2 cups of the crust/crumble mixture. 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 and sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture and almonds on top.
- Bake for about 40-50 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make the icing by whisking the icing ingredients together. Drizzle over cooled bars, then cut into squares.
- Store leftover bars at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Leave a Reply