Deliciously Easy Cranberry Crumb Bars Recipe Youll Love

Did you know that over 40% of Americans struggle to find dessert recipes that balance taste and health? If you fall into this category, you’re in for a treat with our Cranberry Crumb Bars. This scrumptious recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also presents a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can easily elevate your dessert game. Known for their tangy sweetness and crumbly topping, these bars are the perfect fusion of health and indulgence.

Ingredients List

Timing

Preparing these Cranberry Crumb Bars is a breeze! The total time required is approximately 90 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average dessert recipe. Here’s the breakdown:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Cooling time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars will cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture

In a medium bowl, mix the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter, and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This crumbly texture is essential for that enticing crust.

Step 3: Spread the Crust in the Pan

Take a 9×9-inch baking pan and press about two-thirds of the crust mixture into the bottom. Ensure it’s evenly pressed to create a sturdy base.

Step 4: Make the Cranberry Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the cranberries, lemon juice, and a tablespoon of sugar if desired. Spread this luscious filling evenly over the crust in the baking pan. The tartness of the cranberries will balance beautifully with the sweetness of the crust.

Step 5: Add the Crumb Topping

Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture over the cranberry filling, making sure it’s well covered. This crumb topping will turn delightfully crisp as it bakes. Don’t be afraid to leave some bits of cranberry peeking through for visual appeal!

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 40 minutes. Then, cut into squares and serve. This cooling period is crucial for them to set properly.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

These bars pack a punch of antioxidants thanks to the cranberries. They support heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The oats provide a good source of fiber, making these bars a wholesome option for any dessert lover.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

This recipe can easily adapt to fit various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and replace the granulated sugar with maple syrup.
• Less Sugar: Use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar.

Serving Suggestions

These Cranberry Crumb Bars can be enjoyed in numerous delightful ways:

<li Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing for extra flair.

They also make a fantastic addition to your holiday dessert table or as a grab-and-go snack for busy days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your Cranberry Crumb Bars turn out perfectly:

• Not measuring ingredients precisely: Use precise measurements for the best texture. Baking is a science!
• Skipping the cooling period: Patience is key! Letting them cool properly helps the bars set.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars. They can go from perfect to dry quickly.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Cranberry Crumb Bars fresh:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. Simply wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.

This way, you always have a tasty treat on hand whenever a craving strikes.

Conclusion

Cranberry Crumb Bars are a perfect blend of health and indulgence that can be enjoyed any day of the week. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, they’re sure to become a household favorite. Try this recipe today, and be sure to share your feedback in the comments section! Subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

A: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, dried cranberries can work well; however, they are sweeter, so consider reducing the sugar in the recipe.

B: Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! Freezing these bars is a great way to enjoy them later. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

C: How do I know when the bars are finished baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or slightly moist.

D: Can I make these bars with a different fruit?

Yes! Feel free to substitute cranberries with other berries or fruits like apples, cherries, or peaches for variety.

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Deliciously Easy Cranberry Crumb Bars Recipe Youll Love

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• Author: meryem
• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Yield: 9 squares 1x

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Description

Savor easy cranberry crumb bars with a delightful crumb topping A perfect treat for any occasion bursting with flavor Enjoy baking this simple recipe

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 cup of rolled oats

1 cup of all-purpose flour

1/2 cup of granulated sugar

1/2 cup of brown sugar

1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted

2 cups of cranberries (fresh or frozen)

1 tablespoon of lemon juice

1 teaspoon of baking powder

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a medium bowl, mix the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter, and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Take a 9×9-inch baking pan and press about two-thirds of the crust mixture into the bottom.

In a separate bowl, combine the cranberries, lemon juice, and a tablespoon of sugar if desired. Spread this filling evenly over the crust in the baking pan.

Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture over the cranberry filling.

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 40 minutes. Then, cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Cranberry Crumb Bars are a perfect blend of health and indulgence that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 9 squares
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g

Keywords: Cranberry, Dessert, Healthy, Recipe, Bars