Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

Table of Contents

Introduction

If you’re a fan of sweet, tangy desserts that are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, then cranberry crumble pie bars are just what you need. These delectable bars combine a buttery crust, a tart cranberry filling, and a crunchy crumble topping for a dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon snacks, or anytime you’re craving something sweet. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create this delicious treat. Keep reading to discover step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, tips, and variations that will make your cranberry crumble pie bars an instant favorite!

Why choose this Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe recipe?

Convincing arguments.

Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

All-purpose flour – 2 cups
Granulated sugar – ½ cup
Brown sugar – ½ cup
Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
Unsalted butter – 1 cup
Egg – 1 large
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
Salt – ¼ teaspoon
Fresh or frozen cranberries – 3 cups
Granulated sugar – ¾ cup
Orange zest – 1 tablespoon
Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon
Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons

Preparation Steps for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray, and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust and Crumble Topping

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until it forms a crumbly dough. Set aside 1 cup of the mixture for the crumble topping.

Step 3: Press the Crust

Take the remaining dough and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create an even layer for the crust.

Step 4: Make the Cranberry Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange zest, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves, and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the cranberries begin to soften and burst. The mixture should thicken slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Pour the cranberry filling evenly over the crust in the baking dish. Crumble the reserved topping mixture over the cranberry filling.

Health Benefits of Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

Origin and History of the Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

Cranberry crumble pie bars have a delightful history rooted in the tradition of American pie-making. While the exact origins of this specific recipe may be unclear, cranberries have long been a staple in American cuisine, particularly during the fall and winter months. The combination of tart cranberries with a sweet crumble topping is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether served at Thanksgiving feasts, holiday gatherings, or simple family dinners, cranberry crumble pie bars bring a touch of seasonal warmth and nostalgia to the table.

Delicious Variations Around Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

While the classic cranberry crumble pie bars recipe is a delightful treat on its own, there are several creative variations you can explore to add your own twist to this traditional dessert:

Coconut Bliss: For a tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut to the crumble topping for a hint of exotic flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Enhance the texture of your bars by mixing chopped pecans or almonds into the crumble mixture for added crunch and nutty goodness.
Spiced Elegance: Infuse your cranberry filling with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and cozy flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries.
Citrus Burst: Brighten up your bars by incorporating a splash of fresh lime juice or lemon zest into the cranberry filling for a zesty, refreshing twist.

Chef’s Tips for Perfecting Your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

For the best results when making cranberry crumble pie bars, consider these expert tips to elevate your baking game:

Chill Out: To achieve a flaky and tender crust, make sure your butter is cold before incorporating it into the dough. Cold butter creates steam when baked, resulting in a light and airy texture.
Layering Technique: When assembling your bars, press the crust firmly into the baking dish to create a solid base that will hold the cranberry filling and crumble topping without crumbling.
Bake with Precision: Keep an eye on your bars while they are in the oven to prevent over-browning. If the top starts to get too dark, tent the dish with foil to shield it from direct heat.
Cool and Set: Allow your cranberry crumble pie bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean, neat bars. Chilling the bars in the fridge for an hour after baking can help them set and slice more easily.

Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

When making cranberry crumble pie bars, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your dessert turns out as delicious as possible:

Overworking the Dough: Avoid overmixing the dough for the crust and crumble topping. Overworking can result in a tough texture rather than a tender, crumbly one.
Skipping the Parchment Paper: Make sure to line your baking dish with parchment paper. This will not only prevent the bars from sticking but also make it easier to lift them out for slicing.
Not Allowing the Bars to Cool: Let the cranberry crumble pie bars cool completely before slicing. Cutting them too soon can cause the filling to be too runny and the bars to fall apart.

Ingredient Alternatives for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

If you want to put a unique twist on your cranberry crumble pie bars, consider trying these ingredient alternatives:

Spiced Crumble: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble topping for a warm, cozy flavor.
Almond Flour: Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty undertone in the crust and topping.
Cranberry Orange Glaze: Drizzle the cooled bars with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, orange juice, and a hint of zest for an extra burst of citrus.

Tips and Tricks to Perfect Your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

For the best results when baking cranberry crumble pie bars, keep these tips in mind:

Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before attempting to remove and slice them.
Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Side Dish Suggestions for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

Pair your cranberry crumble pie bars with these complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert spread:

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries.
Hot Mulled Cider: A warm mug of spiced cider is the perfect beverage to enjoy alongside these festive bars.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Elevate your dessert presentation by drizzling a bit of warm caramel sauce over the bars just before serving.

FAQ about the recipe Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

How to store the recipe Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe after cooking?

After baking, allow the cranberry crumble pie bars to cool completely. Once cooled, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. You can store the bars at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. If you prefer to freeze them, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Can the recipe Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe be prepared in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry crumble pie bars in advance to save time. After assembling the bars but before baking, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dish from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake according to the recipe instructions. This make-ahead option is perfect for planning ahead for gatherings or special occasions.

What ingredients can be substituted in the recipe Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe?

If you need to make substitutions in the cranberry crumble pie bars recipe, there are a few options. For the crust and crumble topping, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the bars gluten-free. Additionally, if you’re looking to make the bars dairy-free, swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter substitute. For the cranberry filling, you can experiment with different fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or apples if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How to adapt the recipe Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe for a vegetarian version?

Adapting the cranberry crumble pie bars recipe for a vegetarian version is simple. Ensure that all the ingredients you use are vegetarian-friendly, such as using plant-based butter instead of regular butter. Double-check that the granulated sugar and other components are free from any animal-derived additives. By making these easy swaps, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of the cranberry crumble pie bars without compromising on taste or texture.

Is the recipe Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe suitable for children?

Yes, the cranberry crumble pie bars recipe is suitable for children, making it a great treat for the whole family. The bars offer a balance of sweet and tart flavors that kids enjoy, and the handheld nature of the bars makes them easy for little hands to hold and eat. To involve children in the baking process, you can have them help with tasks like mixing the crumble topping, pressing the crust into the baking dish, or even decorating the bars with a sprinkle of powdered sugar once they’re baked. These bars are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!

Conclusion about the recipe Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

With its delightful combination of buttery crust, tangy cranberry filling, and crunchy crumble topping, the cranberry crumble pie bars recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, these bars are a delicious and versatile option. By following the step-by-step instructions, exploring ingredient substitutions, and adapting the recipe to suit your preferences, you can create a batch of these irresistible bars that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of these cranberry crumble pie bars and savor each bite of this delectable dessert!

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Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

Why choose this Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe recipe?

Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars Recipe