One-Pan Cranberry Crumble Bars

Cranberry crumble bars are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that can brighten any day. This recipe combines the tangy flavor of cranberries with a buttery, crumbly topping, creating an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

One-pan recipes are a dream come true for busy home cooks. They save time on both cooking and cleanup, which is especially handy when you’re entertaining guests or craving a sweet snack. The unique combination of tart cranberries and sweet, crunchy crumble is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, these bars are a fantastic way to use fresh cranberries in season or frozen ones you have on hand. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, making cranberry crumble bars is a must-try!

How to Make One-Pan Cranberry Crumble Bars

Making One-Pan Cranberry Crumble Bars is straightforward and rewarding. Just follow these simple steps to create a delectable dessert that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the flour and salt until a dough forms. Press about 2/3 of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. In another bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Pour this mixture over the crust in the pan.
5. Crumble the remaining dough over the cranberry filling.
6. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, until the top is lightly golden.
7. Let it cool completely before drizzling with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
8. Cut into bars and serve.

Pro Tips for Success with One-Pan Cranberry Crumble Bars

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries yield the best flavor, but frozen cranberries work just as well. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first.
2. Don’t Overmix: When mixing the dough, be careful not to overmix after adding in the flour. This keeps the bars tender.
3. Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting; this helps them hold their shape better.
4. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter crumble, feel free to increase the amount of brown sugar slightly.
5. Uniform Size: Cut the bars into uniform sizes to ensure even baking and nice presentation.

Flavor Variations for One-Pan Cranberry Crumble Bars

1. Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble for added texture and flavor.
2. Citrus Zest: Incorporate some grated orange or lemon zest into the dough for a zesty kick.
3. Chocolate Chips: Mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cranberry filling for a delightful twist.
4. Spiced Up Crumble: Consider adding nutmeg or ginger to the crumble topping for a spicier flavor profile.
5. Pumpkin Spice: Add a pinch of pumpkin spice to the filling during fall for a seasonal touch.

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Cranberry Crumble Bars

These bars are perfect on their own but can be elevated with a few easy additions:

• Ice Cream: Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
• Yogurt: Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness.
• Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Garnish: Top with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for One-Pan Cranberry Crumble Bars

To store your crumble bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container; they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|———————–|———–|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 50mg |

FAQ About One-Pan Cranberry Crumble Bars

Can I use other fruits instead of cranberries?

Yes! While cranberries provide a distinct flavor, you can substitute with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples. Adjust the sugar levels depending on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute instead of unsalted butter. The texture may vary slightly, but the crumble will still be delicious.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make gluten-free cranberry crumble bars, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the mix has a binding agent, or add a bit of xanthan gum to help with texture.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are finished when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with just a few crumbs. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to avoid over-browning.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before pressing it into the pan.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Cranberry Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any gathering or just a comforting dessert at home. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen cranberries, this recipe captures the essence of seasonal flavors while maintaining simplicity. With easy preparation, potential for fun variations, and options for storage, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every bite of this sweet and tangy treat!

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