Introduction to Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
When time is precious and balancing work with life is a daily challenge, Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars emerge as an ideal treat for young professionals. Imagine returning home after a long day, craving something sweet yet satisfying. These delightful bars pack the irresistible tartness of cranberries with a buttery crumble topping, making each bite a scrumptious reward.
Crafted to be both easy and delicious, these bars blend seamlessly into your busy lifestyle. Perfect for meal prep, they can be made in advance, stored, and enjoyed throughout the week. Plus, the ingredients are simple and accessible, allowing you to whip them up without a hassle. The aroma of freshly baked cranberries wafting through your kitchen is just a bonus!
Not only do they fulfill a sweet tooth, but they also provide a delightful way to impress friends and colleagues alike when hosting gatherings. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making them a versatile option for any occasion. So why not treat yourself? Dive into the world of Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars—you deserve a delicious indulgence that’s as stylish as you are!
For a great step-by-step guide, check out this detailed recipe for perfect results.
Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Creating the perfect Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars starts with gathering the right ingredients. Let's break them down to make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable!
Essential Ingredients for the Crust
For a deliciously crumbly base, you'll need:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 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
- Optional: ⅓ cup sliced almonds for extra texture
These ingredients create a buttery, flavorful crust that perfectly complements the tart cranberry filling.
Fresh Cranberry Filling Components
For that delightful tartness, you'll need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch to thicken
- 2 teaspoons orange zest for added brightness
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice to enhance flavor
This combination of flavors makes every bite blissfully sweet and tangy!
Optional Orange Icing Ingredients
If you want to elevate your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars with a sweet drizzle, consider these optional items:
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar for that sugary touch
The orange icing adds a lovely contrast to the cranberries, taking your dessert to the next level.
Now that you have all the essentials lined up, let’s move on to crafting these delicious bars!
Step-by-step Preparation of Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Making Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars is as delightful as it sounds! Follow these simple steps to create a treat that will impress your friends and family. Let’s get started!
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Make sure to leave an overhang on the sides—this will make lifting and cutting your bars a breeze later on. A little preparation goes a long way!
Make the Crumble Mixture for the Crust and Topping
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Once blended, add 1 cup of cold, cubed butter. This is where you can get a little hands-on: use a pastry cutter, two forks, or even a food processor to cut the butter into the dry mix until it resembles pea-sized crumbles. It should take around 5 minutes.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, ¼ cup of milk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the crumble mixture you just created. Gently combine until it resembles moist, crumbly sand. This will form the base for your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars.
Assemble the Crust and Cranberry Filling
You should have about 6 cups of the crumble mixture. Set aside 2 cups for the topping and pour the rest into your prepared pan, pressing it down firmly to form an even crust. Next, for the cranberry filling, mix 4 cups of cranberries, ¾ cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 2 teaspoons of orange zest, and 1 tablespoon of orange juice together. Spread this filling over the crust, then sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture and a handful of optional sliced almonds on top.
Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for ****40-50 minutes. You want the top to be lightly browned, and a toothpick should come out mostly clean with a few jammy cranberry pieces. This lovely aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
Prepare the Optional Orange Icing
While your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars bake, whip up the optional orange icing. Simply whisk together 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice and 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar. If you want a drizzle, feel free to add more orange juice until you achieve your desired consistency.
Cool, Cut, and Drizzle Icing
Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack. After about an hour, you can pop the pan in the fridge to speed up cooling. Once cool, cut into squares and drizzle with your orange icing. Serve and watch everyone enjoy this scrumptious treat!
With these steps, you'll soon have a plate of delicious Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars ready to share!
Variations on Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Making it gluten-free
Transforming your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars into a gluten-free treat is easier than you think! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture. You can also use almond flour for a nutty flavor profile. Your bars will still be delicious, and everyone can enjoy them!
Adding spices like nutmeg or ginger
Elevate your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars by incorporating warm spices like nutmeg or ginger. Just a pinch (or up to a teaspoon) can give your dessert a cozy autumn twist. Try mixing in ground ginger or freshly grated nutmeg with the dry ingredients for a unique flavor that beautifully complements the tart cranberries, making every bite memorable.
For more creative baking ideas, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Best practices for ingredient storage
To keep your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars fresh and delicious, store your ingredients properly. Keep all-purpose flour in an airtight container to avoid moisture. If you have leftover cranberries, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a resealable bag. Unsalted butter can be stored in the fridge but is best used cold for maximum flakiness in your crust.
Tips for cutting bars neatly
For clean cuts, wait until your bars have completely cooled before slicing. Using a sharp serrated knife can help prevent crumbs. To make it even easier, dampen the knife with hot water, then wipe it clean between cuts. This way, you’ll get those lovely, even squares that look as great as they taste!
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Pairing with Tea or Coffee
These delicious Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars make a delightful companion for your afternoon tea or coffee break. The tartness of the cranberries harmonizes well with the rich flavors of a dark roast or a sweet herbal tea. Try pairing it with a classic Earl Grey or a smooth cappuccino for a cozy treat.
Serving as a Dessert or Snack
Serve these bars warm as a comforting dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Alternatively, cut them into smaller squares for a perfect grab-and-go snack. Whether it's brunch, a picnic, or simply a tasty treat at home, these bars are versatile enough to shine in any setting. Enjoy balancing the sweet and tart flavors while indulging in a delicious homemade delight!
Time Breakdown for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Preparation time
Getting ready for your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars takes about 15-20 minutes. This includes measuring your ingredients and mixing the delicious crumble crust.
Baking time
Once assembled, you'll bake these tasty bars for 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye out for that lovely golden hue!
Total time
From start to finish, you’ll spend about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes making these irresistible bars—perfect for a cozy afternoon dessert or a gathering with friends!
Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Calories per serving
Each serving of Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars contains approximately 200 calories. This makes them a delightful treat that won't derail your daily nutrition goals, especially if enjoyed in moderation!
Key nutrients
These bars are not just a sweet indulgence; they also pack a nutritious punch! Key nutrients include:
- Fiber: The cranberries contribute a good amount of dietary fiber, supporting digestive health.
- Vitamin C: Thanks to the cranberries and fresh orange juice, each bar provides a boost of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function.
- Antioxidants: Cranberries are known for their antioxidant properties, which may help protect your body from oxidative stress.
For a deeper understanding of the nutritional benefits of cranberries, check out resources from Healthline.
FAQs about Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Can I use frozen cranberries directly?
Absolutely! You can use frozen cranberries in your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars without thawing them first. This helps keep the bars from becoming too watery and ensures the cranberries maintain their shape as they bake. Just mix them with the other filling ingredients, and you're good to go!
How do I store the bars properly?
To keep your Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
If you prefer warm bars, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoying them warm brings out the delicious flavors of the cranberries and crumble!
Conclusion on Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Making Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars at home is a delightful experience that combines warmth and comfort in each bite. With their perfectly balanced sweet-tart cranberries and buttery crumble, these bars are ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in. Treat yourself and create lasting memories with this delicious recipe!
Why you’ll love making these bars at home
Creating Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars is not just about the delicious outcome; it’s an enjoyable process that brings the aroma of fresh berries and spices into your kitchen. Here's why you'll love them:
- Seasonal Delight: Perfect for holidays or any festive occasion, these bars highlight the flavors of the season.
- Easy to Share: Cut them into squares to share with friends or family, making dessert a communal affair.
- Versatile: Want to switch it up? Use different fruits like blueberries or apples to create your own version.
So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the simple satisfaction of homemade treats! If you're looking for tips on exploring more fruit recipes, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for inspiration.
Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowl
- whisk
- pastry cutter
- 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.
- Make the crumble mixture for the crust and topping: Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in the cubed butter until it resembles pea-sized crumbles.
- Whisk the egg, milk, and vanilla together in a small bowl. Pour over the flour/butter mixture and mix until it resembles moist crumbly sand.
- Set 2 cups of crumble mixture aside. Press the remaining mixture into the prepared pan to form an even crust.
- Cranberry Filling: Mix all cranberry filling ingredients together and spread over the crust. 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. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make the icing by whisking all 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.
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