Introduction to Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
There’s something incredibly rewarding about making homemade treats, and our Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars are no exception. With their buttery shortbread crust, tart cranberry filling, and nutty crumble topping, these bars effortlessly combine flavor and texture. You might be wondering: why go through the effort of baking when store-bought options are so convenient?
Why homemade treats are worth the effort?
Creating your own delights in the kitchen transcends the simple act of baking. Not only do homemade treats allow for complete control over ingredients—ensuring freshness and flavor—but they also offer a unique opportunity to create lasting memories. Picture this: the aroma of baking filling your home, friends and family gathering to enjoy your latest creation, and the joy of sharing something made from the heart.
Baking can also be therapeutic; as you measure, mix, and fold, time seems to stand still. Plus, there's nothing quite like biting into a warm, freshly baked pie bar knowing you made it from scratch. For delicious recipes that elevate your baking skills, check out our tips on measuring ingredients properly here. Let’s dive into the delicious journey of crafting these mouthwatering cranberry crumble pie bars!
Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
When it comes to making these delicious cranberry crumble pie bars, it’s all about the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to create this delightful dessert that combines tart cranberries with a buttery crumble topping. These ingredients are simple and are probably already in your pantry!
Essential ingredients you’ll need
-
For the Crust and Topping:
-
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 the Cranberry Filling:
-
4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
-
¾ cup granulated sugar
-
1 tablespoon cornstarch
-
2 teaspoons orange zest
-
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
-
For the Orange Icing (optional):
-
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
-
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Each of these components plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the preparation!
Step-by-step Preparation of Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Creating cranberry crumble pie bars is a fantastic way to impress your friends and family while enjoying a delicious treat! Let’s break down the process into simple steps for maximum enjoyment.
Gather and prepare the ingredients
Before diving into the kitchen, get all your ingredients together. 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, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for the crust
- 4 cups cranberries, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 2 teaspoons orange zest, and 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice for the filling
Make sure your cranberries are fresh or frozen but don't thaw them! This prep work sets the stage for our delicious bars.
Create the crumble mixture
Start by mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. The blend should smell fragrant and inviting! Next, incorporate the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mix looks like coarse crumbs. This step is crucial; the colder the butter, the flakier your crust will be. Feel free to check out this guide to cutting in butter for tips!
Prepare the cranberry filling
In a separate bowl, toss together your cranberries, sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, and orange juice. This mixture will become your vibrant filling. The combination of sweet and tart flavors here is what makes these cranberry crumble pie bars so irresistible!
Assemble the bars
Now it's time to put it all together! Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of your lined baking pan to form the crust. Pour the cranberry filling over the crust evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top, and if you're feeling fancy, top it off with some sliced almonds for added crunch.
Bake and cool
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake the bars for approximately 40-50 minutes until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them—your kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering aroma, signaling they’re not far from being done! Once done, allow the cranberry crumble pie bars to cool completely in the pan. This will help them set beautifully, making cutting them into neat squares much easier.
And there you have it! Just follow these steps, and you'll have scrumptious cranberry crumble pie bars ready to enjoy. Whether it's for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to be a hit. Don't forget to share your creations!
Variations on Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Almond Cranberry Variations
For a delightful twist on your cranberry crumble pie bars, consider incorporating sliced almonds into the filling. Simply mix in ⅓ cup of almonds with your cranberries for added crunch and nuttiness. If you're a fan of almond extract, swap out a teaspoon of vanilla in the crust for almond extract to amplify those flavors. This combination not only enhances texture but also adds depth to the overall taste.
Citrus Burst Options
Elevate your cranberry crumble pie bars with a zesty citrus twist! Experiment by adding lemon or lime zest to the filling alongside the orange zest. A splash of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more. For a citrus glaze, mix confectioners’ sugar with lemon juice instead of orange juice for a refreshing finish. These variations will bring a vibrant pop to your dessert, making it a standout treat for any occasion.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Pro tips for perfecting the crumble
To achieve the ideal texture for your cranberry crumble pie bars, make sure your butter is very cold and cubed before mixing. This helps create that flaky, tender crumble. When combining the ingredients, be gentle to maintain some texture in the mixture; you want it to resemble small pebbles rather than a uniform dough. Additionally, experimenting with different nuts like walnuts or pecans in the topping can add a delightful crunch.
Storage advice for your bars
These bars are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored to keep the deliciousness going! Cover and store your leftover cranberry crumble pie bars at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to make them in advance, they freeze beautifully for up to three months—just remember to layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring them back to room temperature before serving. For more tips, check out Baking Tips from King Arthur Flour.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Creative Ways to Serve and Enjoy
Elevate your cranberry crumble pie bars experience by considering some delightful serving suggestions. For a cozy treat, warm the bars slightly and serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or creamy whipped cream. The combination of tart cranberries and rich creaminess is divine!
For a brunch gathering, cut the bars into smaller squares and pair them with a side of Greek yogurt sprinkled with honey. You can also drizzle some optional orange icing on top for an extra flair.
Alternatively, present them on a dessert platter with a selection of seasonal fruits, like crisp apples or juicy pears, for a vibrant touch. Trust me, these variations will make your cranberry crumble pie bars the star of any occasion!
Time Breakdown for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Preparation time
Getting ready to bake these cranberry crumble pie bars takes just 15 minutes. You’ll want to gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and line the baking pan to ensure a smooth process.
Cooking time
Once you’ve prepped everything, the cooking takes approximately 45 minutes. Keep an eye on those bars as they bake; the perfect golden-brown top adds to the flavor!
Total time
All in all, plan for about 3 hours from start to finish. This includes cooling time, which is crucial for achieving those perfectly cut squares. You might even find it helpful to prep these ahead of time for a gathering or treat!
For more insights on timing and baking techniques, check out Baking Expert Tips for additional guidance.
Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Calories per serving
Each serving of these delightful cranberry crumble pie bars contains approximately 180-200 calories, making them a satisfying treat without derailing your healthy eating habits.
Total fats and sugars
You will find about 8 grams of total fat and 12 grams of sugar per serving. While the fats come primarily from the butter and almonds, the sweetness perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries.
Protein content
These cranberry crumble pie bars offer around 2 grams of protein per serving, thanks to ingredients like flour and eggs. They’re not just delicious; they provide a little bit of nutritional balance, too!
If you're keen to explore more on the benefits of cranberries, check out this Healthline article. Happy baking!
FAQs about Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen cranberries for your cranberry crumble pie bars. Just make sure not to thaw them before mixing, as this helps maintain their texture and prevents extra liquid from affecting the filling.
How do I store leftover bars?
Storing your delicious cranberry crumble pie bars is easy! Keep them covered at room temperature for up to two days, or pop them into the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing these bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container — they’ll stay fresh for up to three months.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Certainly! To make cranberry crumble pie bars gluten-free, swap out the all-purpose flour for a reliable gluten-free flour blend. Most blends will work well, but it's always good to check for a blend that includes xanthan gum to help with texture.
Feel free to ask more questions or share your experiences with this recipe! For more tips, consider visiting Sally's Baking Addiction.
Conclusion on Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
In summary, cranberry crumble pie bars are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Their delightful combination of tart cranberries and crumbly topping will leave your taste buds dancing. Serve them at gatherings or enjoy them as a cozy snack at home. These bars are sure to impress family and friends alike!
Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- 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
Instructions
- 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. Set aside.
- Make the crumble mixture for the crust and topping: Whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon together in a large bowl. Add the cubed butter and cut in the butter 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 gently mix together until the mixture resembles moist crumbly sand.
- You will have about 6 cups of the crust/crumble mixture. Set 2 cups aside. Pour the remaining into the prepared pan and flatten down with your hands or a flat spatula to form an even crust.
- Mix all of the cranberry filling ingredients together. Spread over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture all over the cranberries and top with almonds.
- Bake for about 40-50 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make the icing by whisking the icing ingredients together. Drizzle over cooled bars, then cut into squares.
- Cover and store leftover cranberry bars at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Leave a Reply