A Celebration of Cranberries

1. The Star Ingredient

Cranberries, with their unique tartness and vibrant red color, are a hallmark of seasonal cooking. Known for their high antioxidant content and health benefits, they bring a refreshing tanginess to these crumb bars. Using fresh or frozen cranberries ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.

2. Seasonal Versatility

While these bars are often associated with the festive season, their appeal extends year-round. They can be enjoyed during fall and winter as a warm dessert or served chilled during spring and summer for a refreshing treat.

Why Cranberry Crumb Bars Stand Out

1. Layers of Texture

The distinct layers in these bars—crust, filling, and topping—create a delightful combination of textures. The shortbread crust provides a buttery foundation, the cranberry filling adds a creamy tang, and the crumb topping offers a satisfying crunch.

2. Balanced Flavors

The tart cranberries are perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the crust and the filling. A touch of orange zest and cinnamon elevates the flavor profile, making these bars both complex and comforting.

3. Easy Preparation

Despite their gourmet appearance, Cranberry Crumb Bars are surprisingly simple to make. With a straightforward crust-and-crumb technique and a no-fuss filling, even novice bakers can achieve stunning results.

A Closer Look at the Ingredients

1. The Crust and Topping

The base and topping of these bars are made from the same buttery, crumbly mixture, saving time and ensuring consistency. The addition of cinnamon and brown sugar adds warmth and depth to the flavor.

2. The Cranberry Filling

The filling combines fresh or frozen cranberries with a creamy sour cream mixture. The cranberries provide tartness, while the sour cream and sugars balance the flavors. Orange juice and zest add a citrusy brightness that complements the cranberries beautifully.

3. Optional Orange Glaze

For those who want an extra layer of indulgence, the orange glaze is a simple yet impactful addition. Made from just confectioners’ sugar and orange juice, it enhances the citrus notes and adds a touch of sweetness.

How to Serve Cranberry Crumb Bars

1. Standalone Treat

Cranberry Crumb Bars are perfect as they are. Their rich flavors and textures make them satisfying on their own.

2. Pair with Ice Cream

Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels luxurious and comforting.

3. Accompany with Coffee or Tea

These bars are an excellent accompaniment to a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a spiced latte.

4. Add to a Dessert Platter

For parties or gatherings, include Cranberry Crumb Bars on a dessert platter alongside cookies, brownies, and other baked goods.

Baking Tips for Perfect Bars

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor, use fresh or frozen cranberries. Freshly grated orange zest also makes a noticeable difference in the overall taste.

2. Chill Before Slicing

Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean edges and a set filling.

3. Customize the Topping

While the crumb topping is delicious as-is, you can customize it by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

Health Benefits of Cranberries

Cranberries are not just delicious; they’re also packed with health benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries contain powerful antioxidants that support overall health.
• Supports Urinary Health: Cranberries are known for their role in maintaining urinary tract health.
• Low in Calories: These berries are naturally low in calories, making them a guilt-free addition to desserts.

A Versatile Dessert for All Occasions

Cranberry Crumb Bars are incredibly versatile, adapting well to different occasions and settings:

• For Holidays: Their vibrant red hue and festive flavor profile make them a standout dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• As a Gift: Pack these bars in decorative tins or boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Everyday Treat: With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these bars are also great for satisfying your sweet tooth on an ordinary day.

Conclusion: The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart

Cranberry Crumb Bars are a celebration of flavors and textures, offering a perfect blend of tartness, sweetness, and buttery richness. Their easy preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal make them a go-to dessert for both special occasions and everyday indulgence.

Cranberry Crumb Bars

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• Author: SOPHIA

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Description

Cranberry Crumb Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust, tart cranberry filling, and a crisp crumb topping. Infused with hints of orange zest and cinnamon, these bars are a festive treat perfect for the holidays or any time of the year. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re ideal for serving at parties, gatherings, or as a sweet snack with coffee.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

For the Crust and Crumb Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cranberry Filling:

• 1 1/4 cups sour cream, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons orange zest
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 4 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

For the Optional Orange Glaze:

• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
• 1 tablespoon orange juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Spray with non-stick baking spray.
2. Make the Crust and Crumb Topping:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
   • Add flour, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until crumbly. Reserve 2 cups of this mixture for the topping.
   • Press the remaining mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Cranberry Filling:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, orange juice, eggs, flour, cornstarch, vanilla, orange zest, cinnamon, and almond extract until smooth.
   • Fold in 2½ cups of cranberries.
4. Assemble the Bars:
   • Pour the cranberry filling over the partially baked crust, spreading evenly.
   • Sprinkle the remaining cranberries over the filling.
   • Scatter the reserved crumb mixture over the top, pinching it into clumps.
5. Bake the Bars:
   • Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, at least 1 hour.
6. Optional Glaze:
   • Whisk confectioners’ sugar and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars before slicing.

• Category: Desserts