Looking for a dessert that perfectly balances tart and sweet? These cranberry crumble pie bars are the ideal treat for any occasion! They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and have that delightful crumbly topping that everyone loves. Perfect for a holiday gathering or just a cozy night in.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a buttery crust layered with tangy cranberry filling, all topped with a crunchy crumble. It’s a comforting dessert that will have your friends and family coming back for seconds. Plus, these bars are great for meal prep – just bake a batch and enjoy them throughout the week!
Delicious Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
Cranberry crumble pie bars are a delightful treat that beautifully balances tart and sweet flavors.
With a shortbread-like base and a vibrant cranberry filling, these bars offer an exciting burst of taste in every bite.
The topping, a crumbly mixture, adds not only texture but also a satisfying crunch that complements the soft filling perfectly.
These bars are an excellent choice for any dessert table.
Their inviting appearance, with the golden crumble against the rich red of the cranberries, makes them visually appealing.
Everyone will enjoy reaching for a piece, and they are sure to become a favorite at gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of cranberry crumble pie bars lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients.
The recipe includes all-purpose flour, sugar, and butter, creating a buttery crust that serves as the perfect foundation.
Incorporating cranberries, both fresh or frozen, imparts that signature tartness that elevates the entire dessert.
For added flavor, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a hint of cinnamon meld beautifully with the cranberries.
Oats and optional chopped nuts in the topping bring in a hearty crunch, making every bite a delight.
The variety of textures contributes to the overall enjoyment of the bars.
A Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
These cranberry crumble pie bars are versatile enough for any occasion.
Whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a casual weekday treat, they fit right in.
Their ease of preparation allows for quick baking, ensuring that you can whip them up with minimal fuss.
Serving these bars is a breeze—cut them into squares and present them on a rustic wooden table.
A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while fresh cranberries scattered around enhance their appeal.
Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that everyone will appreciate.
Storage and Meal Prep
Cranberry crumble pie bars are not only delicious but also practical for meal prep.
After baking, they can be stored in an airtight container, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week.
They maintain their flavor and texture beautifully, making them a reliable treat to have on hand.
If you’re preparing for a gathering, consider making a double batch.
These bars tend to disappear quickly, so having extras on hand can be invaluable.
Their combination of flavors and textures is one that will leave your guests asking for the recipe.
Nutrition Facts to Consider
Each bar contains approximately 220 calories, with a good balance of carbohydrates and fats.
This dessert, while indulgent, can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
It offers a small amount of protein as well, making it a satisfying option after a meal.
With such a delightful array of flavors and textures, these bars are a wonderful way to treat yourself and your loved ones.
They are sure to bring joy and satisfaction with every bite, making them a cherished staple in your dessert repertoire.
Delicious Cranberry Crumble Pie Bars
These cranberry crumble pie bars feature a shortbread-like base, a vibrant cranberry filling that offers a delightful tartness, and a crumbly topping that adds a satisfying crunch. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, making them an excellent addition to any dessert spread.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.
- Press into Dish: Reserve 1 cup of the crumb mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Make the Filling: In another bowl, combine the cranberries, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Spread this mixture evenly over the crust.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture and oats over the cranberry filling. If using, add the chopped nuts on top.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown. Allow to cool in the baking dish before cutting into bars.
- Serve: Enjoy the bars warm or at room temperature, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 16 bars
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
