Irresistible Cranberry Crumble Bars – Browned Butter Bliss

Cranberry Crumble Bars

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, tart cranberries and buttery blondies that makes my heart sing. Picture this: a soft, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth, with bursts of juicy cranberries dancing around like they own the party. candy corn jello cups The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making every passerby stop and drool. These cranberry crumble bars are not just a treat; they are a full-on experience that can turn any mundane day into a joyous occasion.

Cranberry Crumble Bars

I still remember the first time I made these heavenly delights for a family gathering. My cousin took one bite and declared it “the best thing on earth,” which, coming from someone who solely survives on pizza and fries, felt like winning an Oscar. cheesecake brownies Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a Tuesday afternoon, these cranberry crumble bars shine bright like a diamond in the dessert world! bat-themed brownies. For more inspiration, check out this chocolate cake recipe recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These cranberry crumble bars blend rich flavors with an easy preparation method that anyone can master
  • They look stunning on any dessert table, drawing everyone in with their vibrant colors
  • Perfectly versatile, they can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them suitable for any occasion
  • With their delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, they create an unforgettable taste experience!

I once served these bars at a potluck, and let me tell you, they disappeared faster than you can say “Cranberry Crumble Bars.” Everyone was raving about them all night long. For more inspiration, check out this Irish apple cake recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Fresh Cranberries: Look for firm berries that are bright red for the best flavor and juiciness.
  • Brown Sugar: This adds depth and moisture; choose light brown for a subtle caramel flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter to enhance the richness of your bars.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure; make sure to sift it for a lighter texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Balances out the tartness of cranberries; adjust based on personal sweetness preference.
  • Eggs: Binding agents for the batter; use large eggs for consistent results.
  • Vanilla Extract: A splash adds warmth; always go for pure extract if you can.
  • Baking Powder: Ensure your bars rise beautifully; check expiration date for effectiveness.
  • Salt: Just a pinch enhances every other flavor in these crumble bars!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. chocolate-covered pretzels.

 Cranberry Crumble Bars

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter until it turns golden brown. Watch closely as it transforms into nutty goodness!

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine browned butter with both sugars. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and shiny.

Add Dry Ingredients and Cranberries: Gently fold in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Then stir in fresh cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour Into Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish using a spatula to smooth out the top.

Bake to Perfection!: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until edges are golden brown and center is set but slightly soft when gently pressed.

Now that you’ve mastered these cranberry crumble bars—prepare yourself for compliments galore! Enjoy each bite as if it were your last morsel of dessert heaven. Be sure to share (or not) because trust me; no one will blame you if you want to keep them all to yourself!

You Must Know

  • These cranberry crumble bars are not just delicious; they’re a balanced blend of tart and sweet
  • The buttery crust complements the juicy cranberries beautifully
  • Serve them warm for an extra cozy treat; your friends will be begging for the recipe!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the browned butter; let it cool before mixing in other ingredients. This will ensure a rich flavor and perfect texture in your cranberry crumble bars.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or raspberries if you prefer. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon can also elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cranberry crumble bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always taste the filling before baking; adjust sweetness as needed to match your preferences
  • Use cold butter when making the crust for a flakier texture
  • Don’t skip browning the butter; it adds a nutty depth that’s irresistible

Sometimes, while baking these bars, I find myself reminiscing about family gatherings where dessert was always a highlight, and these were often the stars of the show.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just don’t thaw them beforehand.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and the center should slightly jiggle but not look wet.

Can I make these cranberry crumble bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free option.

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Cranberry Crumble Bars

Cranberry Crumble Bars


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  • Author: Mery Mack
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: About 9 servings 1x

Description

Cranberry Crumble Bars are a delightful fusion of sweet and tart flavors, featuring moist, buttery blondies studded with fresh cranberries. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and will impress family and friends alike. With a crumbly texture that melts in your mouth, each bite is a burst of juicy goodness—turning an ordinary day into a celebration!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup brown sugar (light)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
  2. Melt the butter in a saucepan until golden brown and let it cool slightly.
  3. In a bowl, mix the browned butter with both sugars, then add eggs one at a time and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Gently fold in flour, baking powder, and salt, followed by the cranberries.
  5. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown around the edges.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

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Mery Mack

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Mery Mack! Growing up in the heart of Louisiana, I discovered my love for cooking while helping my mom prepare family dinners. After earning my degree at Le Cordon Bleu, I embarked on a journey to explore diverse cuisines and unique cooking styles. This blog is my labor of love—a place to share mouthwatering recipes that celebrate good food and great company. Join me as we create memories, one dish at a time!

Chef Ann