Name: Cranberry Crumb Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 bars
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 cups fresh cranberries; ½ cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange

Cranberry crumb bars have become a cherished treat in many homes, offering a delightful balance between tart cranberries and a sweet, buttery crumb topping. Their popularity peaks during the holiday season, thanks to the widespread use of cranberries in festive cooking and baking.

Originating from classic crumb bar recipes, Cranberry crumb bars highlight the best traits of both fruit bars and crumbly desserts, making them an irresistible option for gatherings or afternoon snacks.

The distinctive pop of Cranberry filling nestled between a tender shortbread base and a golden, crisp topping provides a textural and flavor contrast that is hard to resist. Using cranberries-either fresh or frozen-these bars burst with color and a tangy sweetness that enlivens the palate.

Over time, variations have emerged, with some incorporating orange zest, nuts, or warm spices to enhance the holistic flavor profile. Cranberry crumb bars are not only visually appealing but also relatively easy to prepare, allowing even novice bakers to achieve impressive results.

These bars can be enjoyed year-round, but their association with fall and winter makes them a nostalgic comfort food for many.

Whether you are seeking an easy make-ahead dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply looking to enjoy the health benefits of cranberries in a delicious package, cranberry crumb bars are sure to delight.

Their blend of old-fashioned techniques and modern flavors ensures that cranberry crumb bars remain a timeless classic in the world of home baking.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed light brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
1 large egg

1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (if frozen, do not thaw)
½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
2 tablespoons orange zest
½ cup granulated sugar (for cranberry filling)

2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or fork to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the egg to the crumb mixture and stir until just combined. The mixture should be crumbly but hold together when pressed.

Reserve 1 ½ cups of the crumb mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a firm base.
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, additional granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 6-8 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the cranberry filling evenly over the pressed crust in the pan, spreading it out with a spatula.
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the cranberry layer, gently pressing some of the crumbs into small clumps for extra texture.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and allow the cranberry crumb bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into squares or rectangles as desired.

Nutritional Information

Cranberry crumb bars are a balanced dessert when enjoyed in moderation, providing both energy and several nutrients derived from their core ingredients. One average bar (about 1/16 of a 9x13-inch pan) provides approximately 220-250 calories, depending on the exact size of the cut and the proportion of ingredients per piece.

Each serving contains roughly 8-10 grams of fat, mostly from butter, which contributes to the rich, moist texture. These bars are also a source of carbohydrates, providing 35-38 grams per serving, primarily from flour, oats, and sugars.

The cranberries deliver a dose of natural antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, with about 1-2 grams of fiber per bar depending on size. There is also a small amount of protein (about 2-3 grams per serving) contributed by the oats and egg.

Regarding micronutrients, you'll find trace amounts of potassium, iron, and calcium. The use of oats adds some complex carbohydrates and further ups the fiber content compared to bars made solely with flour.

While cranberry crumb bars do contain sugar and saturated fat, the nutritional profile can be improved by using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, or incorporating additional nuts for protein and healthy fats.

As with any treat, enjoying cranberry crumb bars as part of a balanced diet ensures you receive pleasure and nutrition without going overboard on calories or sugar.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Cranberry crumb bars pair exceptionally well with a variety of beverages, making them a versatile choice for gatherings or solo enjoyment. For a classic non-alcoholic option, consider serving them with a cup of Earl Grey or spiced herbal tea-the aromatic notes complement the tart cranberries perfectly.

Freshly brewed coffee or a vanilla latte adds warmth and richness, enhancing the bar's cozy appeal. When it comes to wine, a lightly chilled Riesling or Moscato d'Asti offers a touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberries.

For a holiday vibe, try serving the bars alongside spiced mulled wine or a sparkling rosé. A splash of ginger beer or cranberry mocktail also creates a festive, alcohol-free pairing. No matter the occasion, cranberry crumb bars are elevated when enjoyed with a thoughtfully chosen drink.

Cooking Tips and Variations

When preparing cranberry crumb bars, use cold butter and cut it in thoroughly for a perfect, crumbly texture in the base and topping. If you wish to create a more hearty base, try swapping in up to half whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour.

To enhance the flavor profile, stir a pinch of cinnamon or a small amount of finely chopped nuts into the crumb mixture before assembling the bars. Fresh cranberries yield the brightest flavor, but frozen cranberries are equally effective-just use them straight from the freezer without thawing.

For those who prefer a sweeter filling, increase the sugar by a tablespoon or two, or mix in a small handful of dried cranberries or currants. Orange zest is the classic pairing, but lemon zest or a splash of almond extract can create an interesting twist.

If you want gluten-free cranberry crumb bars, use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats. To keep the bars from sticking to the pan and ensure neat slices, always line with parchment and allow the bars to cool fully before cutting.

For an extra crisp topping, increase baking time by a few minutes or broil briefly at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions

Cranberry crumb bars are a crowd-pleasing treat that can be served in a variety of ways to suit your occasion. For casual gatherings or holiday dessert buffets, cut the bars into small squares or rectangles for easy, hand-held enjoyment.

Arrange them on a rustic wooden platter or tiered serving tray with fresh cranberries and sprigs of mint for a festive presentation.

They can also be dressed up as an elegant plated dessert by topping each square with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a modest scoop of vanilla ice cream, letting the cold creaminess balance the sweet-tart filling and crumbly topping.

During afternoon tea or coffee hours, serve cranberry crumb bars alongside a selection of other small pastries and fresh berries for a delightful assortment. The bars also make excellent lunchbox treats, as they hold up well when packed, and can quickly be enjoyed at work or while on the go.

For holiday gifting, wrap individual bars in parchment and festive twine, or stack several in a decorative tin-these bars stay fresh for several days at room temperature or even longer when refrigerated. For potlucks, double the recipe and bake in two pans to ensure there's enough for everyone.

No matter how you present them, cranberry crumb bars are sure to draw compliments for their rich flavor and appealing rustic elegance.

Health Benefits

Cranberry crumb bars deliver more than just a burst of vibrant flavor-they also offer several health benefits thanks to their key ingredients. Cranberries are high in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and flavonoids, which support immune health and may reduce inflammation.

These berries have also been linked to improved urinary tract health, making them a smart ingredient choice for those looking to boost their intake of nutritious fruits. The addition of oats in the crumb mixture increases fiber content, which helps with digestion and can aid in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

Using orange juice and zest not only deepens the flavor but also adds a dose of vitamin C and beneficial phytonutrients.

While the bars contain added sugars and butter, which should be enjoyed in moderation, the overall nutrient profile can be improved by making mindful substitutions-such as opting for whole grain flour, reducing sugar, or incorporating nuts for healthy fats and extra protein.

When enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle, cranberry crumb bars provide a blend of taste and nutrition that makes them a smart choice for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen cranberries?

While dried cranberries have a different texture and sweetness, you can use them in a pinch. For best results, rehydrate dried cranberries in warm water or orange juice for 20 minutes, then drain before using. The filling will be less tart, and you might want to reduce the added sugar slightly.

How do I store cranberry crumb bars and how long do they stay fresh?

Store cranberry crumb bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. Allow refrigerated or frozen bars to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Can I make cranberry crumb bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour and use certified gluten-free oats in the recipe. The texture and flavor will remain delicious.

Is it possible to make these bars vegan?

To make vegan cranberry crumb bars, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter. The bars will still hold together and have a great crumbly texture.

What can I substitute for orange juice or zest?

If you do not have orange juice or zest, lemon juice and zest work well as a substitute, brightening up the cranberry filling with a similar citrus flavor. Adjust the amount to taste, as lemons are generally more tart than oranges.

Cranberry crumb bars are a timeless dessert that merges the tart vibrancy of cranberries with a buttery, oat-studded crumb for a treat that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you are baking them for a holiday table, a potluck with friends, or simply to satisfy your craving for a homemade sweet, these bars are sure to impress. Easy to customize and suitable for making ahead, cranberry crumb bars also offer several nutritional benefits when enjoyed in moderation and can be adapted to suit gluten-free or vegan diets. Their fragrant aroma, jewel-toned filling, and irresistible texture ensure that they will remain a favorite for years to come. Whip up a batch of cranberry crumb bars today and experience the perfect marriage of flavor, color, and comfort in every bite.