If you are craving a fruity, buttery delight that strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet, this Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe will become your new go-to treat. Packed with fresh cranberries bursting with zingy flavor, layered on a tender shortbread base and topped with a golden, crumbly crust, these bars offer a wonderful combination of textures and tastes. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or just want a comforting homemade dessert, these bars deliver a stunning centerpiece that is both irresistible and comforting in every bite.

Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe lies in its simple yet purposeful ingredients. Each one works harmoniously to build the right flavor foundation, texture contrast, and vibrant appearance that make the bars unforgettable.

Unsalted butter (1 cup): Provides rich moisture and helps create the classic shortbread crust texture.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and lightens the crumb of the crust.
Light brown sugar (1/2 cup): Brings a subtle caramel flavor that deepens the dough’s complexity.
Large egg (1): Binds ingredients and contributes to a tender crumb.
Vanilla (2 tsp): Enhances all the warm, sweet notes in the crust and filling.
All-purpose flour (3 1/4 cups): The main structural component of the crust and crumble topping.
Baking powder (3/4 tsp): Helps the crust rise just enough for a delicate texture.
Cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds warmth and subtle spiciness.
Kosher salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
Fresh or frozen cranberries (2 1/2 cups): The star ingredient, delivering tartness and a jewel-like color.
Granulated sugar (2/3 cup): Sweetens the tart cranberries for a perfect filling.
Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Thickens the juicy filling to prevent it from becoming runny.
Orange zest (1 tbsp): Adds fresh citrus brightness to complement the cranberries.
Orange juice (1 tbsp): Infuses the filling with light acidity and aroma.
Vanilla (1 tsp additional): Balances the tang with a sweet aroma in the filling.
Powdered sugar (3/4 cup): Used in the final glaze to add a smooth and sweet finish.
Whole milk or heavy cream (4 tbsp): Creates a creamy consistency for the glaze.
Vanilla (1/2 tsp additional for glaze): Rounds out the glaze with warmth and sweetness.

How to Make Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

Step 1: Cream the butter and sugars

Start by creaming the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and light brown sugars in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. This takes about three minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the dough, building a tender and melt-in-your-mouth crust.

Step 2: Combine egg and vanilla

Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars, mixing until fully combined. These ingredients enrich the dough and provide moisture for that perfect soft but sturdy texture.

Step 3: Whisk dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. This ensures even distribution of flavors and the leavening agent throughout the dough.

Step 4: Mix dry ingredients into the wet

Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients slowly, mixing just until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Avoid overmixing to keep the crust tender and crumbly instead of tough.

Step 5: Reserve dough for topping

Carefully set aside about 2 cups of the dough, loosely packed, to create the crumble topping you’ll scatter on later for that classic, rustic look.

Step 6: Press dough into prepared pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Press the remaining dough evenly into the pan to form the crust. Using your hands or the flat bottom of a measuring cup helps get a smooth, compact base.

Step 7: Pre-bake the crust

Bake the crust at 350°F for approximately 15 minutes, until the edges turn lightly golden and the center sets but doesn’t brown too much. This pre-baking step prevents sogginess when the filling is added.

Step 8: Cool crust while preparing filling

Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool slightly, creating the perfect setup for the next layer without overcooking the crust.

Step 9: Prepare cranberry filling

In a large bowl, stir fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla. This mixture will bubble and thicken during baking, delivering that signature tangy, sweet cranberry burst.

Step 10: Spread the filling over crust

Pour the cranberry mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust, making sure each corner gets some filling for a balanced bite every time.

Step 11: Top with crumble dough

Break the reserved dough into small, uneven pieces and scatter them thoughtfully over the cranberry layer. This crumble topping melts into golden clusters with crispy edges during baking.

Step 12: Bake until golden and set

Bake for about 45 minutes, covering the pan with foil during the last 10 to 15 minutes to prevent the crumble from darkening too much. The filling should be bubbly and the topping golden and firm.

Step 13: Cool completely and glaze

Transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow the bars to cool fully. Once cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla for a smooth glaze to drizzle gently over the top for an extra touch of sweetness and charm.

How to Serve Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh cranberries dusted with powdered sugar or a sprinkle of additional orange zest make lovely, vibrant garnishes. A few whole mint leaves can also add a refreshing pop of color and flavor that complements the tanginess perfectly.

Side Dishes

These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a more autumnal feel, serve alongside warm spiced cider or a cup of rich coffee to balance the fruitiness.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bars into petite finger sizes to serve as elegant finger food at brunches or teas. Alternatively, layer them in clear glass jars with whipped cream for a playful cranberry parfait presentation that looks just as fantastic as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cranberry crumble bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to a week. The bars maintain their texture well but refrigerating helps prolong freshness and extend enjoyment.

Freezing

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature or warm gently in a low oven to bring back that fresh-baked feel.

Reheating

Reheat bars in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to restore warmth and softness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and take away that delightful crumbly texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries in this Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure not to thaw them completely to avoid excess water, which can make the filling too runny. Toss the frozen cranberries directly with the filling ingredients and bake as instructed.

Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. For best results, use one that contains xanthan gum or add a small amount separately to maintain the structural integrity of the crust and crumble topping.

What can I substitute for orange zest and juice?

If you don’t have oranges on hand, lemon zest and juice provide a similar fresh citrus brightness that pairs well with cranberries. Another option is to use a splash of vanilla or almond extract for a different but delicious twist.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough the day before and store it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before pressing it into the pan. This can make the baking process smoother and lets the flavors develop even more.

How thick should I cut the bars?

Cut the bars into squares about 2 inches by 2 inches for a perfect balance of crust, filling, and crumble. This size allows each bite to have a lovely combination of textures without being too overwhelming.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making and sharing this Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe with loved ones. Its inviting aroma, the burst of juicy cranberries, and the buttery crumble topping create an experience that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I encourage you to dive in, try this recipe, and let these bars become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire—it’s a delicious way to celebrate flavors that brighten any day.

Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 16 reviews

Author: Matteo
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Cranberry Crumble Bars blend a buttery shortbread crust with a tangy cranberry filling and a delicate vanilla glaze, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Ideal for holiday gatherings or festive treats, they offer a delightful texture contrast between crumbly topping and juicy berries.

Instructions

Cream Butter and Sugars: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture and mix until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl again.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt to distribute the leavening and spices evenly.
Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until the dough begins to pull away from the bowl sides. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
Reserve Dough: Set aside approximately 2 cups of the dough, loosely packed, to be used later as the crumble topping.
Press Dough into Pan: Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of an 8 x 8 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper, using hands or the flat side of a measuring cup to cover the surface and corners uniformly.
Bake Crust: Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden and the center is just set. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
Prepare Cranberry Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Stir well to coat the berries evenly.
Add Filling to Crust: Pour the cranberry mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
Create Crumble Topping: Break up the reserved dough into smaller, flat pieces with your hands and scatter them randomly over the cranberry filling, leaving gaps so the filling peeks through.
Bake Bars: Bake for about 45 minutes, covering the pan loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking to prevent the topping from over-browning.
Cool and Glaze: Remove the bars from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or heavy cream), and vanilla extract to make the glaze and drizzle it over the bars before serving.

Notes

Use fresh or frozen cranberries; if using frozen, do not thaw before mixing.
Ensure butter and egg are at room temperature for better dough consistency.
Do not overmix dough to keep bars tender and crumbly.
Covering the bars with foil towards the end of baking prevents excessive browning.
Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Use either whole milk or heavy cream in glaze depending on desired richness.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 2 x 2 inches)
Calories: 280
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 110 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 33 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 3 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg

Keywords: cranberry bars, crumble bars, holiday dessert, cranberry dessert, shortbread crust, easy baking recipe