Get ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of irresistible aromas and mouthwatering flavors! These Cranberry Crumb Bars are not just a dessert; they're a magical culinary experience that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with warm, comforting mulling spices. Imagine biting into a perfectly balanced bar that's crisp, buttery, and bursting with seasonal goodness - this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices.
- Pour the melted unsalted butter into the dry ingredient mixture. Use a fork or spatula to mix until the ingredients form a crumbly, slightly moistened texture.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even base layer.
- In a separate bowl, combine fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Gently toss the cranberries to coat them evenly with sugar and lemon juice.
- Spread the cranberry mixture evenly over the crumb base, ensuring a uniform layer of fruit.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the cranberry layer, creating a rustic, textured topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cranberries are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The cooling process helps the bars set and makes cutting easier.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into 12 even squares.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warm. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips
- Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: While fresh cranberries are ideal, frozen can work too. Just don't thaw them completely to prevent excess moisture.
- Crumb Consistency: The key to amazing bars is achieving a perfect crumbly texture. Mix the butter gradually and stop when the mixture resembles coarse sand.
- Even Layering: Use the back of a spoon or spatula to press the bottom crumb layer and spread the cranberry mixture evenly for consistent baking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape and develop the right texture.
- Storage Tip: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra indulgent touch, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
