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Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

Avatar photoByOlivia Bennett
Jump to Recipe· 4.6 from 75 reviews

If you are on the lookout for a dessert that captures the perfect harmony of tart cranberries and buttery crumble, then this Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe is going to steal your heart. These bars are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of texture and flavor, layering a tender shortbread crust, vibrant cranberry filling, and a luscious vanilla glaze. Ready to bake some joy in every bite?

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor Combination: The tangy cranberries paired with the buttery, cinnamon-kissed crust create a delightful balance you won’t stop craving.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual coffee break, these bars fit beautifully into any moment.
Easy to Customize: From swapping cranberries with other fruits to adjusting the glaze, it’s flexible to your taste preferences.
Great Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare these bars in advance and store them without losing their fresh, crisp texture.

The image shows a close-up of nine square-shaped dessert bars arranged in a grid pattern on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three visible layers: a golden-brown crumbly top layer with a rough, craggy texture; a bright red layer of berry filling, visible through cracks in the top layer, showing a juicy and slightly chunky texture; and a bottom layer that is not clearly visible but appears to be a soft base supporting the other layers. There are white icing drizzles randomly spread across the top of each bar, adding a smooth and glossy contrast to the crumbly texture. The bars are cut into even squares with imperfect edges, giving a fresh, homemade look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Cranberry Crumble Bars, cranberry bars recipe, tart and buttery dessert, holiday cranberry bars, easy fruit crumble bars

Ingredients & Substitutions

The magic of this Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe lies in its simple but purposeful ingredients. Each component—from the rich butter in the crust to the zesty orange in the filling—plays a vital role in achieving that perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color you’ll adore.

Flat lay of fresh bright cranberries with clusters of orange zest curls, golden light brown sugar crystals glistening beside soft cubes of pale unsalted butter, a scattering of warm cinnamon sticks, smooth vanilla beans curling gently, powdery white powdered sugar dusted delicately, and a small splash of fresh orange juice pooling softly, all arranged harmoniously on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Cranberry Crumble Bars, cranberry bars recipe, tart and buttery dessert, holiday cranberry bars, easy fruit crumble bars
  • Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter gives the crumble crust its tender, rich texture.
  • Granulated and Brown Sugar: The combination adds sweetness with a hint of caramel depth from the brown sugar.
  • Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: Provides the tang and vibrant color that makes these bars pop.
  • Orange Zest and Juice: Brightens the cranberry filling with a citrusy zing.
  • All-Purpose Flour and Baking Powder: These ensure a sturdy but crumbly crust that holds everything together perfectly.
  • Vanilla Extract: A subtle hint that ties the flavors together, both in the crust and glaze.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

Start by creaming the butter and sugars together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this is key for that melt-in-your-mouth crust. Then add the egg and vanilla to infuse richness and aroma. Mix the dry ingredients separately before gently combining everything until the dough just barely pulls from the bowl sides. Save a portion of this dough to crumble on top later!

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Press the dough evenly into your parchment-lined pan, making sure to reach the edges for a sturdy base. Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes until it turns lightly golden. This pre-bake ensures your crust is perfectly crisp before adding the luscious cranberry layer.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Filling

While the crust cools slightly, toss together fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar, cornstarch, orange zest and juice, plus vanilla. This mixture will thicken as it bakes and deliver that bright, tangy flavor that’s so integral to the bar’s personality.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Bars

Pour the cranberry filling evenly over the shortbread crust. Take the reserved dough and break it into smaller chunks, distributing them randomly over the top so the berries peek through beautifully. Bake for about 45 minutes, shielding the bars with foil near the end to prevent over-browning while ensuring a crispy top.

Step 5: Add the Vanilla Glaze

Once the bars have fully cooled, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla to create a smooth, drizzling glaze. The sweet, velvety glaze ties together the tart cranberries and buttery crust, making each bite a satisfying symphony of flavors.

How to Serve Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a dessert made of a golden-brown crumbly crust and bright red cherry filling below it, with some cherries visible through the broken crust. The top layer consists of a rough, uneven crust with a soft texture that has cracks and breaks showing the glossy, deep red cherry layer underneath. White glaze is drizzled in thin, uneven lines across the whole surface, adding contrast and shine. The dessert rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Cranberry Crumble Bars, cranberry bars recipe, tart and buttery dessert, holiday cranberry bars, easy fruit crumble bars

Garnishes

To elevate presentation, consider sprinkling additional orange zest or a few whole fresh cranberries on top of the glaze for a festive pop of color. A light dusting of powdered sugar always adds that charming touch, perfect for holidays or special gatherings.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to bring out their cozy flavors. A warm cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee makes an excellent companion for these delicious treats, turning any snack time into a mini celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the bars on a rustic wooden board alongside seasonal fruits and nuts for a gorgeous dessert platter. Or serve them in pretty little boxes or wrapped with twine as thoughtful homemade gifts your friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to four days—perfect for enjoying over a relaxed weekend or sharing with neighbors.

Freezing

You can freeze the bars before adding the vanilla glaze. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature and drizzle with glaze for that freshly baked taste anytime.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the bars warm, reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. Avoid the microwave for reheating to preserve the texture and prevent sogginess.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

    Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work beautifully here and can be added straight from the freezer without thawing, which helps keep the filling thicker and less watery.

  2. Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

    Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum, and ensure all other ingredients meet your dietary needs for a delicious gluten-free version.

  3. Can I make the crust without an electric mixer?

    Of course! You can cream the butter and sugars using a sturdy whisk or wooden spoon; it might take a little extra elbow grease, but the results will still be wonderfully tender.

  4. How long do the bars keep after baking?

    Stored in an airtight container, these cranberry crumble bars stay fresh for up to four days at room temperature, making them great for prepping ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up this Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe is an absolute delight, from mixing the buttery crust to the sweet-tart cranberry topping and luscious glaze. It’s a recipe that welcomes both novice and seasoned bakers into a joyful kitchen experience, promising smiles with every buttery, tangy bite. Go ahead, make these bars your new favorite—your taste buds will thank you!

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Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

Cranberry Crumble Bars Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 75 reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars (cut into 2x2 inch squares) 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these Cranberry Crumble Bars featuring a buttery shortbread crust, tangy cranberry filling with a hint of orange, and a smooth vanilla glaze. Perfect for a festive treat or cozy dessert, these bars combine tart cranberries with a sweet, crumbly topping baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Shortbread Crust

  • 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 1/4 cups (405 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Cranberry Filling

  • 2 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 2/3 cup (133 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Vanilla Glaze

  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 4 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix to combine well. Scrape down the sides again.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt until evenly mixed.
  3. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix just until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Avoid over mixing to ensure a tender crust.
  4. Reserve Dough for Topping: Set aside approximately 2 cups of the dough, loosely packed, to use later for the crumble topping.
  5. Press Dough into Pan: Press the remaining shortbread dough evenly into an 8 x 8 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Use your hands or the flat side of a measuring cup to press into the corners and create an even crust layer.
  6. Partially Bake the 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 the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
  7. Prepare Cranberry Filling: In a large bowl, combine fresh or frozen cranberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Mix gently until well combined.
  8. Assemble the Bars: Pour the cranberry filling evenly over the partially baked crust. Break the reserved shortbread dough into smaller flat pieces with your hands and randomly place these on top of the cranberry filling, leaving spaces so the cranberries peek through.
  9. Bake the Crumble Bars: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. To prevent the topping from browning too much, cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking time.
  10. Cool the Bars: Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
  11. Make the Vanilla Glaze: Whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, milk (or heavy cream), and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if too thick or more powdered sugar if too thin. The glaze should be thin enough to drizzle but not transparent.
  12. Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the vanilla glaze evenly over the cooled cranberry crumble bars. Once glazed, slice into squares and serve.

Notes

  • Store the bars tightly covered at room temperature for up to 4 days.
  • May be frozen before adding the vanilla glaze. Defrost at room temperature before drizzling with glaze.
  • Using fresh or frozen cranberries both work well; no need to thaw frozen cranberries before mixing.
  • Ensure not to over bake the crust and bars to maintain a tender texture.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk in the glaze.
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