Description
Cranberry Crumble Bars are a perfect blend of tart cranberries and buttery shortbread, topped with a hint of citrus and a sweet vanilla glaze. Ideal for holidays or everyday indulgence, these easy-to-make dessert bars are bursting with festive flavor.
Ingredients
Crust & Topping:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
Cranberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Vanilla Glaze (Optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp whole milk or heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Shortbread Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients. Reserve 2 cups of dough for the topping.
- Bake the Crust:
- Press the remaining dough into the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes until edges are slightly golden. Cool slightly.
- Prepare Cranberry Filling:
- In a bowl, mix cranberries, sugar, cornstarch, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until well coated.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spread cranberry filling over the baked crust. Crumble reserved dough on top.
- Bake for 45 minutes, covering with foil for the last 10-15 minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Cool and Glaze:
- Let bars cool completely in the pan.
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze. Drizzle over bars before slicing.
Notes
- Pre-baking the crust prevents sogginess.
- Ensure the bars are fully cooled before glazing for a clean drizzle.
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries interchangeably.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
