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Cranberry Crumble Bars

A delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors, these cranberry crumble bars are perfect for any occasion and easy to make.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 9 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the filling
  • 12 ounces cranberries, fresh or frozen
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
For the crust and topping
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds, optional for topping

Method
 

Make the Filling
  1. Combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, and orange zest in a large pot.
  2. Cook the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
  3. Let it cook for about 15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a bit.
Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line your square baking pan with parchment paper.
Make the Crust
  1. Cream together the room temperature butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
  2. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Fold in the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and kosher salt gently.
Assemble the Bars
  1. Press 3/4 of the dough into the bottom of your prepared baking pan and poke holes in the crust.
  2. Bake the crust for about 15 minutes until it feels set and lightly golden.
Add the Filling
  1. Pour the cooled cranberry sauce over the baked crust.
  2. Crumble the remaining dough over the cranberry layer and sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
Bake Again
  1. Bake for another 20-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown.
Cool and Serve
  1. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
  2. Dust with extra powdered sugar before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

Cranberry crumble bars can be served as is, with ice cream, or alongside coffee or tea. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Consider variations such as different fruits or using lemon instead of orange.