Cranberry Crumble Bars

Name: Cranberry Crumble Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 17.5 ounces sugar cookie mix prepackaged, I used Betty Crocker; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; ½ cup quick oats; ½ cup butter melted, salted; 1 large egg beaten; ⅔ cup white sugar; 4 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons cranberry juice sweetened, orange juice can also be used; 4 cups cranberries about 12 ounces, fresh or frozen

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: November 25, 2025

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Introduction to Cranberry Crumble Bars

Hello, fellow kitchen enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to share one of my absolute favorite desserts: Cranberry Crumble Bars. These little delights are perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a quick treat for the kids after school or something to impress friends at a gathering, these bars fit the bill. The sweet crust combined with the tart cranberries creates a mouthwatering balance that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to whip up even on a busy weekday! Let’s embark on this delicious journey together, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Crumble Bars

What’s not to love about these Cranberry Crumble Bars? They come together in just a snap, making them the perfect solution for busy days. The sugary crust hugs the tart cranberries, creating a delightful dance of flavors. Plus, these bars are a hit with everyone—kids adore them, and they’re a fantastic addition to potlucks or family gatherings. Trust me, you’ll keep coming back for more!

Ingredients for Cranberry Crumble Bars

Let’s gather the delicious ingredients for our Cranberry Crumble Bars! You’ll find them to be a wonderful blend of sweet and tart. Check them out!

Sugar Cookie Mix: This is the star of our crust. A prepackaged mix, I love using Betty Crocker for its consistent taste and texture.
All-Purpose Flour: Just a bit helps to stabilize our dough, giving it that perfect crumbly texture.
Quick Oats: They add a lovely chewy bite to our bars and enhance the overall flavor.
Butter: I prefer using salted butter to balance flavors. It brings warmth and richness to the crust.
Egg: This binds everything together, creating a sturdy base while keeping it tender.
White Sugar: A touch of sweetness to complement the tartness of the cranberries. Use less or more based on your taste!
Cornstarch: This helps thicken the cranberry filling, ensuring it isn’t too runny. It’s a magic ingredient!
Cranberry Juice: A splash adds flavor to the filling. You can swap it for orange juice if you’re feeling adventurous!
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen work wonderfully. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen ones before using!

Exact quantities of each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article for your convenience, perfect for printing out the recipe!

How to Make Cranberry Crumble Bars

Now that we have everything ready, let’s dive into making our delectable Cranberry Crumble Bars! I promise, once you see how simple this process is, you’ll want to make these bars a regular in your home kitchen.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial because a properly heated oven ensures even baking, giving our bars that perfect golden crust. While that’s warming up, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper or spray it with cooking oil. This will make it a breeze to lift out and slice the bars later.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, all-purpose flour, and quick oats. Mixing dry ingredients first helps them blend evenly. Next, pour in your melted butter and start mixing with an electric hand mixer. This is where the magic begins! Beat the egg in a small bowl until fluffy, then add it to the mixture. Blend until it transforms into a crumbly dough that’s ready for action!

Step 3: Form the Base

Take about three-quarters of your dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the baking dish. Don’t be shy—really press down to create a sturdy base! This crust will hold our cranberry filling snug and help keep everything in place. Remember, a solid foundation is key to great bars!

Step 4: Prepare the Cranberry Filling

In a separate large bowl, mix your white sugar, cornstarch, and cranberry juice. Use a spatula to really get everything combined. The sweetness from the sugar will beautifully complement the tartness of the cranberries. Gently fold in the cranberries until they’re evenly coated. It’s like wearing a tasty little coat of flavor!

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Now comes the fun part—assembly! Spoon the cranberry mixture evenly over the pressed dough in the baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out nicely. Next, take the leftover dough and crumble it over the top like a delicious blanket. This topping will create a beautiful, crumbly layer once it bakes.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pop your baking dish into the oven and let it bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye out for that lovely browning on the topping! The filling will be bubbling, and the cranberries will soften into a jammy goodness. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let the bars cool completely. Patience is key; this cooling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

Tips for Success

For consistent results, measure ingredients using the spoon-and-level method for flour.
To prevent sticking, always line your baking dish with parchment paper.
If using frozen cranberries, make sure they are fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
Let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
Consider adding spices like cinnamon for an extra kick of flavor!

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking dish: If you don’t have one, any similar-sized dish will work.
Electric hand mixer: A whisk will do in a pinch, but your arm will get a workout!
Mixing bowls: Any size works—just grab what you have on hand.
Spatula: Use a regular kitchen spatula or a silicone one for easy mixing.
Parchment paper: If unavailable, simply grease the baking dish generously with cooking spray.

Variations

Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping for extra crunch!
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spicy flavor that complements the cranberries perfectly.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the sugar cookie mix and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives to cater to dietary needs.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in some blueberries or chopped apples with the cranberries for a fun twist on flavors.
Less Sugar: Reduce the amount of white sugar in the filling to make these bars even more tart and refreshing!

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top creates a delicious contrast.
Accompany with Tea: These bars go perfectly with a cozy cup of chamomile or spiced chai.
Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.
Add Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries for a refreshing balance.
Offer a Drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch!

FAQs about Cranberry Crumble Bars

As a passionate home cook, I often get asked a variety of questions about my recipes. Here are some common queries about these delightful Cranberry Crumble Bars, along with my answers:

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure they are fully thawed and drained before using. This helps to prevent excess moisture in your bars.

Can I substitute the sugar cookie mix with homemade dough?

Of course! Feel free to use your favorite sugar cookie recipe. Just ensure it’s a similar consistency to the prepackaged mix for the best results.

What’s the best way to store leftover bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for later indulgence!

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious Cranberry Crumble Bars!

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

Look for a golden crust on top and bubbly filling. The cranberries should look jammy and soft, which means they’re ready to be cooled and enjoyed!

Final Thoughts

When I take a bite of these Cranberry Crumble Bars, it’s like a warm hug from the kitchen. The combination of sweet and tart flavors brings back fond memories of family gatherings and laughter. These bars are not just a dessert; they represent moments shared over delicious food. With their simple preparation and delightful taste, they fit perfectly into our busy lives. So, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these bars are sure to bring joy and smiles to your table. Make them, savor them, and enjoy the delightful experience they create!