These Cranberry Crumb Bars are a delicious and easy way to put that leftover cranberry sauce to good use! The sweet and buttery, oat-filled crumb topping perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries for an irresistible flavor combination. You’ll want to eat these for breakfast and dessert!
before you get started / helpful hints
- Use cold cranberry sauce. Chilled cranberry sauce is easier to spread over the crust, as it prevents the crust from crumbling. If you don’t have leftover cranberry sauce you can use store-bought cranberry sauce or your favorite type of jam instead.
- Freeze the bars. After the baked bars have cooled, place them in the freezer for 15-30 minutes to make them easier to cut and prevent the bars from falling apart.
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How to Make cranberry crumb bars
- Preheat: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8 x 8 pan with cooking spray.
- Make the Crumb Layer: In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, flour, old fashioned oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and is clumpy. Set aside 1 cup of the mixture.
- Add the Crust: Transfer the remaining mixture into the prepared pan and pat down with your fingers or the backside of a spoon.
- Add the Cranberry Sauce: Top the crust with cranberry sauce and spread into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cup of crumb over the bars.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set and the crumb topping is golden brown. Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
how to store the bars
- To Store: If you plan to eat them within a couple of days, you can store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- To Refrigerate: For longer storage, place the bars in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to a week. This will also help keep them firm and fresh.
- To Freeze: Or if you want to save them for later, freeze them! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a quick treat.
frequently asked questions
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and make sure to use gluten-free oats. The texture may vary slightly, but they should still be delicious!
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
For the cleanest slices, let the bars cool completely, or even chill them in the fridge/freezer before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts for neat, even slices.
Can I add other flavors to the crumble?
Yes! Try adding a touch of vanilla extract, a pinch of nutmeg, or orange zest to the crumble for added depth of flavor.
More recipes to use up your holiday leftovers!
- Leftover Mashed Potato Gnocchi
- Turkey Cheese Sliders
- Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry
- Turkey Tortilla Soup
- Ham Fried Rice
Cranberry Crumb Bars
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 3/4 cup old fashioned oats
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups leftover cranberry sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8 x 8 pan with cooking spray.In a medium bowl combine melted butter, flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and is clumpy. Set aside 1 cup of the mixture.
- Transfer the remaining mixture into the prepared pan and pat down with your fingers or the backside of a spoon.
- Top the crust with cranberry sauce and spread into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining cup of crumb over the bars.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set and the crumb topping is golden brown.Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.I let them cool then place in the freezer for 15-30 minute to make it easier to cut. If you cut before they are cool it will make a mess.
Nutrition Information
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