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Cranberry Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly marry the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of a rich, buttery blondie base. These bars are not just a dessert; they embody a celebration of flavors and textures that make them an ideal choice for any gathering or as a comforting snack at home. Their vibrant color and mouthwatering taste make them visually appealing and a crowd-pleaser, especially during the fall and winter months when cranberries are in season.

Cranberry Crumble Bars - Browned Butter Blondie

A delightful twist on a classic dish.
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Ingredients
  

For the Blondie Base:

1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cranberry Filling:

1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Zest of 1 orange (optional)

For the Crumble Topping:

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and set aside.

    Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue to cook, stirring often, for about 5-7 minutes until the butter has turned golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

      Make the Blondie Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix well until smooth. Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.

        Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

          Prepare the Cranberry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and orange zest (if using). Toss to coat the cranberries evenly.

            Assemble the Bars: Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared baking pan; spread evenly. Top with the cranberry filling evenly distributed across the batter. Pour the remaining blondie batter over the cranberries and gently spread to cover.

              Make the Crumble Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Then, stir in the melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the batter.

                Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden and set.

                  Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares or bars.

                    Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12-16 bars