Cranberry Pecan Pie Bars

There’s something about the holiday season that just makes me crave the sweet-tart goodness of cranberries. They’re like little jewels of flavor that can turn any dessert into a festive treat. Last weekend, I had a gathering with some close friends, and I wanted to whip up something special, yet simple. That’s when I decided to make Cranberry Pecan Pie Bars. These delightful bars have a luscious blend of sweet-tart cranberries and rich pecans, creating a taste that’s absolutely irresistible. As soon as they hit the table, they disappeared in no time! There’s just something magical about that first bite – the perfect balance of flavors and textures that makes you want to come back for more.

This recipe is a cinch to prepare, which is perfect for those of us who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It only takes about an hour from start to finish, and let me tell you, the payoff is worth every minute. The combination of pecans and cranberries feels like a warm hug during the chilly months, and the use of real maple syrup adds a depth of flavor that’s just divine. Plus, with the added crunch from the rolled oats and the subtle nuttiness of ground flaxseed, these bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie.

If you’re looking for a dessert that can double as a breakfast treat or even a sweet snack with your afternoon tea, these Cranberry Pecan Pie Bars are a fantastic choice. They’re not just about the flavor – they’re about creating moments. Imagine sharing these bars with your family during a cozy evening, with laughter echoing around the room. Or picture yourself enjoying them with a cup of hot coffee on a quiet morning. That’s what makes this recipe so special – it brings people together and creates lasting memories.

So why not give these Cranberry Pecan Pie Bars a try? I promise, they’ll become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire. Once you’ve tasted that perfect blend of cranberries and pecans, you’ll understand why they’re a hit every single time. Go ahead, grab those pecans and cranberries, and let’s get baking!

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Pie Bars

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Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 5 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
• ¼ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• ¼ teaspoon coarse salt
• 2 tablespoons ground flax seed
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon corn starch
• 1 tablespoon water (if needed)

Directions:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 or 10×7 baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
2. In a food processor, combine the crust ingredients until you have a crumbly mixture. Press this evenly into the bottom of your prepared dish and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Let it cool slightly.
3. While the crust cools, mix together the filling ingredients in a separate bowl. If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of water to help it bind together.
4. Spread the cranberry filling over the cooled crust. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and firm to the touch.
5. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator to chill completely.
6. Once chilled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish. Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful mix of sweet and tart flavors!

Creative Substitutions to Suit Your Taste

If you don’t have pecans on hand, you can use walnuts or almonds for a similar nuttiness. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour. If maple syrup isn’t available, honey works as a great alternative, providing a similar depth of sweetness.

Best Ways to Store Cranberry Pecan Pie Bars

To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Simply wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Perfect Pairings for Cranberry Pecan Pie Bars

These bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a sweet dessert wine to complement the tartness of the cranberries.

Secrets to Perfecting Cranberry Pecan Pie Bars

Ensure the crust is evenly pressed into the pan for a uniform base. For added crunch, toast the pecans before using them in the recipe. Also, if you enjoy a sweeter filling, consider adding an extra tablespoon of sugar to the cranberry mixture.

Adding a Seasonal Spin to Cranberry Pecan Pie Bars

In the fall, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or ginger to the filling for a warm spice flavor. In spring, swap cranberries for fresh strawberries or rhubarb for a seasonal twist. Frozen cranberries work well in winter, offering a taste of the holidays year-round.

FAQs:

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen ones?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries if fresh or frozen ones aren’t available. Soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to rehydrate before using them in the recipe. This will help achieve a similar texture to fresh cranberries.

How can I make these bars vegan?

To make these bars vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan buttery spread. Ensure that the maple syrup you use is vegan, as some brands may add non-vegan ingredients during processing.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. After baking and cooling, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This makes them a perfect option for holiday parties and gatherings.

What can I use instead of corn starch?

If you’re out of corn starch, you can use an equal amount of arrowroot powder or potato starch as a thickening agent for the filling. Both alternatives will work to set the filling without altering the flavor.

Why is my crust crumbly?

If your crust is crumbly, it might not have been pressed firmly enough into the pan. Make sure the crust mixture is well combined and press it down firmly to create a compact base. Adding a bit more melted butter can also help bind the crust.

How do I ensure the filling isn’t too runny?

To avoid a runny filling, make sure the cranberries are chopped well and the filling is thoroughly mixed. Adding the corn starch helps thicken the mixture. If your filling is still runny, you can bake it a few extra minutes until it’s set and firm.