We’ve always been fans of easy, crowd-pleasing treats, and our Cranberry Almond Bars recipe is no exception. These delightful bars blend the tart zing of fresh cranberries with the nutty crunch of almonds, creating a perfect balance of flavors that’s both wholesome and irresistible.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or a quick snack, we’ll show you how to whip up this simple recipe using everyday ingredients. It’s our go-to for adding a touch of sweetness to any occasion, and we’re confident you’ll love it too.
Ingredients
For our Cranberry Almond Bars recipe, we gather fresh, simple ingredients that blend tart cranberries with crunchy almonds for a delightful treat. Below, we’ve listed them in the order they’re used, with prep specifics noted for accuracy.
- Dry ingredients first:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Sifted to ensure a light base.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – For a gentle rise; make sure it’s fresh for optimal lift.
- ½ teaspoon salt – To balance flavors; we recommend fine sea salt for even distribution.
- Wet ingredients next:
- ½ cup unsalted butter – Softened at room temperature to cream easily.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Used for sweetness; measure precisely for the right texture.
- 2 large eggs – Beaten lightly before adding to mix thoroughly.
- Mix-ins and toppings:
- 1 cup dried cranberries – Chopped coarsely for even distribution and tart bursts.
- 1 cup sliced almonds – Toasted lightly in a dry pan for 5 minutes to enhance crunch and nutty flavor.
- Optional: ½ teaspoon almond extract – Added for extra depth; stir in if you want a bolder almond note.
This selection uses everyday pantry staples, making our Cranberry Almond Bars accessible and quick to prepare.
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we have gathered our ingredients for the Cranberry Almond Bars, let’s equip ourselves with the essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process. We recommend these items to achieve the perfect texture and flavor in our bars.
Basic Baking Essentials
To prepare and bake our Cranberry Almond Bars, you’ll need the following core tools. We organize them by function for easy reference:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized bowls—one for dry ingredients and one for wet—to keep everything organized and prevent cross-contamination.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of dry measuring cups (for flour and sugar) and spoons (for baking powder and salt) essential for accuracy in our recipe.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: A hand-held mixer or sturdy whisk to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, ensuring our bars have the right crumb.
Preparation and Baking Tools
For chopping, toasting, and baking, these tools will make the process efficient:
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp knife to coarsely chop the dried cranberries and a stable board, helping us achieve uniform pieces for even distribution.
- Baking Pan: A 9×13-inch rectangular pan crucial for even baking—grease it lightly to prevent sticking and yield those golden edges.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A silicone spatula for folding in mix-ins like toasted almonds without deflating the batter.
- Oven: A standard oven preheated to 350°F, where our bars will bake to a crispy yet chewy perfection.
Optional Tools for Efficiency
While not mandatory, these can enhance our preparation:
- Cooling Rack: To let the baked bars cool evenly and maintain their crunchy almond texture.
- Parchment Paper: For lining the baking pan, making cleanup a breeze and ensuring easy removal of the bars.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps for our Cranberry Almond Bars.
Instructions
We guide you through the simple steps to create our delicious Cranberry Almond Bars, ensuring a straightforward process that turns everyday ingredients into a tasty treat. Let’s dive into the preparation and baking for perfect results every time.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we gather and prep all components to streamline assembly. Start by sifting 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour into a medium bowl, then whisk in 1 teaspoon of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of salt for an even blend that ensures a light, fluffy texture.
Next, soften ½ cup of unsalted butter by leaving it at room temperature or microwaving briefly—aim for a spreadable consistency. In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs lightly with a whisk until just combined, and measure out ¾ cup of granulated sugar for a sweet base.
For the mix-ins, coarsely chop 1 cup of dried cranberries using a chef’s knife on a cutting board to release their tart flavor. Lightly toast 1 cup of sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly until golden and fragrant, adding a nutty crunch. If desired, add ½ teaspoon of almond extract for an enhanced, aromatic almond note that elevates the bars’ overall taste.
Assemble the Bars
We combine the prepped ingredients to form the batter. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy, creating a smooth base that promises a tender crumb.
Add the lightly beaten eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate air and achieve a velvety consistency. Gradually stir in the sifted dry ingredients—flour mixture—using a spatula until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the bars soft and chewy.
Fold in the chopped dried cranberries, toasted sliced almonds, and optional almond extract with a gentle hand, distributing them evenly for bursts of tartness and crunch in every bite. Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it smoothly with a spatula to form an even layer ready for baking.
Bake the Bars
Preheat your oven to 350°F as outlined in our tools section, ensuring even heat for optimal results. Place the assembled pan in the center of the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of warm almonds and tart cranberries.
Monitor closely after 25 minutes to prevent overbaking, as this step locks in the bars’ moist, chewy texture while developing a crisp exterior that contrasts delightfully with the soft interior.
Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes to set the structure, allowing the flavors to meld into a harmonious blend of tart and nutty notes.
After cooling slightly, cut the bars into 12-16 squares using a sharp knife—first score lightly for clean edges—resulting in perfectly portioned treats that are easy to serve and enjoy, with a satisfying snap from the almonds and a vibrant tang from the cranberries.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Cranberry Almond Bars is how easily they adapt to busy schedules, allowing us to prepare them in advance without compromising their tart cranberry tang and crunchy almond texture. Whether we’re planning for holiday gatherings or a quick snack, these make-ahead tips ensure the bars stay fresh and flavorful.
Preparing the Batter Ahead
We can streamline our baking by making the batter up to 24 hours in advance. First, follow the preparation steps up to the point of folding in the dry ingredients and mix-ins. Once the batter is ready, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it immediately. This step helps preserve the batter’s moisture and prevents the almonds from losing their crunch. When we’re ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften, then proceed with spreading it into the baking pan and baking as directed.
Baking and Storing the Bars
For even more convenience, we can bake the entire batch ahead and store it for later enjoyment. After the bars have cooled completely as outlined in the previous section, cut them into squares and store them using these methods:
- Room Temperature Storage: If we’ll be serving the bars within 2-3 days, place them in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps their golden-brown crust intact and maintains the contrast between the tart cranberries and toasted almonds.
- Refrigeration: For storage up to 1 week, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method is ideal if our kitchen is warm, as it prevents the bars from becoming overly soft while preserving their signature crunch.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: We love freezing these bars for up to 3 months. First, arrange the cooled and cut bars on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving to retain their moist interior and fresh taste.
To help us track the best storage options, here’s a quick reference table:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2-3 days | Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain crunch. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Reheat briefly in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes if desired for a warm, fresh-from-the-oven feel. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Label the container with the date to ensure optimal freshness when thawed. |
By following these steps, we can enjoy our Cranberry Almond Bars at their peak, making them a reliable treat for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this simple recipe for Cranberry Almond Bars
and how it brings together fresh flavors for any occasion.
It’s a go-to treat that adds a tasty twist to your routine
and we’re confident it’ll become one of your favorites too.
Give it a try and let us know how yours turns out!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Cranberry Almond Bars?
The main ingredients include 1 ½ cups sifted all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ cup softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 cup chopped dried cranberries, and 1 cup toasted sliced almonds. Optional: ½ teaspoon almond extract for extra flavor. These pantry staples make the recipe simple and accessible.
How do I prepare Cranberry Almond Bars?
Start by prepping ingredients: sift flour, soften butter, and chop cranberries. Cream butter and sugar, add eggs, then fold in dry ingredients and mix-ins. Spread batter in a 9×13-inch pan, bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden. Cool completely before cutting into squares for the perfect tart and crunchy treat.
What tools are required to make Cranberry Almond Bars?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups, an electric mixer for creaming, a 9×13-inch baking pan, and basic kitchen tools like a spatula and cooling rack. These essentials ensure a smooth baking process with everyday items you likely have on hand.
How long should I bake Cranberry Almond Bars?
Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the bars for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking and maintain a moist texture for the best results.
Can I make Cranberry Almond Bars ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake when ready. This makes them ideal for holiday gatherings or quick snacks, keeping flavors fresh and convenient for busy schedules.
How should I store Cranberry Almond Bars?
Store at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen bars in the fridge before enjoying to preserve their tart cranberry and crunchy almond texture.