introduction
Pumpkin cranberry bars are a delicious treat that celebrates the flavors of fall. These bars are moist, flavorful, and packed with the goodness of pumpkin, paired beautifully with tart cranberries.
Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack, a dessert to impress guests, or something to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these bars will not disappoint. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delightful dessert in no time.
why make this recipe
These pumpkin cranberry bars are not just tasty but also versatile. They make a great dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just an afternoon snack. The combination of pumpkin and cranberries offers a wonderful balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Moreover, they are perfect for those who love pumpkin spice, making them ideal for autumn. Plus, they are easy to make, so even novice bakers can enjoy the process. With minimal effort, you can impress your friends and family with this delightful treat.
equipment needed for Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
To make these pumpkin cranberry bars, you’ll need some basic kitchen equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Baking pan (15×10 inches)
- Baking spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Toothpick (for testing doneness)
Having these items ready will ensure a smooth baking experience.
What You Need to Make Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
- 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 3 eggs
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin
- ¾ cup butter (melted)
- 1 cup chopped dried cranberries (divided)
- ½ batch brown butter cream cheese frosting
These ingredients not only create a delicious flavor but also provide a wonderful texture to the bars. The combination of spices adds warmth, making these bars perfect for fall gatherings.
How to Cook Pumpkin Cranberry Bars Step by Step
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While the oven is heating, spray a 15×10 baking pan with baking spray. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make clean-up easier.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Make sure to combine them well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients. The mixture should be light and fluffy, ready to blend with the wet ingredients.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, canned pumpkin, and melted butter. Blend these ingredients until they are smooth. The eggs will add richness and help create a moist bar. Once combined, gradually add in the dry ingredients, stirring until everything is well mixed. You don’t want to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few small lumps.
Next, fold in three-fourths cup of the dried cranberries into the batter. This will give the bars that delightful burst of flavor when you bite into them. Make sure the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Once the batter is ready, spread it evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to ensure that it is level. Then, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
While your bars are baking, take the time to prepare a half-batch of the brown butter cream cheese frosting. This rich frosting will complement your bars beautifully! Once the bars are done, allow them to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
When the bars are cool, generously frost them with the brown butter cream cheese frosting. Make sure to cover every corner for maximum flavor. Finally, sprinkle the remaining quarter cup of chopped cranberries over the top. This adds a lovely touch and makes the bars visually appealing.
how to make Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
If you want to make pumpkin cranberry bars, the process is quite simple. Start by gathering all of your ingredients to ensure you have everything on hand. This will make the baking process smoother.
First, you will need to mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. This includes flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Combine these until well mixed to create a balanced flavor profile.
Then, move to a larger bowl to whisk together the wet ingredients: the eggs, canned pumpkin, and melted butter. Smooth these together until uniform, and then gradually add your dry mix into the wet. Stir until just combined.
Don’t forget the dried cranberries! As you fold in three-fourths of a cup, ensure they are well distributed within the batter.
After preparing your batter, pour it into your prepared baking pan and bake until it’s golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool before frosting with your prepared cream cheese frosting and adding the leftover cranberries.
how to serve Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
Serve pumpkin cranberry bars in squares or rectangles for easy portions. You can cut large squares for dessert or smaller pieces for snacks. They are perfect for sharing, so consider arranging them on a lovely platter for gatherings.
To elevate the experience, you can dust them with powdered sugar or serve them with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness. They can be accompanied by whipped cream or simply enjoyed as they are.
For a cozy vibe, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The warm, spiced flavor of the bars pairs wonderfully with cold ice cream for a delightful contrast.
what to serve with Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
When serving pumpkin cranberry bars, consider pairing them with beverages that enhance their flavors. A hot mug of spiced chai tea or cider would complement these bars beautifully.
For a more traditional pairing, coffee or pumpkin spice lattes make fantastic choices. The warmth of these drinks matches the cozy flavors of the bars, creating a comforting experience.
Additionally, vanilla ice cream or whipped cream can be served alongside for those who love a creamy finish. These pairings will draw out the best of the pumpkin and cranberry flavors.
how to store Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
To keep your pumpkin cranberry bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. If you have leftover bars, make sure to let them cool completely before moving them to the container.
You can store them at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider placing them in the refrigerator, where they will remain fresh for about a week.
If you want to keep them even longer, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
tips to make Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
For the best pumpkin cranberry bars, make sure you use fresh spices. Ground spices can lose their flavor over time, so opt for fresh ones if possible. This will enhance the overall flavor of your bars.
It’s also crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even small variances can affect the outcome. Use measuring cups and spoons for best results.
If you want an extra boost of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter. This will add texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin and tartness of the cranberries.
variation
You can easily customize your pumpkin cranberry bars to suit your taste. For example, if you are not a fan of cranberries, consider using chocolate chips or raisins instead.
For an added twist, try adding a swirl of cream cheese to the batter before baking. It creates a lovely marbled effect that is not only beautiful but delicious.
You could also experiment with different nuts or seeds, like adding sunflower seeds for extra crunch. The possibilities are endless, making these bars a versatile dessert.
best time to make Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
The best time to make pumpkin cranberry bars is during the fall season. This is when pumpkin is abundant, and the flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg resonate with the cooler weather.
If you are looking for a unique holiday treat, these bars are perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings. However, they can be enjoyed year-round, as the flavors appeal to anyone who loves autumn-inspired desserts.
Baking these bars during a cozy fall afternoon while enjoying the aroma in your kitchen adds to the experience.
common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the batter. This can lead to dense and tough bars rather than light and soft ones. Mix until the ingredients are just combined to ensure a tender texture.
Another mistake is using the wrong size baking pan. Make sure to use a 15×10 pan as indicated in the recipe. If you use a smaller pan, the bars may take longer to bake or not cook evenly.
Also, be cautious with baking times. Always start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. Ovens can vary, so it’s wise to rely on visual cues and a toothpick for checking.
nutritional notes
Pumpkin cranberry bars can be a guilt-free treat when made with wholesome ingredients. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, along with fiber. Dried cranberries add antioxidants that are beneficial for heart health.
However, moderation is key, especially considering the sugar and butter involved in the recipe. If you want to lighten the recipe, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of sugar slightly.
These bars can still be healthy and delightful when enjoyed in moderation. They make for a better dessert option than many store-bought alternatives.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
While dried cranberries work best for this recipe, you can use fresh ones. However, fresh cranberries are tart, so you may want to increase the sugar to compensate for the extra tanginess.
Can I substitute for the eggs?
Yes, you can replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan option. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!
conclusion
Pumpkin cranberry bars are a fantastic dessert that encapsulates the warmth of fall. With their delightful blend of flavors and textures, they are sure to please anyone who tries them.
Baking them is a straightforward process, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack, a dessert, or at a gathering, these bars are sure to bring smiles all around. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delicious journey of making these scrumptious bars!
Dry Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.25 cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger
- 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can pumpkin (15 oz)
- 0.75 cup butter (melted)
Add-ins
- 1 cup chopped dried cranberries (divided) Three-fourths cup for the batter, quarter cup for topping.
Frosting
- 0.5 batch brown butter cream cheese frosting
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 15x10-inch baking pan with baking spray.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg until well combined.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, canned pumpkin, and melted butter until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined; a few small lumps are acceptable.
Fold in three-fourths cup of dried cranberries.
Baking
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Frosting
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting with the prepared brown butter cream cheese frosting.
Sprinkle the remaining quarter cup of cranberries on top.
For the best results, use fresh spices and measure ingredients accurately. Consider adding nuts for extra flavor.
