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Cranberry Apple Pie Bars are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of seasonal ingredients that evoke the warm feelings of family gatherings and festive occasions. Combining the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of ripe apples, these bars deliver a burst of flavor reminiscent of traditional pies but in a convenient, easy-to-serve format. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast or simply looking to indulge in a cozy evening treat, these bars are perfect for sharing and enjoying with loved ones.

Cranberry Apple Pie Bars

Celebrate the arrival of fall with delicious Cranberry Apple Pie Bars! These easy-to-make dessert bars combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of juicy apples, creating a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will love. Ideal for gatherings, they add a touch of warmth and cheer to any occasion. With their vibrant colors and nutritional benefits, these bars not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also bring the essence of autumn to your table. Enjoy the cozy season with this delightful treat!
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Ingredients
  

For the Crust and Topping:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

2 cups fresh cranberries, thoroughly rinsed and drained

2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced (approximately 3 cups)

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 tablespoons cornstarch

For Garnish (optional):

Powdered sugar for dusting

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Crust Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Pour in the melted butter and add the vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a crumbly texture. Set aside 1 cup of this mixture to use later as a topping.

      Press the Base Crust: Take the remaining crumb mixture and evenly spread it into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly to create a uniform base. Bake this crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until it's lightly golden around the edges.

        Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the rinsed cranberries and diced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and cornstarch. Stir gently until the fruit is evenly coated and the mixture is well combined.

          Layer the Bars: Once the crust is baked, carefully remove it from the oven. Evenly distribute the cranberry-apple filling over the warm crust, ensuring it covers the entire surface.

            Add the Topping: Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the fruit filling, attempting to cover it as uniformly as possible. This will create a delightful topping when baked.

              Bake Again: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

                Cool and Slice: After baking, allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for at least 30 minutes to set. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to slice into squares or rectangles for serving.

                  Serving Suggestions: If desired, lightly dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving. These treats are fantastic warm and pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 1 hr | Makes 12 bars