Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars

Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars: A Delightful Indulgence

Embark on a culinary adventure with our Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars—a perfect fusion of creamy cheesecake and tart cranberry compote turned into an irresistible dessert. As the holiday season approaches, this delectable treat brings nostalgic flavors that evoke warmth and joy. Each bite reveals a velvety cheesecake filling topped with a tangy cranberry layer, all enveloped in a buttery graham cracker crust and finished with a crunchy crumble topping. It’s a fast and simple recipe that the whole family will adore, making it ideal for festive gatherings or a cozy night in.

Are You Ready for a Sweet Sensation?

Have you ever craved a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart? Picture this: a luscious cream cheese filling, enveloped in a buttery crust, and topped with a vibrant cranberry compote bursting with flavor. Doesn’t it sound like a dream? Whether you’re reminiscing about holiday traditions or looking to impress guests with your baking prowess, these Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars are sure to satisfy that sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Prep: With straightforward steps and minimal effort, you can whip up these stunning bars in no time.
Healthy Benefits: When made with fresh cranberries and wholesome ingredients, it’s a treat you can feel good about enjoying.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert is a guaranteed hit at any gathering. The combination of flavors appeals to everyone—kids and adults alike.
Minimal Ingredients: Simple and accessible, this recipe calls for ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Versatility: Perfect for any occasion, these cheesecake bars shine during holiday celebrations or as a delightful weeknight treat.

Ingredients

Let’s gather the essentials for our Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars. You’ll want to make sure you have everything ready for this crave-worthy recipe.

Cooking Spray: For greasing the baking pan.
12 Graham Crackers: A classic base for our crust.
6 Tbsp. Unsalted Butter, Melted: Adds richness and flavor.
1/4 Cup Granulated Sugar (for crust): Sweetens the crust perfectly.
1/4 Tsp. Kosher Salt (for crust): Balances out the sweetness.
12 Oz. Fresh Cranberries: The star of our compote.
3/4 Cup Granulated Sugar (for cranberry compote): Helps to sweeten the tart cranberries.
1 Tsp. Finely Grated Orange Zest: Adds a citrusy brightness.
1/4 Cup Fresh Orange Juice: Enhances the flavor of the cranberries.
1/2 Tsp. Pure Vanilla Extract (for cranberry compote): For that rich depth of flavor.
2 Large Eggs: Essential for the creamy filling.
2 (8-oz.) Blocks Cream Cheese, Room Temperature: The base of our cheesecake filling.
1/3 Cup Granulated Sugar (for filling): Sweetens the creaminess.
1 Tsp. Pure Vanilla Extract (for filling): For an extra flavor boost.
1/4 Tsp. Kosher Salt (for filling): Enhances overall flavor.
1/2 Cup All-Purpose Flour: Gives the filling a perfect texture.
3 Tbsp. Packed Dark Brown Sugar: For a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
1/4 Tsp. Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth to our topping.
1/4 Tsp. Kosher Salt (for crumble topping): Balances the sweetness.
1/3 Cup Coarsely Chopped Raw Pecans: Offers delightful crunch.
4 Tbsp. Unsalted Butter, Melted (for crumble topping): Binds the crumble together.

Timing: Fast and Indulgent vs. Slow and Luxurious

Preparing Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars is a balance of indulgence and efficiency. Fast and Indulgent: Within 1 hour, you can have these bars ready to bake, with minimal hands-on time. The oven does the heavy lifting while you eagerly await the delightful aroma wafting through your home.

Slow and Luxurious: Allow them to cool for an hour post-baking, and then let your bars chill in the fridge for a while. This patience pays off, as the flavors meld beautifully, creating the ultimate dessert experience.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9" x 9" baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. This makes for easy removal and cleanup!

Step 2: Make the Crust

Crush 12 graham crackers into fine crumbs. In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbs with 6 Tbsp. melted butter, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 tsp. kosher salt. Mix well to combine and create a sandy texture. Press this mixture firmly into the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Cranberry Compote

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 12 oz. fresh cranberries, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, and a splash of water. Stir occasionally until the mixture thickens and the cranberries burst, about 10 minutes. Finish by adding 1 tsp. finely grated orange zest and 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat 2 large eggs, 2 (8-oz.) blocks of cream cheese (at room temperature), 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp. kosher salt until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.

Step 5: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 3 Tbsp. packed dark brown sugar, 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp. kosher salt. Stir in 1/3 cup coarsely chopped raw pecans and 4 Tbsp. melted butter until the mixture resembles crumbs.

Step 6: Assemble the Bars

Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Add a generous layer of cranberry compote on top and finish with the crumble mixture sprinkled generously across.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Carefully place the pan in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly golden. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before cutting into squares.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars contains approximately 200-250 calories—a delightful indulgence worth savoring. While dessert is meant to be enjoyed with abandon, balancing out your choices throughout the day can help you relish every crumb of these bars.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for healthier swaps for Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars, consider these options:

Low-Sugar: Substitute the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like Stevia or Erythritol to cut down on sugars without sacrificing flavor.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cream cheese and a dairy-free butter substitute for the crust and crumble topping.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free graham crackers and flour to cater to those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Serving Suggestions

These Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars are delicious on their own but can be taken to the next level:

Serve warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Drizzle with chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for a festive touch.
Perfect for holiday gatherings, family potlucks, or as a sweet ending to a casual weeknight dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry bars that lack that delightful creaminess.
Texture Issues: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing—this creates a smooth and creamy filling.
Messes: Make sure to line your baking pan with parchment. This little trick can save you from sticky situations later!

Storing Tips

To maintain the taste and quality of your Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars:

Freezing Portions: Cut cooled bars into squares, wrap them tightly in plastic, and place in an airtight container. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions: Let thaw in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Tempted to Bake ASAP?

You won’t be able to resist the allure of these Cranberry Crumble Cheesecake Bars! Combining the creamy, tart, and crunchy elements makes each bite a small piece of heaven. Don’t wait; gather your ingredients and dig in! Bake up a batch today and bring a little slice of joy to your table.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for the compote?
- Yes! You can use frozen cranberries, but do not thaw them before cooking.
How long do these bars last?
- Stored properly in the fridge, the bars can last up to 5 days.
Can I make these vegan?
- Yes, with plant-based cream cheese and egg substitute like flaxseed or applesauce, you can make them vegan.
What should I serve with these bars?
- They pair wonderfully with ice cream, whipped cream, or a tart fruit sauce.
Can I add different nuts to the crumble?
- Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds for a unique flavor twist.