Introduction
Indulge in the perfect blend of tart cranberries and rich caramel with these Cranberry Caramel Dream Bars. Perfect for a winter treat or as a sweet complement to a cozy gathering, these bars balance sweetness and tanginess in a delightful way.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
250 grams all-purpose flour
200 grams rolled oats
150 grams brown sugar
200 grams unsalted butter, melted
120 grams granulated sugar
250 grams fresh cranberries
1 can (396 ml) sweetened condensed milk
150 grams caramel candies, unwrapped
2 tablespoons heavy cream (30 ml)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
¼ teaspoon salt (1.25 grams)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 16 bars
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin your journey by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper to ensure effortless removal later.
2. Prepare the Crust Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 250 grams of all-purpose flour, 200 grams of rolled oats, and 150 grams of brown sugar. Drizzle in 200 grams of melted unsalted butter and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside 1 cup of this mixture for later topping.
3. Form the Crust
Press the remaining oat mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish to create a solid crust. Bake this crust in the oven for approximately 10 minutes, just until it starts to set, filling your kitchen with warm aromas.
4. Make the Caramel Sauce
While the crust is baking, take a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Combine 150 grams of unwrapped caramel candies and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Once done, remove it from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
5. Layer the Cranberries
Once your crust is slightly baked, spread 250 grams of fresh cranberries evenly over it. To enhance their natural tartness, sprinkle 120 grams of granulated sugar over the cranberries, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
6. Add the Caramel
Carefully pour the smooth caramel sauce over the layer of cranberries, spreading it evenly to ensure that each bite will deliver a perfect blend of tart and sweet.
7. Top with Oat Mixture
Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture that you set aside earlier on top of the caramel and cranberry layers, giving it a rustic, crumbly finish that will turn golden as it bakes.
8. Bake to Perfection
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes. Watch as the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges begin to bubble, signaling that your creation is coming together beautifully.
9. Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the dish and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. For clean cuts, refrigerate for about an hour before slicing it into bars. The anticipation will make that first bite even more satisfying!
10. Serve and Enjoy
Delight in your finished Cranberry Caramel Dream Bars with a comforting cup of tea or as a memorable dessert at your gatherings. Enjoy the symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.
Notes
Storage Tips
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
These bars pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to add nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, or substitute dried cranberries if fresh ones are not available.
Texture Tip
For a chewier texture, ensure the bars cool completely before slicing. This will help the layers set nicely together.
Additional Flavor Enhancements
Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust for a warm, festive note that complements the cranberries beautifully.
Cook Techniques
Preheating
Always preheat your oven to the specified temperature before baking. This ensures even cooking and proper rise for your baked goods.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
When combining flour, oats, and sugar, mix them well to ensure an even distribution of flavors and ingredients, which leads to consistent texture.
Making the Crust
Press the oat mixture firmly into the baking dish to create a sturdy base. This helps hold the filling in place and prevents the bars from crumbling.
Melting Caramel
Use medium heat to melt caramel candies with heavy cream, stirring continuously. This prevents burning and ensures a smooth, creamy caramel sauce.
Layering Ingredients
When layering the cranberries and caramel, take care to spread them evenly. This ensures each bite has a balanced flavor of tartness and sweetness.
Cooling the Bars
Let the bars cool completely in the pan to allow the filling to set. Refrigerating before cutting helps achieve clean, neat slices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bars with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat. They are also perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture.
How do I store the Cranberry Caramel Dream Bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. They develop even more flavor after a day.
Is it possible to make the caramel sauce from scratch?
Yes, you can make caramel sauce from scratch using sugar, water, and cream. However, using pre-made caramel candies simplifies the process.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative, though the texture may vary slightly.
Can I add nuts to the bars?
Yes, adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can enhance the texture and flavor of the bars. Just sprinkle them on top before baking.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Caramel Dream Bars offer a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making them a perfect addition to your winter dessert lineup. Their rich caramel layer combined with fresh cranberries creates a taste sensation that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether enjoyed at home or shared with friends, these bars are sure to impress and leave a lasting impression.
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