Name: Cranberry Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); Powdered sugar for dusting

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If you’re looking for a dessert that’s every bit as festive and bright as it is cozy and satisfying, these Cranberry Bars will absolutely steal the show. Packed with tart cranberries and a soft, buttery crumb, every bite is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Whether you serve them at a holiday party or just as a cheerful treat with your afternoon coffee, this recipe is so simple to pull together yet delivers unforgettable flavor and beautiful, jewel-toned color. It’s one of those treats you’ll want to share—and maybe keep a secret stash for yourself!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Cranberry Bars rely on just a handful of ingredients, each playing an important part in the flavor and lovely texture of the final result. From buttery richness to bursts of vibrant fruit, here’s why every component earns its spot:

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides that unmistakably tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb you want in every good bar cookie.
Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the bars and helps create a beautifully golden, slightly crispy top.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients for structure and give the bars a rich, soft texture.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation for the batter, offering just the right amount of sturdiness.
Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Gives a gentle lift so the bars aren’t too dense.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Fresh or frozen cranberries (2 cups): The bright, tart star of the show—don’t skip them!
Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup, optional): Bring a delightful crunch and a toasty flavor that plays beautifully off the cranberries.
Powdered sugar for dusting: A finishing touch for visual charm and a gently sweet flavor boost.

How to Make Cranberry Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s perfectly hot when the batter is ready. Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan, grease it well (you can use a little extra butter, cooking spray, or even parchment paper for easy removal), and set it aside. This will keep your bars from sticking and make slicing much easier later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon to beat them together until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy. This step introduces air for a tender crumb and blends the rich butter and sugar flavors you’ll taste in each bite.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to keep everything smooth and glossy. Once both eggs are incorporated, blend in the vanilla extract. This is the moment where your batter begins to smell absolutely irresistible!

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed, so every square of your Cranberry Bars bakes up just right. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined—avoid overmixing for the most delicate texture.

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries and Nuts

Using a spatula, gently fold in the cranberries and, if you like a bit of crunch, the chopped nuts. If you’re using frozen cranberries, don’t thaw them—just toss them straight in. Every scoop of the batter should look generously studded with bright red berries. For extra zing, you can add a little grated orange zest at this stage!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Spoon the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is a lovely golden hue and a toothpick or tester inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay). Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack—this patience pays off when you cut them later!

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Once your Cranberry Bars are cool, give them a generous dusting of powdered sugar. Slice into 24 even bars. Now comes the best part—dig in and enjoy the tender crumb, pops of tart cranberry, and beautiful holiday look!

How to Serve Cranberry Bars

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Cranberry Bars with a bit of extra powdered sugar just before serving for a snowy finish. For a fancier look, add a few fresh cranberries or a twist of orange zest on top of each bar. Even a dollop of whipped cream or a light glaze looks absolutely stunning on a party platter!

Side Dishes

Pair these sweet-tart bars with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot tea for a cozy snack. If it’s a holiday spread, they’re a perfect match for other seasonal treats like spiced nuts, biscotti, or fruit compote. For something extra special, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of thick Greek yogurt on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Cranberry Bars are incredibly versatile for entertaining. Stack them on a tiered cake stand for a striking dessert table centerpiece. Package them in parchment and tie with twine for festive edible gifts. Or try cutting them into fun shapes with cookie cutters for a whimsical touch at kids’ parties or brunches!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cranberry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. The flavors continue to mellow and meld, making them just as delicious (if not more so) on day two or three. Layer parchment between bars to prevent sticking.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy cranberry goodness even weeks later! Arrange cut bars in a single layer (or in layers separated by parchment paper) in an airtight freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you like a warm, just-baked feel, zap individual bars in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or reheat an entire tray (covered with foil) in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes. This brings back their lovely fresh-from-the-oven aroma and texture.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

While you can substitute dried cranberries, the texture and tartness won’t be quite the same. If you do use dried, try soaking them in hot water or orange juice for about 15 minutes to plump them up before adding to the batter.

Can I make these Cranberry Bars gluten free?

Absolutely! Swap in a good-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for the all-purpose flour. Double-check your baking powder is gluten free, too, for best results.

Do I need to thaw frozen cranberries before using?

Nope! Just add frozen cranberries straight into the batter. If you thaw them, they’ll release extra liquid and could make the bars soggy, so it’s best to use them while still frozen.

Can I make these bars ahead for a party?

Yes! In fact, Cranberry Bars are even better when made a day ahead. Just keep them covered on the counter or in the fridge and slice when ready to serve for easy entertaining.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Let the bars cool completely first—this helps them set up for neat slicing. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, and try dipping the blade in hot water for extra smooth edges.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give these Cranberry Bars a try—they never fail to brighten up a gathering or satisfy that craving for something homey and just a bit out of the ordinary. They’re easy, crowd-pleasing, and sure to become a regular favorite in your baking rotation. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with sweet moments!

Cranberry Bars Recipe

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4.7 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 24 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Cranberry Bars are a delightful holiday dessert that is easy to make and perfect for sharing. A buttery, tender base studded with tart cranberries and optional nuts, dusted with powdered sugar, these bars are a festive treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bars:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Additional:

Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Set aside.
Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet mixture.
Add cranberries and nuts: Gently fold in cranberries and nuts if using.
Bake: Spread batter in the pan and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Cool and serve: Let cool, dust with powdered sugar, cut into bars, and enjoy!