Description
These Cranberry Bars are the perfect festive treat, combining the tartness of cranberries with a buttery, sweet base. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are a great addition to any holiday dessert spread.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Add Cranberries and Nuts: Gently fold in the cranberries and nuts if using. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and slicing into bars.
Notes
- You can substitute dried cranberries if fresh or frozen aren’t available—reduce to 1 ½ cups and add 1 tablespoon of orange juice for brightness.
