Cranberry Bars

Cranberry Bars are a delightful treat that brings joy to any table. With their rich, buttery crust and tangy cranberry filling, these bars are perfect for festive gatherings or as a sweet snack any time of the year. They’re an excellent way to use up leftover cranberries or cranberry sauce, making them versatile and practical. Enjoy the balance of flavors that make Cranberry Bars a standout dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Festive Flavor: The tartness of cranberries combined with a buttery crust makes every bite special, especially during the holidays.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Use up that extra cranberry sauce you have from holiday meals!
• Crowd-Pleaser: These bars are sure to impress friends and family, making them ideal for potlucks and parties.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or spices to personalize your Cranberry Bars.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Cranberry Bars requires just a few essential tools that will help you achieve the best results. Having everything ready ensures a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking pan: This size is perfect for creating thick, chewy bars that slice easily.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for efficient mixing of ingredients without mess.
• Saucepan: Ideal for cooking down the cranberries, ensuring they become perfectly thickened.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Cranberry Bars are rich, buttery and so easy to make. Perfect for the holidays and a great way to use up any leftover fresh cranberries or cranberry sauce.

For the Cranberry Filling:

• 1 12 oz package of cranberries (if using cranberry sauce, refer to notes section below)
• 1 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup water

For the Crust:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup butter; room temp.
• 1 egg; beaten

How to Make Cranberry Bars

Step 1: Cook the Cranberries

1. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat while stirring frequently for about 15 minutes until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir well.
2. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add in the beaten egg, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sprinkle just over half of the crust mixture into your greased 9×13 pan.
3. Press it down firmly to form an even layer as your crust.

Step 4: Add Cranberry Filling

1. Spread the cooled cranberry filling evenly over the crust layer.
2. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over top of the cranberry filling.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place in preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until golden brown on top.
2. Once done, remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your deliciously rich Cranberry Bars as a perfect addition to any dessert table!

How to Serve Cranberry Bars

Cranberry Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them as a sweet snack, these bars can be paired with different accompaniments for an enhanced experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Top your Cranberry Bars with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added creaminess and richness.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm Cranberry Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

Garnished with Fresh Mint

• Add a sprig of fresh mint on top for a pop of color and a fresh flavor kick that complements the tartness of the cranberries.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• For chocolate lovers, drizzle some melted chocolate over the bars for an indulgent twist.

Alongside a Cup of Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your Cranberry Bars paired with a cup of tea or coffee to balance the sweetness and enhance your dessert experience.

How to Perfect Cranberry Bars

Perfecting your Cranberry Bars is easy with just a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure that your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose fresh cranberries whenever possible for the best flavor and texture in your bars.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the texture light and crumbly.
• Let Ingredients Cool: Allow the cranberry mixture to cool before spreading it on the crust; this helps maintain the structure.
• Check for Doneness: Bake until the top is golden brown but avoid overbaking, which can dry out the bars.
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the Cranberry Bars cool completely before slicing to achieve clean edges and prevent crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Cranberry Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses provides a savory counterpoint to the sweet, tart flavor of Cranberry Bars.

2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and complement the flavors in your dessert.

3. Nuts and Dried Fruits
   Serve assorted nuts and dried fruits for added texture and natural sweetness alongside your bars.

4. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that pairs well with baked goods.

5. Savory Crackers
   Offer savory crackers as an option for those who enjoy contrasting flavors with their sweets.

6. Herbal Tea
   A warm herbal tea can enhance the overall dining experience, making it cozy and comforting when served alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cranberry Bars, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Using incorrect measurements can throw off the texture. Always use precise measurements for flour and sugar.
• Overcooking cranberries: Cooking cranberries too long can lead to bitterness. Keep a close eye while they thicken; around 15 minutes is usually perfect.
• Chilling the butter: If your butter is too cold, it won’t mix properly, leading to a dense bar. Make sure it’s at room temperature for the best results.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cranberry sauce to cool is crucial for proper layering. Don’t rush this step; it helps in achieving that perfect slice.
• Not packing down the crust: Failing to pack down the base firmly may result in a crumbly texture. Use your fingers or a flat utensil to press it down evenly.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Start checking your bars a bit earlier than 40 minutes to prevent overbaking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cranberry Bars

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Cranberry Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cranberry Bars that might help enhance your baking experience.

Can I use frozen cranberries for Cranberry Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure not to thaw them before cooking; they will release more juice and thicken nicely during cooking.

How do I customize my Cranberry Bars?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or sprinkle some cinnamon into the mixture for added flavor!

What can I use instead of butter in these bars?

You can substitute melted coconut oil or any plant-based margarine if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Are Cranberry Bars suitable for holidays?

Absolutely! Cranberry Bars make an excellent dessert choice during holiday gatherings and can be served alongside other festive treats.

How do I know when my Cranberry Bars are done baking?

The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. They offer a wonderful balance of sweetness and tartness, making them perfect for any occasion—from holiday celebrations to casual gatherings. Feel free to get creative by adding nuts or spices according to your taste!