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–+ servings
Cranberry Bars

Irresistibly Soft Cranberry Bars Perfect for Holiday Cheer

These cranberry bars are a delightful Christmas dessert, capturing sweet and tart flavors in each bite, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 16 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Measure accurately for best results.
  • 2 teaspoons Baking Powder A critical leavening agent.
  • 1 pinch Salt Enhances all flavors.
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Enhances depth and moisture.
  • 1 cup Cold Butter Essential for crumbly topping.
  • 1 cup Fresh or Frozen Cranberries No thawing needed for frozen.
For the Batter
  • 2 large Eggs Beat until pale.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Adds tang and moisture.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Orange Zest Adds festive touch.
For the Crumb Topping
  • 1 cup Flour Creates crumbly texture.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Sprinkle for sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Cold Butter Prevents greasiness.

Equipment

  • 9-inch square baking pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
  2. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
  3. Beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth.
  5. Alternate adding flour mixture and sour cream, starting and ending with flour.
  6. Fold in cranberries gently with a spatula.
  7. Mix flour, sugar, and cold butter for crumb topping until crumbly.
  8. Spread batter in prepared pan, sprinkle with cranberries and crumb topping.
  9. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and firm to touch.
  10. Cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Consider flouring cranberries before mixing to prevent sinking. Store in an airtight container for best results.

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