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Cranberry Bars

These cranberry bars combine a soft buttery base with tart cranberries and a sweet vanilla icing for a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 30 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup butter, room temperature (unsalted; if using salted, omit the added salt) Use unsalted butter for best results.
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 medium orange For a fresh citrusy flavor.
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional) Can substitute chopped walnuts or pecans.
  • 2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen Fresh or frozen cranberries both work well.
Optional Garnishes and Icing
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional) For a simpler finish.
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional) For added sweetness and texture.
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar For icing.
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter For icing.
  • 1-2 tablespoons warm water, as needed for consistency To adjust the icing consistency.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch pan, and line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and orange zest until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mixing
  1. Mix in the flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Do not overmix.
  2. Gently fold in the sliced almonds (if using) and cranberries.
Baking
  1. Spread the sticky dough evenly into the prepared pan, greasing hands if necessary.
  2. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until lightly browned around the edges and golden spotted on top. Cool completely before cutting and icing.
Icing (Optional)
  1. To make the icing, whisk together powdered sugar, almond extract (if using), vanilla extract, melted butter, and warm water until smooth. Adjust with more water if needed.
  2. Pour the icing over the cooled bars and let it set before slicing.

Notes

Cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling. Keep them in an airtight container and they will last about 3 days at room temperature or 5 days in the refrigerator. These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.