Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor and sweetness to your dessert table. These bars are moist, tangy, and rich, making them the perfect combination for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family picnic, or simply a cozy night in, these cranberry bars will impress your friends and family. The creamy, luscious frosting adds an amazing finishing touch that will leave everyone coming back for more.
If you love the balance of tart and sweet flavors, these cranberry bars will quickly become a favorite. With a buttery crust and a creamy topping, each bite offers a delightful experience that tantalizes your taste buds. The vibrant colors of cranberries paired with the smooth cream cheese frosting create a stunning visual appeal. In this article, you will discover why this recipe is so special, how to prepare it, and tips on serving it perfectly. Get ready to enjoy these incredible cranberry bars!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are more than just a dessert; they are an experience. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will win your heart:
1. Flavor Balance – The tartness of cranberries perfectly complements the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting.
2. Easy to Make – The straightforward steps make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
3. Perfect for Any Season – These bars are ideal for holiday celebrations or summertime picnics.
4. Visually Stunning – The bright red cranberries against the creamy frosting make for an eye-catching dessert.
5. Great for Sharing – Cut them into bars for easy serving at gatherings.
6. Make Ahead Option – These bars can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests.
With these fantastic features, it’s easy to see why so many people rave about Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making these delicious cranberry bars will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes in total. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes
These estimates may vary slightly based on your kitchen equipment and experience. However, this framework should provide a helpful guideline.

Ingredients

– 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon milk (as needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating these incredible Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is simple if you follow these clear steps:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the Cranberry Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cranberries with granulated sugar. Set aside to macerate.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the remaining sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in the cranberry mixture, spreading it evenly through the batter.
8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Make the Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until you achieve a spreadable consistency.
11. Frost the Bars: Once the cranberry bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
12. Cut into Bars: Use a sharp knife to cut the dessert into squares or rectangles for serving.
These steps will guide you in creating these amazing cranberry bars effortlessly!

How to Serve

To ensure your Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are enjoyed to the fullest, consider the following when serving:
1. Presentation: Arrange the bars on a decorative platter for an appealing display.
2. Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of chopped cranberries or a few mint leaves for a pop of color.
3. Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a cup of tea or coffee to complement the flavors.
4. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
5. Serving Temperature: These bars are delightful chilled or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion.
By following these serving tips, your Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on your table!
Additional Tips
– Use Fresh Cranberries: Whenever possible, opt for fresh cranberries for a burst of flavor. Frozen cranberries can work, but fresh ones provide a better texture.
– Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a tangier flavor, consider reducing the amount of sugar in the cranberry mixture. Taste it before adding the full cup of sugar.
– Experiment with Spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter can elevate the flavor profile and add warmth.
Recipe Variation
Feel free to customize your Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting! Here are a few variations to try:
1. Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cranberry mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
2. Citrus Zest: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the batter or frosting for a zesty lift.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary restrictions.
Freezing and Storage
– Storage: Keep your cranberry bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 5 days.
– Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Special Equipment
To prepare your Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, you will need the following essential tools:
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer for the frosting
– 9×13 inch baking pan
– Whisk for mixing dry ingredients
– Rubber spatula for folding in cranberries
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
While you can use dried cranberries, the texture and flavor will differ. Fresh cranberries provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of the frosting.
How do I store leftover bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can last up to 5 days.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, the cream cheese frosting can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before using.
Are these bars suitable for a potluck?
Absolutely! These bars are easy to cut and serve, making them a fantastic option for gatherings.
Conclusion
Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just a dessert; they are a delightful experience that combines the tartness of cranberries with the creaminess of frosting. These bars are versatile enough for any occasion, whether a holiday feast or a simple family gathering. With easy preparation and stunning presentation, they are bound to be a hit!

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