Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are an amazing dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season. These delightful treats combine the tartness of cranberries with the creamy sweetness of frosting, creating a flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or simply want to enjoy a delicious snack, these cranberry bars are sure to impress. They provide a wonderful balance of textures, with a crumbly base topped with a luscious layer of cream cheese frosting.
Imagine biting into a soft, chewy bar that bursts with the zesty taste of cranberries. The creamy frosting adds a silky finish that makes each bite irresistible. These bars are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of flavors that evoke warmth and joy. As you prepare to make these bars, you’ll discover just how easy it is to create something truly special. The vibrant color and delightful taste of Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are bound to make them a favorite among family and friends.
In this guide, we’ll explore why you’ll love this recipe, provide you with preparation and cooking times, and give you a detailed list of ingredients. You’ll also find step-by-step instructions for making these incredible bars, along with tips on how to serve them beautifully. Get ready to make Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting a staple in your dessert repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting offer a delightful way to enjoy the unique flavors of cranberries in a sweet treat. Here are some reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
1. Seasonal Flavor: The tartness of cranberries paired with sweet frosting makes these bars a perfect option for fall and winter celebrations.
2. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
3. Versatile Treat: These bars can be enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or even a breakfast treat.
4. Impressive Presentation: The vibrant color of the cranberries and the creamy frosting create an eye-catching dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
5. Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares for easy serving at gatherings, making them an ideal choice for potlucks and parties.
6. Leftover Friendly: These bars stay fresh in the refrigerator, so you can enjoy them for days after baking.
With these qualities in mind, it’s clear why Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a must-try recipe for any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

To whip up a batch of Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some time in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved in preparing and cooking these delicious bars:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 1 hour (for frosting)
These times may vary based on your kitchen setup and skill level, but this estimate should give you a good idea of how long the entire process will take.

Ingredients

– 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is a straightforward process. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a successful outcome:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, rinse and dry them. If using frozen, allow them to thaw and drain excess moisture.
3. Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
7. Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold the cranberries into the batter until evenly distributed.
8. Pour Batter: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool Bars: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
11. Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, mixing until creamy.
12. Frost Bars: Once the cranberry bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
13. Cut and Serve: Cut into squares and serve.

How to Serve

Serving Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting can enhance the overall experience. Here are some tips to make your presentation shine:
1. Plate Presentation: Use a decorative serving platter to showcase the bars. Arrange them neatly for a beautiful display.
2. Garnish: Consider garnishing with a few fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added flair.
3. Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa to complement the flavors.
4. Storage Tips: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
By following these serving tips, you’ll create an unforgettable experience for your guests, making your Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting a delightful highlight of any gathering. Enjoy!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Cranberries: If possible, opt for fresh cranberries for a brighter flavor. They provide a delightful tartness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the frosting.
– Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.
– Allow Bars to Cool Completely: For the best frosting application, ensure the bars are completely cool before adding the cream cheese frosting. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to get creative with your Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting! Here are some variations to consider:
1. Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the bars.
2. Spiced Version: Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for an extra layer of flavor that enhances the holiday feel.
3. Citrus Twist: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep any leftover cranberry bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about a week, allowing you to enjoy them over several days.
– Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to three months. Cut them into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and then place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Special Equipment

To make your baking experience easier, gather the following essential tools:
– Mixing Bowls: A set of mixing bowls in various sizes will help with ingredient preparation.
– Electric Mixer: For efficiently creaming the butter and sugar, an electric mixer is a great time-saver.
– Spatula: A rubber spatula is ideal for folding cranberries into the batter and spreading frosting evenly.
– 9×13-inch Baking Pan: This size pan is perfect for baking the cranberry bars, providing even cooking and easy removal.
– Wire Rack: A wire rack is essential for cooling the bars completely before frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries, but be sure to adjust the sugar as they are often sweeter than fresh cranberries.
How do I cut the bars neatly?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it with a damp cloth between cuts. This prevents sticking and ensures nice edges.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the frosting?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used as a lighter alternative, although the texture and flavor might be slightly different.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for frosting?
If you prefer a different frosting, consider using whipped cream or a simple buttercream. However, the distinct flavor of cream cheese really enhances these bars.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with a sweet, creamy topping. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. With their vibrant appearance and delicious flavor, they will surely become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy making these bars and sharing them with loved ones during the holiday season and beyond!

Print