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Cranberry Lemon Bars

Irresistibly Easy Cranberry Lemon Bars that Brighten Your Day

Delight in these Cranberry Lemon Bars, a perfect blend of tart and sweet flavors that brighten any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 squares
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • 9 x 9-inch baking pan
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • spatula
  • Sifter
  • parchment paper

Ingredients
  

Shortbread Base

  • ½ cup butter, softened This rich base adds a delightful creaminess.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the crust perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavor profile.
  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour Provides the structure needed for shortbread texture.

Lemon Filling

  • 4 large eggs Gives the filling custard-like quality.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Balances acidity of the lemon.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Intensifies the lemon flavor.
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice Adds tang to the bars.
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour Helps thicken the filling.

Cranberry Layer

  • ½ cup whole-berry cranberry sauce Brings a lush, tart layer.

Optional Topping

  • powdered sugar for dusting Adds a sweet touch.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9 x 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Beat together softened butter and sugar until fluffy, then stir in vanilla and gradually add flour to form dough.
  • Spread shortbread dough in the pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until light golden.
  • Whisk eggs and sugar until frothy, then add lemon zest and juice; stir in flour until smooth.
  • Spread cranberry sauce on the baked crust, followed by pouring lemon filling evenly on top.
  • Return to oven and bake for another 30-35 minutes until filling is set but slightly wobbly in the center.
  • Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight to set.
  • Dust with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and enjoy.

Notes

Allow the bars to cool completely before refrigerating for the best flavor and texture. Using fresh ingredients elevates the flavors significantly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 80mgSugar: 14gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg
Keyword baking, Cranberry Lemon Bars, dessert, easy recipe, Holiday Treat, potluck
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