Can I use dried cranberries instead?

You can, but fresh or frozen cranberries give that bright, tangy contrast that really defines these bars. If using dried, soak them briefly in warm water or orange juice first.

Can I make these Christmas Cranberry Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely. They actually taste better the next day once the flavors settle in.

How do I store leftovers?

Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them if your kitchen runs warm.

Can I freeze Cranberry Bars?

Yes! Slice them, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

5 Easy Cranberry Bars That Feel Pure Joy

Description

Soft, buttery Cranberry Bars layered with a sweet-tart cranberry filling and topped with a golden crumb topping. This cozy dessert is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something comforting and festive.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Layer

1 stick unsalted butter, softened (plus more for greasing pan)
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
Zest of 1 orange, finely grated
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup full-fat sour cream
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

Cranberry Layer

1 additional cup fresh or frozen cranberries

Crumb Topping

1 cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
1 stick unsalted butter, cold and cubed
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C) and generously butter a 9-inch square baking pan.
In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
Beat softened butter, sugar, and orange zest until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well and scraping the bowl between additions. Stir in vanilla.
Add dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with sour cream, starting and ending with flour.
Gently fold in 1 cup cranberries and spread batter evenly into prepared pan.
Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cranberries over the batter.
For the crumb topping, mix flour, sugars, salt, and cold butter until coarse crumbs form. Stir in vanilla.
Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over the cranberries.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, until lightly golden and set in the center.
Cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

Frozen cranberries work perfectly—no need to thaw.

For extra sweetness, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Bars slice best once fully cooled.

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 26 g
Sodium: 170 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg