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+ servings
Lemon Cranberry Bars

Lemon Cranberry Bars: A Tart & Buttery Holiday Delight

Lemon Cranberry Bars combine tart cranberries and zesty lemons for a refreshing dessert perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 9 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Cranberry Layer
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries can use frozen without thawing
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar adjust according to taste
For the Shortbread Crust
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or imitation vanilla
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour can substitute gluten-free flour
For the Lemon Layer
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice opt for fresh for best results
  • 1 cup granulated sugar optional for dusting on top

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • 8x8-inch baking dish
  • wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Cranberry Layer by rinsing fresh cranberries under cold water; combine cranberries with water and sugar in a saucepan, cooking until cranberries burst.
  2. Make the Shortbread Crust by preheating oven to 350°F. Combine melted butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt in a bowl; stir in flour to form a dough and press it into a baking dish.
  3. Assemble the Layers by pouring cooled cranberry mixture over crust, spreading evenly, and refrigerating for about 45 minutes.
  4. Create the Lemon Layer by whisking together eggs, granulated sugar, flour, and lemon juice; pour over cranberry layer.
  5. Bake in preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until lemon layer is set. Cool completely and then refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours.
  6. Serve chilled, dusted with powdered sugar, cut into squares, and enjoy at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust sweetness to taste. Allow bars to chill thoroughly before serving for neat cuts.

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