Cranberry Lemon Bars
Cranberry Lemon Bars are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring a buttery crust, a tart cranberry layer, and a zesty lemon filling. Perfect for gatherings, these bars are a comforting and nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Creates a rich, creamy texture
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, divided Ensures a tender consistency
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness to the crust
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors
Cranberry Layer Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries Provides a burst of tartness
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Ensures a flavorful filling
- 2 tablespoons water Helps the cranberries cook down
Lemon Filling Ingredients
- 4 large eggs Provide structure to the filling
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Makes the filling irresistibly sweet
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice Provides the zesty kick
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest Adds aromatic flavor boost
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Achieves the right thickness
Finishing Touch
- powdered sugar For dusting before serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, flour, sugar, and salt until a crumbly texture is formed.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 20-22 minutes until light golden brown. Let it cool slightly after baking.
Cranberry Layer
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until cranberries burst and mix thickens, about 7-10 minutes.
- Allow the cranberry mixture to cool slightly before spreading it over the warm crust.
Lemon Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and flour until smooth.
- Pour the lemon filling evenly over the cranberry layer in the pan.
Baking
- Bake the assembled bars for 25-28 minutes until the filling is set and slightly jiggles in center. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cool, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, dust with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor, and allow bars to cool completely before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar for beautiful presentation.