Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Bright, tangy cranberries and a rich layer of cream cheese frosting come together in these decadent Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting. This dessert is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat with its vibrant red fruit and creamy layers nestled on a buttery, crumbly crust. The tartness of cranberries perfectly complements the sweetness of the cream cheese, making it a balanced indulgence perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth.

Each bite of these bars is a layered experience: the nutty base gives way to a tangy cranberry compote, followed by a lusciously smooth cream cheese layer, all topped off with a fresh cranberry burst. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or a cozy dessert night at home, this recipe promises flavor and texture in every square.

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Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Flavor Balance: Tangy cranberries + sweet creamy frosting = perfection.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The layers and colors make it festive and eye-catching.
• Easy to Share: These bars slice cleanly and travel well.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Great for prepping a day in advance.
• Texture Heaven: Buttery crust, smooth filling, juicy topping — all in one bite.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this dessert together smoothly, having the right tools can make a big difference:

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Essential for getting the perfect bar shape and layered structure.
• Food Processor: Speeds up the crust-making process by evenly mixing dry ingredients and butter.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: For achieving that light and fluffy cream cheese layer.
• Saucepan: Needed to cook down the cranberry compote until thickened.
• Spatula: For smooth layering and spreading without disturbing the layers.
• Cooling Rack: Helps cool the bars evenly before chilling and serving.

Each tool is key for efficiency and consistency in texture, especially when layering.

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Preparation Tips

Before diving in, soften the cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing. When preparing the crust, press it firmly and evenly into the dish to avoid crumbling. While cooking the cranberry filling, stir often to prevent burning and ensure it thickens properly. Chill the bars before slicing to help them set, and use a clean, sharp knife for neat pieces. For extra flair, garnish the top with sugared cranberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.

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Ingredients for this Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

For the crust:

• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for extra crunch)

For the cranberry filling:

• 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cream cheese layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (cold)

Optional topping:

• Extra cranberries (fresh or sugared)
• Dusting of powdered sugar

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Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cubed cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans if using. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool.

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Step 2: Make the Cranberry Filling

While the crust bakes, add cranberries, sugar, and water to a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring often. Once berries begin to burst, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and stir it in. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens. Stir in vanilla extract and set aside to cool slightly.

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Step 3: Whip the Cream Cheese Layer

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Slowly pour in the cold heavy cream and whip until the mixture becomes fluffy and holds soft peaks.

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Step 4: Layer the Bars

Spread half of the cooled cranberry mixture over the crust. Gently spread the cream cheese filling on top, making sure not to mix the layers. Add the remaining cranberry mixture on top and gently spread it out. Garnish with extra cranberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.

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Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results. Once set, slice into squares using a sharp knife cleaned between cuts for tidy slices. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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Notes

These cranberry bars are a wonderful make-ahead dessert, especially during the holiday season. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making them even more delicious the next day. If using frozen cranberries, don’t thaw them—just cook them straight from frozen. The crust can also be pre-baked a day before and stored at room temperature, making the whole process easier.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the chill time: This step is crucial to let the bars set properly for clean slicing.
• Using warm cranberry filling: Spreading it while hot over the cream cheese layer can cause melting and ruin the layers.
• Overmixing the cream cheese filling: It should be fluffy but not runny; stop mixing once soft peaks form.
• Not pressing the crust firmly: A loosely packed crust can crumble and ruin the base.
• Uneven layering: Take your time spreading each layer gently for that perfect layered look.

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Storage Instructions

Store the cranberry bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them (without the garnishes) in a single layer, then transfer to a sealed container. They’ll keep frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge. Always serve them chilled for best texture and flavor.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per bar, assuming 16 servings)

• Calories: 275
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 105mg
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 17g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned cranberry sauce instead of making it fresh?

You can, but fresh cranberry filling offers a brighter flavor and better texture. If using canned, opt for whole berry style.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger pan or two 9×13 dishes. Just adjust baking and cooling times slightly.

Is it okay to use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work great. No need to thaw them before cooking.

How long do they need to chill?

At least 3 hours, but overnight is best for clean cuts and full flavor development.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can try dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream, but texture may vary slightly.

What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between each cut. Chilling the bars well helps keep the layers neat.

Are these suitable for holiday gifts?

Yes! Slice them into squares, place in mini cupcake liners, and box them up for a festive, homemade treat.

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Conclusion

Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a perfect blend of tart, sweet, creamy, and crunchy—ideal for holidays or any special moment. With their stunning appearance and crowd-pleasing flavor, these bars are bound to become a go-to favorite in your dessert lineup. Make them ahead, slice them clean, and watch them disappear at every gathering.

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