Festive and delicious, these Moist Christmas Cranberry Bars are the perfect treat for your holiday festivities. With a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas gathering or just want to indulge in some seasonal treats, these bars make for a wonderful addition to your dessert table.

Why Make This Recipe

The holiday season is a time for sharing joy, love, and of course, delectable food. These cranberry bars stand out with their vibrant color and rich taste that evokes the spirit of Christmas. They are easy to make, and they bring a warm, inviting aroma into your kitchen as they bake. Plus, if you have a family gathering or a festive party on the horizon, these bars are simple to prepare and serve, making them a hit among both kids and adults. With fresh or frozen cranberries at the helm, you can enjoy a taste of the season at any time.

How to Make Moist Christmas Cranberry Bars

Baking these Moist Christmas Cranberry Bars is a straightforward process. In just a few steps, you can create a comforting treat that embodies the flavors of the holidays. Below is a complete guide to prepare these scrumptious bars.

Ingredients

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, mix the cranberries with 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar and set aside.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and the remaining sugar together until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the cranberries and nuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan before cutting into bars. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Pro Tips for Success with Moist Christmas Cranberry Bars

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh cranberries. They provide a better flavor and texture. If you use frozen, make sure not to thaw them prior to mixing.
Check Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early. You want the edges to be golden and the center to be set.
Cream the Butter and Sugar Well: This step is crucial for achieving the right texture. The mixture should be light and fluffy, which helps in creating a moist bar.
Measure Flour Correctly: Avoid packing the flour into the measuring cup. Instead, spoon it in and level it off for accurate measurement to avoid dense bars.
Add Zest: For an extra zing, consider adding a little lemon or orange zest to the batter. It complements the cranberries beautifully.

Flavor Variations for Moist Christmas Cranberry Bars

Add Citrus: Incorporate orange or lemon zest to brighten the flavors and add a fresh twist.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a more festive taste.
Chocolate Chips: For a rich touch, try folding in some semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the cranberries.
Different Nuts: Switch out the chopped nuts for pecans or walnuts to give a different texture and flavor.
Coconut Flakes: Mixing in shredded coconut can create a tropical holiday treat that pairs beautifully with cranberries.

Serving Suggestions for Moist Christmas Cranberry Bars

These cranberry bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

Coffee Companion: These bars pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
Holiday Dessert Platter: Serve them on a dessert platter alongside other holiday treats like cookies and cakes to create an inviting sampling for guests.
Breakfast Treat: They can also be served as a quick breakfast option, especially when topped with yogurt or whipped cream.
Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh cranberries and mint leaves for a festive presentation when serving at holiday gatherings.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Moist Christmas Cranberry Bars

To keep your Moist Christmas Cranberry Bars fresh:

Storage: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for about a week.
Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to 3 months. Cut them into squares before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|——————-|—————-|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 95mg |

FAQ About Moist Christmas Cranberry Bars

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

While fresh or frozen cranberries provide a juicy texture and tartness, you can use dried cranberries if needed. However, reduce the sugar slightly to account for the extra sweetness in dried fruits. You might also want to soak dried cranberries in warm water for a few minutes to plump them up before adding them to the mixture.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, mashed bananas, or even flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes). Each will provide moisture and binding similar to eggs.

Is it necessary to dust with powdered sugar before serving?

Dusting with powdered sugar is optional, but it adds a lovely touch of sweetness and enhances the visual appeal of the bars. If you prefer not to add sugar, the bars are still delicious as is!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be baked a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store them properly to maintain freshness. They often taste even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How can I tell when the bars are done baking?

The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bars are done. If it has wet batter stuck to it, they need more time in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Baking these Moist Christmas Cranberry Bars during the holiday season is a delightful way to bring a touch of warmth and joy to your celebrations. They embody the spirit of the season with their festive flavors and beautiful presentation. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as part of a holiday dessert spread, these cranberry bars are sure to impress friends and family alike. So gather your ingredients, turn up the holiday tunes, and start baking! Happy Holidays!