Description
Delightful dessert balancing tart cranberries with zesty lemons, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fresh cranberries (or frozen, not thawed)
- 1/2 cup water
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (fresh, about 3 lemons)
- Optional: powdered sugar for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Rinse and pick through the cranberries, discarding any that appear bad or squishy.
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, water, and 6 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a splatter screen. Stir occasionally and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until all cranberries break down. Set aside to cool for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there are no gaps. Coat it well with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, vanilla, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and salt until combined. Gradually mix in 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon of flour. Press this thick dough firmly into the prepared pan.
- Bake crust for 16-18 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and poke holes all over the crust with a fork. Allow to cool for about 20 minutes.
- While crust is cooling, prepare lemon layer by mixing 3 tablespoons of flour and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk in eggs and lemon juice.
- Once the crust has cooled, pour the cooled cranberry filling over it, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for 45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Pour lemon layer gently on top of the cranberry layer.
- Bake for 43-45 minutes until the center is set. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.
- Lift the parchment out and cut into squares. Optionally sift powdered sugar over the top before serving.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Don’t overbake. Chill time is crucial to maintain flavor layers.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American