As the holiday season approaches, I find myself searching for delightful treats that bring joy to my family and friends. That’s where my Cranberry Shortbread Bars come in! These bars are not just a dessert; they’re a warm hug on a plate. With their buttery richness and tart cranberries, they’re perfect for busy days when you want to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use those vibrant cranberries that scream “festive!” Trust me, these bars will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Shortbread Bars
These Cranberry Shortbread Bars are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just 45 minutes, making them a quick solution for unexpected guests or holiday gatherings. The buttery texture paired with the tartness of cranberries creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can whip them up without breaking a sweat!
Ingredients for Cranberry Shortbread Bars
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cranberry Shortbread Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This is the star of the show, providing that rich, buttery flavor. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It balances the tartness of the cranberries and helps achieve that lovely texture.
- All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your bars, giving them structure. You can also use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making each bite more delicious.
- Dried cranberries: These little gems add a burst of tartness and color. Feel free to swap them with dried cherries or apricots for a twist!
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile, making your bars irresistible.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Cranberry Shortbread Bars
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Cranberry Shortbread Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will help your bars come out easily once they’re baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is essential for creating a tender texture in your bars. It incorporates air into the butter, making your shortbread light and delightful.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Next, mix in the vanilla extract. This simple addition elevates the flavor, adding warmth and depth to your Cranberry Shortbread Bars. Trust me, you’ll want that extra touch of deliciousness!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this can lead to tough bars. We want them to be soft and crumbly, just like a good shortbread should be!
Step 5: Fold in Cranberries
It’s time to fold in those chopped dried cranberries. Use a spatula to gently incorporate them into the dough. This technique ensures that the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving every bite a burst of tartness.
Step 6: Spread and Bake
Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect golden hue!
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This step is important because it helps them set properly. When they’re cool, cut them into squares or rectangles for serving. You can even sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for a festive touch!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the bars hold their shape.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for clean edges.
- Experiment with different dried fruits for unique flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for these bars. If you don’t have one, a similar-sized dish will work.
- Mixing bowls: Use any size you have on hand; just make sure they’re large enough for mixing.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula is great for folding in ingredients. A wooden spoon works too!
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy. If you’re in a pinch, use a kitchen scale.
Variations of Cranberry Shortbread Bars
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft bars.
- Chocolate Twist: Mix in some mini chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the tart cranberries.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Combine dried cranberries with other dried fruits like apricots or raisins for a colorful and flavorful mix.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Shortbread Bars
- Pair with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Present on a festive platter, dusted with powdered sugar for a beautiful touch.
- Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
FAQs about Cranberry Shortbread Bars
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
While fresh cranberries are delicious, they’re much more tart. If you want to use them, consider adding a bit more sugar to balance the flavors. Dried cranberries are perfect for these Cranberry Shortbread Bars because they add sweetness and chewiness.
How should I store the bars?
Store your Cranberry Shortbread Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months!
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead of time. Just bake them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container. They’ll be ready to serve when you need a quick dessert for guests.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Just make sure it’s softened for the best texture in your Cranberry Shortbread Bars.
Can I add more flavors to the bars?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even add a splash of orange zest for a citrusy twist. The possibilities are endless with these Cranberry Shortbread Bars!
Final Thoughts
Making Cranberry Shortbread Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of sharing these delightful treats with family and friends during the holidays is truly special. Each bite is a reminder of warmth, love, and togetherness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these bars bring a festive spirit to any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and let the aroma of buttery shortbread and tart cranberries fill your kitchen. Trust me, this recipe will become a cherished tradition in your home!
Print
Cranberry Shortbread Bars: A Delicious Holiday Treat!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry Shortbread Bars are a delightful holiday treat that combines the buttery richness of shortbread with the tartness of cranberries, making them perfect for festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped cranberries.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
- For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Feel free to substitute dried cranberries with other dried fruits like cherries or apricots.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Cranberry Shortbread Bars, Holiday Treat, Dessert, Baking