These cranberry bars are the kind of dessert you make once for a holiday party… and immediately everyone asks for the recipe. They’re sturdy enough for potlucks, easy to transport, slice beautifully, and deliver the perfect balance of sweet, tart, buttery flavor. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, bringing a dessert to the office, or simply craving a seasonal treat to enjoy with a warm drink, these bars never disappoint. Below is a full, detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions, tips, variations, and all the little tricks that make them turn out perfect every single time.
Why These Cranberry Bars Are a Holiday Favorite
There’s something magical about cranberries at Christmastime. Their bright red color, natural tartness, and ability to shine whether fresh or dried make them a star ingredient in many holiday desserts. These cranberry bars combine that tart flavor with a buttery shortbread crust and a soft, chewy center that’s just sweet enough.
The base is sturdy, the topping is tender, and the cranberries distribute beautifully in every bite. Best of all, they hold their shape extremely well, making them great for gift boxes, dessert platters, or events where people will be serving themselves.
Now let’s get into the ingredients and steps.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust
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1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
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2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cranberry Filling
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3 large eggs
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1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
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1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
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