Savor these exquisite Cranberry Bars, a festive addition to any holiday table, offering a delightful burst of flavors that perfectly capture the essence of the season!
Ingredients:
2 eggs, room temperature
½ cup butter, room temperature (salted or unsalted)
1½ cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Zest from one medium orange (optional)
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions:
Prep Oven and Pan: Heat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment or foil for easy removal.
Mix Sugar and Butter: Using a mixer, cream together the sugar, butter, and orange zest (if using) until fluffy. Integrate the eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour and baking powder, then gradually fold into the wet ingredients until just mixed.
Fold in Extras: Gently stir in the nuts (if using) and cranberries.
Bake: Transfer the sticky dough to the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 40-50 minutes until the edges are golden.
Cool and Dust: Allow to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and slicing into bars.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 25-30 bars
