Cranberry Lemon Bars
These Cranberry Lemon Bars offer a delightful burst of flavor, combining tart cranberries and zesty lemon juice for a guilt-free dessert that's light and refreshing.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Forms a light, tender crust.
- 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar Sweetens the crust with a delicate touch.
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Adds richness and moisture.
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
For the filling
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar Balances the tartness of cranberries and lemon.
- 2 large Eggs Creates a smooth filling and helps it set.
- 1/2 cup Fresh Lemon Juice Contributes a vibrant, tangy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Gives the bars a light lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon Lemon Zest Adds aromatic brightness and depth.
- 1 cup Fresh Cranberries Brings a burst of tart flavor and vibrant color.
Instructions
Phase 1 – Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish evenly, forming the crust.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden on the edges.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- While the crust bakes, prepare the filling.
- In a bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, fresh lemon juice, baking powder, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Fold in the fresh cranberries gently to keep them intact.
- Once the crust is finished baking, pour the filling over it and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes.
- You'll know it's done when the filling is set and slightly puffed, with a light golden color on top.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, cut into squares and dust with additional powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve chilled, at room temperature, or slightly warmed.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Notes
For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother filling. Store in an airtight container to preserve the texture and flavor.