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Cranberry Lemon Bars

Cranberry Lemon Bars


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bars

Description

These Cranberry Lemon Bars combine a buttery shortbread crust, a zesty lemon filling, and a vibrant cranberry swirl. Sweet, tangy, and beautiful, they’re perfect for brunches, holidays, or any time you need a bright, refreshing dessert.


Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups cranberries (fresh or thawed from frozen)

1/3 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons water

1 teaspoon cornstarch

4 large eggs

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

2/3 cup fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)


Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook until the berries burst and the mixture thickens. Stir in cornstarch and simmer 1–2 more minutes. Strain through a sieve for a smooth puree. Set aside to cool completely.

2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine butter, flour, sugar, and salt for the crust. Mix until crumbly. Press into the bottom of the pan.

4. Bake the crust for 18–20 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven.

5. In a clean bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Pour over the warm crust.

6. Drop spoonfuls of the cooled cranberry mixture on top. Use a skewer or knife to gently swirl for a marbled look.

7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 22–25 minutes until the center is just set.

8. Let cool to room temperature in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

9. Lift out using parchment, slice into squares, and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip straining the cranberry puree—it gives a clean, smooth swirl.

For best results, use fresh lemons. The zest adds unbeatable aroma.

Chill before slicing to get neat, clean-cut bars every time.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert Bars
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 55mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: lemon bars, cranberry lemon, dessert bars, holiday baking