Description

Cranberry Shortbread Bars are a delightful dessert that brings together the tartness of fresh cranberries and the rich, buttery flavor of shortbread. This easy recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and steps, making it perfect for any occasion—be it a festive gathering or a cozy night in. The bars can be served warm with ice cream or enjoyed at room temperature, offering versatility for your dessert table. With their inviting texture and delicious flavor combination, these bars are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups softened butter
1 and 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 and 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
3 cups fresh cranberries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray or parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until creamy.
Gradually mix in flour until just combined, then set aside about one-third of the dough.
Press remaining dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Wash cranberries and pat dry; distribute evenly over the dough.
Add walnuts to the reserved dough; crumble over cranberries.
Chill for 20 minutes before baking for 42-45 minutes until golden.
Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
Calories: 290
Sugar: 17g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: For added flavor, try incorporating orange zest into the dough. Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds depending on your preference. These bars can be frozen for up to three months; simply thaw before serving.