Zesty Cranberry Orange Bars With a Buttery Crust

What kind of recipe is it?

Cranberry Orange Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright citrus flavor of oranges in a chewy, cookie-like bar.

These treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a invigorating and flavorful sweet.

Their vibrant colors and zesty taste make them an appealing option for both kids and adults.

Easy to make and deliciously satisfying, these bars are aimed at anyone looking to impress guests or treat themselves to a unique dessert.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 ½ cups
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Brown sugar	½ cup
Baking powder	1 teaspoon
Salt	½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter	½ cup (1 stick)
Large eggs	2
Fresh cranberries (chopped)	1 cup
Fresh orange zest	1 tablespoon
Fresh orange juice	¼ cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Powdered sugar (for dusting)	Optional, for serving

This list provides all the necessary ingredients to create delicious Cranberry Orange Bars. Adjustments can be made based on personal preferences, but these are the fundamental components that yield the best results.

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Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 175 °C (350 °F) and position the rack in the center of the oven.

Prepare an 8-inch x 8-inch (20 cm x 20 cm) square baking pan by greasing it lightly with unsalted butter or lining it with parchment paper.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 190 g (1 ½ cups) all-purpose flour, 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar, 100 g (½ cup) brown sugar, 5 g (1 teaspoon) baking powder, and 2.5 g (½ teaspoon) salt until well combined.

3. In a large mixing bowl, melt 113 g (½ cup) unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop until completely liquid.

Allow it to cool slightly.

4. Add the 2 large eggs, 15 ml (1 tablespoon) of fresh orange zest, 60 ml (¼ cup) of fresh orange juice, and 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of vanilla extract to the melted butter in the large mixing bowl.

Whisk until smooth and slightly frothy.

5. Gradually fold the dry mixture from step 2 into the wet mixture from step 4 using a rubber spatula.

Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be slightly thick and somewhat lumpy.

6. Gently fold in the 150 g (1 cup) of chopped fresh cranberries until evenly distributed in the batter without crushing them.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with the rubber spatula.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden-brown, the center is set (toothpick inserted should come out clean), and the aroma of cranberries and orange fills your kitchen.

9. Remove the baking pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes.

Then, carefully transfer the bars to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

10. Optionally, dust the cooled bars with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.

Enjoy!

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Variations

Nutty Cranberry Orange Bars: Add 100 g (1 cup) of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for a crunchy texture and added richness.
Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Bars: Substitute all-purpose flour with 190 g (1 ½ cups) of gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-Free Orange Bars: Replace the unsalted butter with 113 g (½ cup) of coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative to make the recipe dairy-free.
Vegan Cranberry Orange Bars: Use 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons of water as an egg substitute and opt for a dairy-free butter alternative or coconut oil to create a vegan version.

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Tips on plating and presentation

Creating an inviting presentation for your Cranberry Orange Bars can enhance their appeal and make them a delightful sight at any gathering.

I recommend serving them on a vibrant platter, garnished with fresh orange slices and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

For an elegant touch, consider adding a drizzle of citrus glaze. Pairing with rosemary sprigs also adds a beautiful contrast to the vibrant colors.

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

Once you’ve got your Cranberry Orange Bars beautifully plated, you might consider what other dishes would complement them at your gathering.

I love pairing them with a light spinach salad topped with walnuts and feta.

For something heartier, serve a savory quiche or roasted vegetables.

These combinations balance the sweetness of the bars and create an inviting spread for your guests.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

What drinks can enhance the delightful flavors of your Cranberry Orange Bars?

I love pairing them with a chilled glass of sparkling wine or a light citrusy cocktail—both really bring out the tartness.

For something non-alcoholic, a crisp ginger ale or a zesty lemonade works wonders too.

These options highlight the bars’ flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried Ones?

Yeah, you can definitely use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones! Just keep in mind they’ll be more tart, so I often add a bit more sugar to balance the flavors. It works great!

How Long Do These Bars Keep in the Refrigerator?

These bars keep in the refrigerator for about a week. I usually wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to preserve their freshness, but I doubt they’ll last that long because they’re just too delicious!

Can I Freeze Leftover Cranberry Orange Bars?

Absolutely, I can freeze leftover cranberry orange bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for about two to three months. Enjoy!

Are There Gluten-Free Substitutes for the Crust?

I use almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free crust. Just mix them with some melted butter and a bit of sweetener. You’ll get a delicious alternative that still holds up nicely.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making These Bars?

When making these bars, I’ve learned to avoid overmixing the crust, not chilling enough before baking, and skipping the zest. Paying attention to these details really enhances the flavor and texture of the final product.