Cranberry Cream Cheese Bars

Cranberry cream cheese bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the creamy sweetness of cream cheese. This dessert is ideal for holiday gatherings or as a special treat anytime.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cranberry Layer:

2 cups fresh cranberries

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until creamy and fluffy.

Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.

Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.

Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the slightly cooled crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Cranberry Layer

In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and cornstarch.

Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the cranberries begin to burst and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Spread the cranberry mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake the assembled bars in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.

Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles.

Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing.

Fresh cranberries are recommended, but you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are not available.

Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.

Cranberry cream cheese bars are a delicious combination of textures and flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser at any event. Enjoy this festive dessert with friends and family!

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