Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars: Irresistible Holiday Treat

I remember the first time I made Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars. It was a crisp autumn afternoon, and the kitchen was filled with the warm, inviting aroma of butter and orange zest. My family gathered around, eager to taste the new creation. These bars quickly became a staple in our home, a must-have treat for cozy gatherings and festive occasions alike.

What I love most about Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars is their simplicity. The ingredients are basic, yet they come together in a way that feels special and indulgent. Each bite offers a delightful balance of tangy cranberries and the sweet, citrusy notes of orange. These bars remind me of why I started GrandMmaDelights: to celebrate the joy of home cooking and the magic of sharing food with loved ones.

The vibrant flavors of these bars make them an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party or enjoying a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea, Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars never fail to impress. Join me in exploring the delightful world of baking, where simple ingredients transform into something truly extraordinary.

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the perfect blend of tangy cranberries and zesty oranges with our delicious Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars recipe. Learn how to bake these irresistible treats today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5 g)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (227 g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup dried cranberries (130 g)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (60 g)
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice (30 ml)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
4. Add the softened butter to the flour mixture.
5. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
7. Fold in the dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
8. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
11. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with the orange juice until smooth.
12. Drizzle the orange glaze over the cooled shortbread.
13. Allow the glaze to set before cutting into bars.
14. Once set, cut into squares or bars and serve.

Notes

• Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing with the dry ingredients.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan for a well-held together shortbread.
• Adjust the sweetness of the orange glaze to your liking by adding more or less powdered sugar.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 200
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 2g

Keywords: cranberry orange, shortbread bars, holiday dessert, festive treat, citrusy cookie, sweet and tart

Crafting the Perfect Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars

Fundamentals

Before diving into the baking process, it’s important to understand what makes Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars so special. The base of these bars is a classic shortbread, known for its buttery richness and tender crumb. The addition of orange zest and dried cranberries elevates this traditional treat, adding a burst of flavor that complements the buttery base perfectly.

These bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy them as a dessert or a sweet snack throughout the day. Their bright, fruity flavor makes them a standout choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations.

Preparation/setup

To prepare these delightful bars, start by gathering all necessary ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, the zest of 1 orange, 1 cup of dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This setup ensures the bars bake evenly and release easily from the pan.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. This dry mixture lays the foundation for your shortbread. Next, add the softened butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your shortbread.

Baking Techniques for Cranberry Orange Bars

Technique

Once your crumbly base is ready, stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest. These ingredients add depth and a refreshing aroma to the bars. Gently fold in the dried cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step ensures every bite is packed with fruity goodness.

Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan. This ensures the bars hold together once baked. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. This baking time allows the shortbread to develop its signature texture: a delightful balance of crumbly and tender.

Tips/tricks

For the best results, use unsalted butter that is softened but not melted. This helps achieve the perfect crumbly texture. If you find the mixture too dry, a touch more butter can help bind the ingredients without compromising the texture.

To enhance the orange flavor, consider adding a bit more zest or a splash of orange extract. If you prefer a slightly sweeter treat, increase the granulated sugar by a tablespoon or two. These small adjustments allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences.

Perfecting and Customizing Your Shortbread Bars

Perfecting results

After baking, let the bars cool completely in the pan before attempting to remove or cut them. This cooling period is essential for the bars to set properly. While the bars cool, prepare the orange glaze by mixing powdered sugar with freshly squeezed orange juice until smooth.

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled shortbread. This step adds a beautiful finish and an extra burst of citrus flavor. Allow the glaze to set completely before cutting the bars into squares or rectangles. This final touch ensures a visually appealing and deliciously moist dessert.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your shortbread turns out too crumbly, it may need a bit more binding agent. Adding a teaspoon of butter or a splash of milk can help. For those who prefer a nuttier flavor, consider incorporating chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios, similar to what you might find in Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies.

For a different flavor profile, try swapping dried cranberries with another dried fruit, such as cherries or apricots. This simple change can offer a new twist on the classic recipe. You might also explore savory options, taking inspiration from dishes like Grilled Turkey with Cranberry Orange Marinade.

Serving and Storing Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars

Serving/presentation

Presentation plays a key role in making these bars as delightful to the eyes as they are to the taste buds. Arrange the cut bars on a decorative platter, perhaps garnished with a few fresh cranberries or a sprig of mint for added color.

These bars are perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or afternoon tea with friends. Their bright, cheerful appearance and flavor are sure to impress guests. For more serving ideas, you might explore recipes like Cranberry Orange Quick Bread, which also highlights the delightful pairing of cranberries and orange.

Pairings/storage

While these bars stand beautifully on their own, you can pair them with a cup of tea or coffee to enhance their flavors. For a refreshing contrast, try serving them with a chilled glass of sparkling water infused with a splash of orange juice.

To store, keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This method ensures you always have a delightful treat on hand whenever the craving strikes.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a buttery base that melts in your mouth. These bars are not only a joy to make but also a treat to share, embodying the spirit of home-cooked goodness. Their simple preparation and delightful flavor make them a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these bars are an approachable yet impressive choice for any occasion. Embrace the joy of baking with this recipe, and explore other delightful treats like No Bake Peanut Butter Oat Chocolate Energy Bars for more inspiration. The magic of home cooking lies in these simple, heartfelt creations, bringing warmth and joy to any gathering.

FAQs – Cranberry Orange Shortbread Bars