Description
A rich and festive treat that’s perfect for any occasion, these Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting combine a crunchy graham cracker crust, a silky cream cheese center, and a tart cranberry-orange topping for the ultimate holiday dessert bar. Ideal for holiday baking, potluck desserts, or cozy brunch ideas, this easy recipe checks every box for flavor, texture, and presentation. Great for fans of quick desserts, easy recipes, and creative winter food ideas.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
2 cups fresh cranberries (or thawed frozen)
⅓ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 tablespoon cornstarch
(optional) ¼ cup cream cheese frosting for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Press into the bottom of the prepared dish to form a crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Cool slightly.
3. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and egg until smooth. Spread over the cooled crust.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange juice, zest, ⅓ cup sugar, and cornstarch. Stir until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Let cool briefly.
5. Gently spoon the cranberry topping over the cream cheese layer. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the edges are set.
6. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing.
7. For extra richness, spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top before serving (optional).
Notes
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
Let the cranberry topping cool slightly so it spreads evenly without sinking.
For clean slices, chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: cranberry dessert bars, holiday dessert, cream cheese bars, easy dessert recipe, fruit dessert