# Holiday Cranberry Lemon Bars: A Festive Guide
**Introduction**
The holiday season calls for a medley of flavors that can light up any festive gathering. Our Holiday Cranberry Lemon Bars does just that and more! With the zesty tang of lemons and the sweet-tart taste of cranberries baked into a buttery crust, these bars are a holiday must-have.
**Why Make this Recipe**
These bars are not just vibrant and festive in looks, but they are packed with antioxidants thanks to the cranberries, while lemon lends a refreshing tang. Plus, this recipe is simple to make and delivers a flavorful result that will impress all your guests.
**How to make Holiday Cranberry Lemon Bars**
**Ingredients**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour (for the crust)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the crust)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt (for the crust)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for the crust)
– 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed) (for the filling)
– 1 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
– 2 large eggs (for the filling)
– Zest of 1 lemon (for the filling)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (for the filling)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for the filling)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (for the filling)
**Directions**
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), grease an 8×8 inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust by combining flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter to form coarse crumbs, press this mixture into the baking pan and bake for 15 minutes.
3. For the filling, blend together cranberries and sugar. Whisk together the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, and baking powder and stir in the cranberry mixture.
4. Pour this filling over the hot crust, spread evenly, and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Allow the bars to cool for an easy cut into perfect shapes.
**How to Serve Holiday Cranberry Lemon Bars**
Once cooled, dust these tangy bars with powdered sugar for an elevated look then serve at room temperature, as a dessert after your holiday feast, a sweet snack for guests dropping by, or even as a sweet holiday breakfast.
**How to Store Holiday Cranberry Lemon Bars**
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature, they will maintain their freshness for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week.
**Tips to Make Holiday Cranberry Lemon Bars**
– Use fresh lemon juice for the zesty tang.
– For easy removal of the bars from the pan, make sure the parchment paper extends over the edges of the pan.
– Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into them to maintain their shape.
**Variations (If Any)**
– Substitute the cranberries for raspberries or blueberries for a twist.
– To make it gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
**FAQs**
1. **Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones?**
No, fresh or frozen cranberries are recommended for this recipe to achieve the right balance of sweetness and tartness.
2. **Can I freeze these bars for later use?**
Yes! Simply wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw out in the refrigerator before serving.
3. **Can I make these gluten-free?**
Yes. Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
So, with the holiday season around the corner, try these bright and festive Holiday Cranberry Lemon Bars and add a burst of color and flavor to your festive table!