Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Tart, sweet, and irresistibly creamy, these Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the dessert your holiday table didn’t know it needed. A buttery pecan crust sets the stage for luscious layers of cranberry compote, silky cream cheese, and a vibrant crown of juicy cranberries. It’s a show-stopping treat that’s as festive as it is flavorful.

Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter gathering, these bars deliver a balance of tang and sweetness that’s just right. Plus, they’re make-ahead friendly and easy to slice and serve. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or craving something cozy on a chilly night, this recipe checks all the boxes.

What Kind of Cranberries Work Best for These Bars?

Fresh or frozen whole cranberries are ideal for this dessert. They hold their shape beautifully during cooking, releasing juices that meld into the creamy filling without turning soggy. Frozen cranberries are a great year-round option since they maintain tartness and color, even after baking.

Ingredients for the Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Whole Cranberries: Bring that bold pop of tartness and jewel-like color to each bite.
• Cream Cheese: The foundation of the rich frosting and creamy middle layer.
• Graham Crackers or Pecan Cookie Crumbs: Form the buttery, nutty base layer.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust and adds decadent richness.
• Granulated Sugar: Used to balance the tart cranberries and sweeten the frosting.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a molasses note to the cranberry layer.
• Heavy Cream: Helps smooth out the cream cheese for a fluffy, pipeable frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the sweet and tart flavors.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the cranberry layer for a jammy texture.

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How To Make the Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Crush graham crackers or pecan cookies into fine crumbs, then combine with melted butter and press into the bottom of a baking dish. Bake at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Layer

Simmer cranberries with sugar, brown sugar, a splash of water, and cornstarch until thick and jammy. Let it cool slightly before layering.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat cream cheese, sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. This forms the creamy layer between the crust and cranberry topping.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Once the crust is cooled, spread a portion of the cranberry mix, then layer the cream cheese mixture. Top with more cranberry compote and fresh cranberries.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow everything to set. Slice into squares and enjoy chilled.

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How to Store and Serve Cranberry Bars

These bars are best served chilled, making them a fantastic make-ahead option. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Let thaw in the fridge before serving.

What to Serve With Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Hot Mulled Cider

A warm and spiced drink balances the tart cranberry with cozy apple flavors.

White Chocolate Mocha

Creamy and sweet, it enhances the tangy flavor of the bars.

Brie and Crackers

Add a savory cheese plate to contrast the dessert’s richness.

Roasted Turkey Sliders

These mini sandwiches make for a festive combo during holiday gatherings.

Maple Glazed Carrots

Earthy and sweet sides that mirror the fall flavor theme.

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Want More Dessert Ideas with a Fruity Twist?

If you love these Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’re in for a treat with these Savor Queen favorites:

• White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake for creamy berry bliss.
• Blueberry Delight with layers of fruit, cream, and crunch.
• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for a rich and fruity indulgence.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for a sweet shortcut to satisfaction.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for portable, tangy delights.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe swapped in orange zest or added a white chocolate drizzle? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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