Name: Cranberry Lemon Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-490634H37M41S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces fresh cranberries or frozen (not thawed); 1/2 cup water; 6 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons); Optional: powdered sugar for sprinkling on top

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 37 reviews

If you’re looking for a delightfully tangy and sweet treat that brightens any dessert table, this Cranberry Lemon Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the vivid tartness of fresh cranberries with zesty lemon goodness, all layered atop a buttery shortbread crust, these bars are an irresistible balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or any special occasion when you want something refreshing yet comforting, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a show-stopping dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four separate items for baking placed on a rustic wooden surface. On the top left, there is a black pot filled with bright red cranberries and a wooden spoon resting in it. On the top right, a white bowl holds yellow liquid, likely melted butter or oil, with a pile of white flour on one side. Below these, on the bottom left, there is a square baking pan lined with parchment paper and filled with a pale, thin dough layer that fits the pan exactly. On the bottom right, another white bowl contains white sugar along with a smaller amount of white flour or baking powder on top. The scene is well lit with natural light, clear and focused. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Cranberry Lemon Bars Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component plays an essential role, from the sharp cranberries adding vibrant flavor and color, to the crisp shortbread crust providing a buttery base, and the luscious lemon layer delivering that bright, creamy finish.

Fresh cranberries (8 ounces): These bring a natural tartness and beautiful ruby color to the cranberry layer.
Water (1/2 cup): Helps simmer and soften the cranberries, creating a smooth fruit layer.
Granulated sugar (various amounts): Balances tartness in several layers, lending sweetness without overpowering.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): The cornerstone of a rich, flaky shortbread crust.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the crust with subtle warmth and aroma.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch to elevate all the flavors perfectly.
All-purpose flour (1 cup + 1 tablespoon): Provides structure in both the crust and lemon layer while keeping the texture tender.
Large eggs (3): Give body and richness to the lemon layer for that luscious custard-like finish.
Fresh lemon juice (1/2 cup): The key star for bright, zesty lemon flavor that wakes up the palate.
Optional: powdered sugar: A dusting of this adds a pretty, delicate finish before serving.

How to Make Cranberry Lemon Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Layer

Begin by placing the fresh or frozen cranberries with water and 6 tablespoons of granulated sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries soften and burst, stirring occasionally. This process creates a rich, tangy sauce that forms the first luscious layer. Once thickened slightly, set this mixture aside to cool gently while you prepare the crust.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with 1/4 cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir in the 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour until the mixture forms a soft dough. Press this evenly into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking pan, creating a smooth base. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the crust is golden around the edges — this buttery foundation adds the perfect crumbly texture beneath the creamy and tart layers.

Step 3: Add the Cranberry Layer to the Crust

Once the crust is baked and still warm, carefully spread the chilled cranberry mixture evenly on top. The texture should be thick but spreadable, creating a bright and tangy middle layer that contrasts delightfully with the buttery crust below and the lemon topping yet to come.

Step 4: Prepare and Pour the Lemon Layer

In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar and 3 tablespoons flour to ensure the lemon layer thickens just right. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy. Stir in the fresh lemon juice for that signature zing. Pour this velvety lemon mixture gently over the cranberry layer, spreading it with a spatula to cover the fruit evenly. This layer will bake into a smooth, tangy custard finish that makes the bars truly unforgettable.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Return the pan to the oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the lemon layer is set firm to the touch and lightly golden at the edges. Let your bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. For an extra touch of charm, sprinkle powdered sugar on top just before serving — it looks like a delicate snowfall and complements the bright flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Cranberry Lemon Bars Recipe

The image shows a stack of three square lemon and cranberry bars placed on a piece of parchment paper on a wooden surface with powdered sugar dusted all over. Each bar has three clear layers: a pale yellow top layer, a dark red middle layer of cranberry filling, and a light beige bottom layer of crust. The top layer looks smooth and slightly glossy, while the crust looks firm and crumbly. In the foreground, a few whole fresh cranberries are scattered, and in the background, more bars and half a lemon are slightly out of focus. The surface is changed to a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These bars look stunning dusted with powdered sugar, which adds an elegant sweetness and highlights the vibrant lemon-yellow top. For extra flair and flavor, try scattering a few fresh cranberries or thin lemon slices on each bar before serving. A sprig of fresh mint can bring a lovely herbal note and a pop of green color that brightens the presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve these tart and sweet bars alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat. They also pair wonderfully with a light green salad or fresh berries for brunch menus, creating a balanced meal with bursts of freshness alongside the crumbly bars.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bars into mini squares or fun shapes using cookie cutters for festive occasions. Packaging individual bars in clear cellophane with a little ribbon makes lovely homemade gifts. You can also layer them in dessert parfait glasses with whipped cream and fresh fruit for an elegant, deconstructed take on this Cranberry Lemon Bars Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep their bright flavor and moist texture for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead snack or dessert. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.

Freezing

If you want to keep these bars longer, freeze them uncovered on a baking sheet for a couple of hours to set, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

For a freshly baked feel, gently warm the bars in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the layers unevenly and make the crust soggy. Warm bars serve beautifully alongside ice cream or fresh fruit for an extra special dessert experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries can be used straight from the freezer without thawing. They work just as well to provide that tart, vibrant cranberry layer perfect for this recipe.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons? Can I use bottled lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is ideal for the best bright and fresh flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just opt for a quality brand without added preservatives or sugar.

How do I ensure the lemon layer sets properly?

Mixing the sugar and flour thoroughly before adding the eggs helps thicken the lemon layer evenly during baking. Also, baking until the top is just set but not overcooked will ensure a smooth and slightly custardy texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure to use a blend designed for baking to maintain the crust’s texture and the lemon layer’s consistency.

How long do these bars last at room temperature?

Since the lemon and cranberry layers are perishable, it’s best to keep the bars refrigerated if not eaten within 2 hours. This keeps them fresh and safe to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way this Cranberry Lemon Bars Recipe balances tart, sweet, and buttery in every bite. Whether you’re a longtime fan of lemon desserts or just discovering the joy of cranberries paired with citrus, these bars will quickly become a go-to favorite. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I’ve loved doing so. Happy baking!