Hello food lovers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe that combines the festive flavors of the holiday season with the creamy goodness of cheesecake: The Best Holiday Cranberry Cheesecake Bars. These delectable bars are the perfect treat to indulge in during the holidays or to bring as a crowd-pleasing dessert to your next gathering. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends over the sides for easy removal later.
To make the crust, combine 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 3 tablespoons of melted butter in a bowl. Mix well until the crumbs are moistened. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer or a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and mix well. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Next, fold in the fresh and dried cranberries, along with the pecans (if using). The addition of the cranberries gives these cheesecake bars a beautiful pop of color and a delightful tanginess that complements the creaminess of the cheese.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust. Smooth it out with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Bake the cheesecake bars for about 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly golden. The edges should look slightly firm, but the center should still have a bit of jiggle. Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing and serving.
Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish. Cut them into squares or bars, and dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
These Holiday Cranberry Cheesecake Bars are best served chilled. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to a few days, covered tightly.
Not only are these bars a treat for your taste buds, but they also make a visually appealing addition to any holiday table. The combination of the red cranberries and the creamy cheesecake creates a beautiful contrast that is sure to impress.
So, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking for a special dessert to enjoy with your family, give these Best Holiday Cranberry Cheesecake Bars a try. They’re a celebration of the season in every bite!
I hope you all have a wonderful holiday filled with delicious treats and lots of joy. Happy baking!
Remember, food is not just about nourishment; it’s a way to bring people together and create memories. So, get in the kitchen, have some fun, and let the holiday spirit inspire your culinary adventures. Until next time, keep feasting and making merry! 😀
Cheers,
