Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent dessert that perfectly balances tangy fruit and rich, velvety cream cheese - all nestled on a buttery, crumbly crust. These Light Cranberry or Cherry Cream Cheese Bars are not just a treat; they're a culinary experience that will transform your ordinary dessert routine into an extraordinary moment of pure deliciousness. Whether you're hosting a brunch, looking for a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, or simply craving a sophisticated sweet bite, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry or cherry preserves
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or hand whisk.
- Add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until a crumbly, soft dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the crust.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Spread the cranberry or cherry preserves evenly over the prepared crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the preserves, carefully spreading it to cover the entire surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 12 even squares.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before serving to allow them to set completely. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are truly softened at room temperature for the smoothest, lump-free mixture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep your crust and filling tender.
- Parchment Paper Trick: The overhanging parchment paper makes removing and cutting bars incredibly easy and mess-free.
- Chilling is Crucial: Allow the bars to set completely in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for the perfect texture and clean cuts.
- Preserve Perfection: Use high-quality cranberry or cherry preserves for the most vibrant flavor. Homemade or artisan preserves work wonderfully.
- Customize Your Bars: Feel free to experiment with different fruit preserves like raspberry or blueberry for unique variations.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 75mg
