Go Back
–+ servings
Cranberry Orange Crumb Bars

Cranberry Orange Crumb Bars – A Festive Creamy Delight

Cranberry Orange Crumb Bars are a delicious blend of tart cranberries and creamy cheesecake, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free variation.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Adjust to taste in the cheesecake layer.
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder Ensure it's fresh for best rise.
  • 1/4 tsp Salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Can be replaced with dairy-free butter for dairy-free option.
For the Filling
  • 2 Eggs Can substitute with suitable egg replacer for vegan option.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Swap with dairy-free cream cheese for non-dairy option.
  • 1 tbsp Orange Zest Fresh is best.
  • 1 cup Fresh Cranberries Frozen cranberries are a good alternative.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Opt for high-quality extract for better results.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar Optional for dusting before serving.

Equipment

  • 9x9 inch square baking dish
  • mixing bowls
  • Saucepan
  • Pastry cutter

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inches baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the unsalted butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Press 2/3 of the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  4. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth.
  5. Pour the creamy mixture over the pressed crust.
  6. In a small saucepan, combine fresh cranberries and a splash of water over medium heat until they burst and thicken.
  7. Swirl the cranberry mixture into the cheesecake layer.
  8. Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over the top and bake for 35-40 minutes.
  9. Let cool for 20 minutes, then refrigerate for 2 hours before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chill the bars for cleaner cuts. Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!