Cranberry Slices are a delightful and festive treat that brings a burst of tangy cranberry flavor into every bite. This recipe features a buttery, slightly sweet shortbread base topped with a vibrant cranberry filling, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The slices are easy to make and bake up with a lovely, golden crust and a jewel-like cranberry topping that’s both eye-catching and delicious. Ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a sweet snack, these Cranberry Slices offer a sophisticated twist on classic dessert bars and are sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Ingredients:
For the Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cranberry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Base: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Prepare the Cranberry Filling: While the base is baking, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the cranberries begin to burst, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to form a slurry and stir it into the cranberry mixture. Continue to cook until the filling thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble and Bake: Once the base is baked and slightly cooled, spread the cranberry filling evenly over the top. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the cranberry layer.
- Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cranberry filling is set and the topping is golden brown.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the Cranberry Slices to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares or bars.
These Cranberry Slices are a festive and flavorful treat that beautifully capture the essence of the season, offering a sweet-tart combination that will brighten any occasion. Enjoy with a cup of tea or as a delightful end to a holiday meal!
