I have to tell you, pecan cranberry bars are one of those delightful recipes that just scream “holiday cheer!” Whenever I make them, I’m flooded with memories of family gatherings where these treats were the star of the dessert table. The sweet, tart cranberries combined with the nutty crunch of pecans and a drizzle of glaze on top? Honestly, it’s a match made in heaven!
These bars are not just tasty but incredibly versatile too. You can whip them up for a festive occasion, a potluck, or just as a cozy afternoon snack with coffee. I’m convinced they would have everyone asking, “What’s your secret?” Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious treat!
What’s in Pecan Cranberry Bars with Glaze?
Cranberries: Fresh or dried, cranberries offer a zesty pop of flavor that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the bars. I love using fresh cranberries when I can find them during the holiday season; they really do elevate the dish!
Pecans: These crunchy nuts bring a satisfying texture and earthy flavor to the bars. I tend to use raw pecans and toast them lightly to enhance their nuttiness. Just be careful not to let them burn—trust me, I speak from experience!
Brown Sugar: This is where the sweetness comes in! Not only does it sweeten the bars, but it adds a subtle caramel flavor that complements the cranberries perfectly. I use light brown sugar, but dark brown will work too if you’re feeling adventurous.
Butter: A buttery base is essential for that rich flavor and moist texture. I usually go for unsalted butter, so I can control the salt in my recipe.
Flour: All-purpose flour holds everything together nicely, making these bars chewy and dense in all the right ways.
Powdered Sugar: This is the star of the glaze! It adds sweetness without being overly cloying and creates that beautiful smooth finish on top of the bars.
Is Pecan Cranberry Bars with Glaze Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about health. Pecan cranberry bars can be a bit indulgent (hey, they’re a treat, after all), but they do have some redeeming qualities.
Cranberries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants, which are great for your immune system. They may even help with heart health—so you’re kind of doing yourself a favor by indulging in this dessert!
Pecans: They are high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full. Plus, they contain vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for your body.
Of course, with the sugar and butter, moderation is key! Enjoy these bars as an occasional treat rather than an everyday snack.
Ingredients
– 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries (if you’re using dried, make sure they’re unsweetened)
– 1 cup pecans, chopped (lightly toasted if desired)
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for the glaze)
– 2-3 tablespoons milk (for the glaze)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
This recipe yields about 12 bars, depending on how generous you are with your portions!
How to Make Pecan Cranberry Bars with Glaze?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a bit of an overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want our bars to remain chewy!
4. Fold in the chopped pecans and cranberries gently. You want them evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
6. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then use the parchment to lift it out and cool completely on a wire rack.
7. While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and milk until you reach your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
8. Once the glaze has set briefly, cut into squares and serve!
More Ways to Enjoy These Bars!
I love the flexibility of this recipe! You can swap cranberries for dried cherries or even raisins if cranberries aren’t your thing. Also, sprinkle a little cinnamon into the batter for a warm, spicy flavor that would pair beautifully with the nutty and fruity notes.
These bars are also fantastic with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! Imagine indulging in a warm bar with ice cream melting right over it—pure bliss!
So, have I convinced you to give these Pecan Cranberry Bars a try? I promise, once you taste them, you’ll want to make them a recurring treat in your kitchen. They’re indulgent, visually stunning, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Enjoy making and sharing them, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Happy baking!