Cranberry Lemon Squares Recipe

A burst of tart cranberry and zesty lemon in every bite! This irresistible dessert elevates the classic cranberry bar with a sophisticated twist. Inspired by a beloved recipe, these squares boast a buttery shortbread crust, a jewel-toned cranberry filling, and a tangy lemon topping that will leave you craving more. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion!

Prep Time 30 mins

Cook Time 125 mins

Calories 124.7 kcal

Protein 3g

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Cranberry Lemon Squares

Dried Cranberries
Cold Water
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
All Purpose Flour
Unsalted Butter
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
Vanilla Extract
Fresh Lemon Juice
zest of 1 lemon

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How to Make Cranberry Lemon Squares

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.
**Make the Cranberry Filling:** In a small saucepan, combine 12 ounces (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries and 1/4 cup (60ml) water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring frequently, for 25 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the cranberries have softened. Coarsely chop the cranberries and set aside.
**Make the Bottom Crust:** In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar and 3/4 cup (90g) all-purpose flour. Cut in 1/2 cup (113g) cold unsalted butter, using a pastry blender or your fingers, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
**Make the Lemon Topping:** In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice, and the zest of 1 lemon. Add 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour and whisk until just combined.
Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
Spread the cranberry mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Pour the lemon mixture over the cranberry layer.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden brown.
Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set completely before cutting into squares.
Store in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

46g

Fat

14g

Carbs

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Sweets & Sides Desserts Steak Recipes Salmon Recipes Shrimp Recipes Tuna Recipes American Vegetarian Fall Recipes Holiday Recipes Baking

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation For Large Groups Low Protein Desserts Fruit Cookies And Brownies Bar Cookies Dietary Low Sodium Low In Something Berries Number Of Servings 4 Hours Or Less

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Cranberry Lemon Squares?

Cranberry Lemon Squares takes about 155 minutes from start to finish — roughly 30 minutes to prepare and 125 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Cranberry Lemon Squares?

Cranberry Lemon Squares has approximately 124.7 calories per serving, with about 3 g protein, 6 g carbohydrates and 7 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Cranberry Lemon Squares?

The key ingredients for Cranberry Lemon Squares are Dried Cranberries, Cold Water, Powdered Sugar, All Purpose Flour, Unsalted Butter, Eggs. See the full list with measurements above.