Description
Welcome, dessert lovers! Today, we’re diving into a treat that blends sweet, tart, and buttery flavors: Irresistible Cranberry Butterscotch Bars. Imagine biting into a chewy, golden base topped with the pop of cranberries and the rich, caramel-like sweetness of butterscotch. Perfect for festive gatherings or a special weekday indulgence, these bars are sure to be a hit! Let’s get baking with this easy, flavorful recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Substitutions and Tips:
- Flour alternatives: For a gluten-free option, try almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
- Butterscotch substitutes: Use white chocolate chips if butterscotch isn’t your favorite.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there’s a slight overhang to make removing the bars easier.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even crust.
Step 3: Add the Cranberries
Spread the cranberries evenly over the crust for a tart and colorful layer.
Step 4: Melt the Butterscotch
Using a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butterscotch chips in 15-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth. Stir in the brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Pour the Butterscotch Layer
Pour the melted butterscotch mixture over the cranberries, ensuring all cranberries are coated.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the butterscotch topping is bubbly and the crust turns golden. Allow the bars to cool before slicing.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Buy Now →Notes
- Fresh Cranberries: Using fresh cranberries is ideal, but frozen cranberries work well if thawed and drained.
- Butterscotch Melting Tip: Melt the butterscotch chips slowly to avoid clumping.