Cranberry Butterscotch Bars

Cranberry Butterscotch Bars are a rich, chewy dessert bar that perfectly balances tart cranberries with sweet, buttery butterscotch. These bars are made with a soft brown sugar cookie base, studded with dried cranberries and butterscotch chips for a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Ideal for holiday baking, potlucks, or cozy afternoons, they bring festive flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and tart flavor combo that’s irresistibly balanced
• One-bowl, no-fuss mixing method
• Perfect for holiday trays and gifting
• Buttery, chewy texture with bursts of cranberry
• Great use for leftover dried cranberries
• Keeps well for days—ideal for make-ahead treats
• Customizable with nuts or spices
• Portable and easy to slice into squares
• No fancy equipment required
• Warm, nostalgic flavor in every bite

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Dried cranberries
• Butterscotch chips

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8 or 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Add eggs and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just incorporated.
6. Fold in the dried cranberries and butterscotch chips.
7. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
9. Cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 16–20 bars (depending on cut size)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: About 40 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy element.
• Spiced Version: Mix in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, holiday touch.
• White Chocolate Swap: Substitute butterscotch chips with white chocolate chips.
• Orange Zest: Add orange zest to complement the cranberries beautifully.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
• Mini Bars: Bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized cranberry butterscotch bites.

storage/reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. Let them come to room temperature before serving, or microwave for a few seconds to soften if desired.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries are preferred for texture and moisture balance. Fresh may add too much moisture, but can be used if chopped and drained well.

Do these bars freeze well?

Yes, they freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

What type of brown sugar should I use?

Light brown sugar works best for a mellow molasses flavor, but dark brown sugar adds more depth if preferred.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just bake it in a 9×13 pan and adjust baking time as needed—check around 30–35 minutes.

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free butterscotch chips if available.

Why are my bars too soft or too dry?

Overbaking can dry them out; underbaking might make them too gooey. Watch closely and test with a toothpick.

Can I add oats for texture?

Yes, replace ¼ cup of the flour with quick oats for a chewier bite.

Are butterscotch chips too sweet?

They are sweet, but balanced nicely by the tart cranberries. You can reduce the amount slightly if desired.

Can I use a different type of fruit?

Dried cherries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots work well as cranberry substitutes.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

The edges will be golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Conclusion

Cranberry Butterscotch Bars are the perfect combination of cozy, chewy, and crave-worthy. Their sweet, tart flavor makes them a standout dessert for holidays, bake sales, or any time you want something comforting and unique. Easy to make and easier to love, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

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