Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s simple to make and full of festive flavor, these Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Bars are just the thing! They were such a hit at our women’s group holiday party that almost everyone was asking for seconds. With the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tart flavors, they disappeared quickly, and I was a little bummed to not have any left to bring home to my husband! But the rave reviews and requests for the recipe made it all worth it.

This easy-to-make dessert combines creamy cream cheese, sweet cranberry sauce, and crunchy pecans to create a decadent treat. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving something festive, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients:

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious cranberry pecan cream cheese bars:

8 oz cream cheese, softened – This creates a rich and creamy base for the bars.

1/2 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy element that balances the sweetness of the dessert.

1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.

1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce – This provides the tart, fruity component that’s essential for the holiday flavor.

1/2 cup chopped pecans – For some crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy base.

1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk – This gives the bars a sweet, rich texture.

1 egg – Helps set the filling, making it smooth and creamy when baked.

1 package refrigerated pie crusts (optional) – If you prefer a crust for your bars, this will give you a quick and easy base. You can also skip the crust if you prefer a crustless option.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and sweetened condensed milk. Mix everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Add the Egg

Add the egg to the mixture and blend until just incorporated. The egg helps to bind everything together and creates a nice, smooth texture once the bars are baked.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

If you’re using pie crusts, roll out one of the crusts and line a baking dish (9×9 or 9×13 works well). Press it down gently to fit the pan. If you’re skipping the crust, simply pour the cream cheese mixture directly into a greased baking dish.

Once the crust is ready or if you’re going crustless, pour the cream cheese mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out.

Step 4: Add the Cranberry Sauce

Next, spoon the cranberry sauce onto the top of the cream cheese mixture. Use a spoon or knife to gently swirl the cranberry sauce into the mixture. Don’t mix it in completely—allow some of the sauce to remain on top to create that beautiful marbled effect.

Step 5: Add the Pecans

Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top. The nuts will add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor to complement the creamy, tart base.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once your oven is ready, bake the bars for 30-40 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges. The center should not jiggle, but it will still be soft and creamy.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool to room temperature, then transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for about 2 hours. This will help the bars set properly and make them easier to slice.

Once chilled, cut into squares and serve. The bars will be creamy with pockets of tart cranberry sauce and a crunchy, nutty topping. You’ll have a beautifully layered treat that’s perfect for the holidays!

Why This Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Bar is a Hit:

Creamy and Tart: The combination of cream cheese and cranberry sauce provides a perfect balance of creamy richness and tartness. The sour cream adds an extra layer of tanginess to the mix, making the flavor more complex.

Festive Flavor: The cranberry sauce and pecans make these bars feel perfect for the holiday season. Cranberries add the quintessential holiday tartness, and the pecans bring in a nutty crunch that’s always a hit.

Perfect for Sharing: This dessert is perfect for large gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. You can easily make a big batch and it will disappear quickly!

Simple to Make: Even though it looks and tastes decadent, this recipe is easy to prepare. It requires minimal ingredients and no fancy skills, making it perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners.

Serving Suggestions:

As a Holiday Dessert: Serve these cranberry pecan cream cheese bars at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s for a treat that everyone will love. The festive flavors are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

For Potlucks or Parties: These bars are perfect for any occasion where you need a dessert that can be easily shared. They’re simple to slice into portions, and the creamy texture makes them easy to enjoy at any gathering.

With a Dollop of Whipped Cream: For extra decadence, top the bars with a little whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm, creamy, and cold is irresistible.

For a Light Snack: These bars also work well as a sweet treat to accompany a cup of coffee or tea in the afternoon.

Variations:

Berry Swirl: If you prefer a different fruit flavor, you can substitute the cranberry sauce with raspberry, blueberry, or even cherry sauce. Each fruit brings its own unique sweetness and tang to the dish.

Nut-Free Option: If you’re serving guests with nut allergies, you can easily omit the pecans and still have a delicious and creamy dessert. You could even sprinkle some shredded coconut on top for added texture.

Add Spices: To give this dessert an extra warm, cozy flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for a holiday-inspired twist.

Storage:

Store leftover cranberry pecan cream cheese bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the bars for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion:

These Cranberry Pecan Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful and festive dessert that everyone will love. With their creamy filling, tart cranberry sauce, and crunchy pecan topping, they are the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, they’re sure to be a hit every time!

Give this recipe a try and watch it become your new go-to holiday dessert!

Happy baking and enjoy! 🍒🎄

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