Creamy Cranberry Orange Crumb Bars feature a golden buttery crust, a smooth citrus-kissed cream layer, and a vibrant cranberry filling, all finished with a crumbly topping. Each bite delivers contrast: crisp and creamy, sweet and tart, soft and structured.

Some desserts feel like a season wrapped in parchment paper. Cranberry Orange Crumb Bars belong to that category. They’re bright yet comforting, tangy yet creamy, and rich without being heavy. The combination of tart cranberries and fragrant orange zest has long been a holiday classic, but when layered with a buttery crumb base and a creamy filling, it becomes something unforgettable.

These bars were designed for moments when you want a dessert that looks elegant but feels nostalgic—something you’d bring to a gathering, slice carefully, and watch disappear faster than expected. They’re perfect for winter baking, festive tables, or simply when you crave that citrus-and-berry harmony.

Why These Bars Are Always a Hit

Perfect balance of sweet and tart
Ideal for holidays and special occasions
Slice cleanly and transport well
Make-ahead friendly
Stunning color contrast

Ingredients

For the Crumb Base & Topping

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 orange
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 large egg

For the Creamy Orange Layer

8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cranberry Layer

1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
½ cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon orange juice

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest.
Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Mix in egg until dough forms crumbs.
Press two-thirds of mixture firmly into prepared pan.
Bake crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
Beat cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add egg, orange juice, and vanilla.
Spread cream layer evenly over warm crust.
Toss cranberries with sugar, cornstarch, and orange juice.
Spoon cranberry mixture over cream layer.
Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture on top.
Bake 35–40 minutes until set and golden.
Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Baking Tips for Perfect Bars

Chill before slicing for clean edges
Fresh cranberries give best texture
Adjust sugar if berries are very tart
Store chilled for best creaminess

Serving Suggestions

Dust lightly with powdered sugar
Serve with whipped cream
Pair with hot tea or coffee
Add orange zest garnish

Storage & Make-Ahead

Refrigerate up to 5 days
Freeze bars individually up to 2 months
Thaw overnight in fridge