- Unsalted Butter (¾ cup, cold, cut into small pieces)
- Brown Sugar (⅔ cup, light or dark)
- Baking Powder (1 tablespoon)
- Salt (¼ teaspoon)
- Egg Yolks (2) – For binding
- Granulated Sugar (1 to 2 tablespoons) – Optional, for dusting
*Note: Optimize your recipe by using these SEO-friendly keywords and phrases in the content:
- Cranberry raisin squares
- Dessert recipe
- Holiday treats
- Fall baking
- Easy dessert
- Baking tips
- Winter desserts
Steps
### Cranberry Raisin Squares Dessert Recipe
**Introduction:**
Cranberry Raisin Squares are a delightful holiday treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of raisins. This recipe is perfect for those looking to create a festive dessert with minimal fuss. Below, you'll find detailed steps and SEO-friendly tips to help you make this delicious dessert.
**Ingredients:**
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup seedless raisins
**Equipment Needed:**
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie cutter or a knife for cutting the squares
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of the square cookies after baking.
#### Step 2: Create the Crust Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix well to ensure there are no lumps.
Add the cold butter pieces into the mixture and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work them together until you achieve a coarse crumb texture. You can also use a food processor for this step if preferred.
#### Step 3: Add Cranberries and Raisins
Fold in the dried cranberries and seedless raisins into the crumb mixture gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout without breaking up the pieces too much.
#### Step 4: Press the Mixture into the Pan
Transfer the crumb mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out into an even layer that’s about 1/2 inch thick. Ensure you cover the entire surface of the parchment paper, pressing down firmly with a rolling pin if necessary.
#### Step 5: Bake and Cool
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. The center should still be slightly softer but not raw.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
#### Step 6: Cutting and Serving
After cooling, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the cranberry raisin square dessert into desired shapes. Serve immediately for best texture, or store in an airtight container at room temperature if you want them to last longer.
### Tips for Success:
- **Use Cold Butter:** Ensures a flaky and crumbly texture.
- **Even Spreading:** A smooth layer results in evenly baked squares.
- **Cooling Time:** Allowing the squares to cool completely ensures they’re easier to handle when cutting.
**SEO-Friendly Keywords:**
- Cranberry Raisin Squares
- Holiday Desserts
- Christmas Baking Recipes
- Easy Cookie Recipes
- Gluten-Free Dessert
### Conclusion:
Cranberry Raisin Squares are a simple yet impressive treat for any festive occasion. Perfect for sharing, these cookies offer a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness that will please both kids and adults alike. Enjoy making this recipe and share your creations using the hashtag #CranberryRaisinSquares.