Holiday Bars
Holiday Bars are delicious, festive treats featuring a buttery crust topped with fresh cranberries and chopped pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings and sweet snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs; add sugar, flour, 2 teaspoons almond extract, and melted margarine.
- Mix well until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 11 x 15-inch pan.
- Sprinkle cranberries evenly over the top of the dough.
- Add chopped pecans over the cranberries.
- Press the cranberries and nuts slightly into the dough.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, you can substitute with frozen cranberries, but do not thaw them before adding. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the overall taste. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, try using walnuts instead of pecans. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
These holiday bars are perfect for festive gatherings and pair beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. For a dessert platter, consider serving them alongside Farm House Cookies or a slice of Caramel Frosted Fresh Apple Cake. Garnish with powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover holiday bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place bars in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This helps retain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Bars contains roughly 514 calories, with 6g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans add a great flavor and texture, you can easily substitute them with walnuts or almonds. Just make sure to chop them roughly to maintain the crunch. If someone has nut allergies, you can omit the nuts entirely for a delicious, nut-free version.
What can I do if I don't have almond extract?
If almond extract is unavailable, you can replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, try using hazelnut extract for a unique twist. Both substitutes will still bring a lovely aroma to your holiday bars.
Can I freeze these holiday bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).