First, the name of this dessert is technically ‘not-just-for-thanksgiving cranberry shortbread cake’ but that’s a mouthful I wouldn’t wish upon my worth frenemies.
Second, I know what you’re thinking: shortbread and…. cake? Yes. It IS possible and yes, it is as phenomenal as it sounds.
Cranberries are dolled up with sugar, fresh orange zest and orange juice and cooked down until you have a beautifully thick, dark and sweet/tangy compote. Then it is spread between two layers of shortbread crust and baked until the magic happens in your oven.
I decided to go the square pan route which makes sharing this a bit easier. I also threw in 4 ounces of frozen black cherries and 2 tablespoons of strawberry preserves because I wanted a slightly thicker cranberry filling.
The result: bliss. Buttery delicious shortbread layers sandwich a delightful fruit filling. Amazing. Completely Thanksgiving table-worthy!!
A big thanks goes out to Jessica of Singleton in the Kitchen for choosing this recipe!! I told you I’d get around to it 
Head on over to her blog for the recipe, or simply click here. You’ll want it. Pinky promise.
hmmmm – this totally looks like bliss from here!
the cherries probably really helped to mellow this out. looks yummy!
Great additions to what was already a tasty dessert. Looks perfect.
Oh man, seeing your photos makes me miss this cake. I loved it so much too, and sadly gave most of it away. Granted, I probably would have eaten the entire thing myself had I kept it… Glad it was a hit for you too, this one would have been a bummer to miss!
Oh, I remember how good these were and the added cherries would make them even better! I cut mine in squares as well and was so happy at how nicely they held together for eating.
Why, oh why, did I not make this? Yours looks fantastic!
This is such a fantastic dessert. I made it again today for my quilt group meeting. It met with rave reviews.
terrific squares! bet it was great with the extra fruits in there, too!
As much as I loved this recipe (a lot), your changes sound so good! I love how you made it in a square pan.