Name: Softest Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 2 h
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup white chocolate chunks; 3/4 cup dried cranberries; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup dried cranberries (for topping); 1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (for drizzle)

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery goodness of blondies with the tartness of cranberries, look no further than these Softest Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars. Perfectly chewy and covered in a luscious cream cheese frosting, these bars are an excellent addition to any gathering, holiday spread, or a simple afternoon snack. The fusion of sweet dried cranberries and white chocolate chunks in a soft blondie base makes every bite a delightful experience. The festive colors also add a visual appeal, making them a must-try for your dessert table!

These bars are not just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to make! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress your family and friends. If you’re wondering about their versatility, they can be served at various occasions ranging from cozy coffee shop-style snacks at home to quick breakfast bites or even festive holiday gatherings. With under an hour of prep and baking time, you can whip up a batch to enjoy with your morning coffee or impress your guests at the next potluck.

Moreover, by using simple ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and cranberries, you can create a treat that feels indulgent without the need for complex techniques or hard-to-find items. So, let’s get started on making these delicious Softest Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars that are destined to become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Softest Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars

Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and tangy combination of dried cranberries and white chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven.
Simple Preparation: Made with commonly found ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve them at a family brunch, holiday party, or simply enjoy them at home, they’ll be a hit!
Visual Appeal: The colorful cranberries and white chocolate drizzle make these bars a visually stunning addition to any dessert table.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into baking, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and assemble all necessary tools. Here’s what you’ll need: a 9×13-inch baking pan, parchment paper, an electric mixer, mixing bowls, and measuring cups and spoons. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when your batter is ready. Line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make removing the bars easier later on. Greasing the sides lightly will also help prevent sticking.

In terms of preparation, getting all your ingredients to room temperature is essential for a smooth batter. So, take out the butter, eggs, and cream cheese ahead of time. Make sure to measure your dry ingredients accurately, as baking is a science. Preparing your workspace by having your tools and ingredients organized will streamline the baking process, making it enjoyable and efficient.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup white chocolate chunks
3/4 cup dried cranberries
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup dried cranberries (for topping)
1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (for drizzle)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Be sure to grease the sides lightly to facilitate easier removal after baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until you achieve a light and fluffy texture. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. Creaming is vital, as it helps to incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter bar.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring thorough incorporation after each addition. Follow up with the vanilla extract and fragrant orange zest. The orange zest adds a lovely citrus note and enhances the overall flavor profile, so don’t skip this step!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed within the flour mixture for a balanced rise in your bars.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this could result in dense bars. The mixture should be thick but smooth.

Step 6: Fold in the Add-Ins

Using a spatula, fold in the white chocolate chunks and dried cranberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with your spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20–24 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges will be lightly golden, and the center should appear set but not overbaked.

Step 8: Cool and Frost

Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. While the bars cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Once the bars are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top.

Step 9: Final Touches

Sprinkle the remaining dried cranberries over the frosted bars for added texture and a pop of color. For the finishing touch, drizzle melted white chocolate on top, creating beautiful patterns for an eye-catching presentation.

Step 10: Chill and Cut

For cleaner cuts and to improve the flavor melding, chill the bars in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing them into triangles. This step ensures you have sharp edges and makes them easier to handle.

Variations

Protein: Add a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an added crunch and texture.
Vegetables: Incorporate freshly grated carrot for a unique twist.
Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic flavor.

Cooking Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for proper mixing.
Chilling the bars before slicing helps achieve cleaner edges.
Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins such as dried fruit or alternative chocolates.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack.

Tips

Use high-quality white chocolate for maximum flavor.
To ensure even baking, rotate the pan halfway through the baking time.
If you don’t have orange zest, lemon zest can be a great substitute.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 24 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including cooling)

Nutritional Information

Calories: 290
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 105mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the bars a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What can I replace cream cheese with for frosting?

For a lighter frosting, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of powdered sugar for sweetness.

How should I store the leftover bars?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Softest Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a perfect dessert choice for all occasions. With their easy-to-follow recipe and simple ingredients, you can create a sweet treat that will surely impress. Whether you share them with friends or savor them solo, their irresistible taste and festive appearance will leave everyone wanting more. Don’t hesitate to try different variations and make this recipe your own. We’d love to hear your thoughts, variations, and how your bars turned out in the comments below. Embrace the joy of baking and indulge in these delicious cranberry bliss bars!