Are you craving a sweet holiday treat with a bakery-style flair? Look no further than these delightful Cranberry Bliss Bars. Rich and chewy, these bars deliver a sweet-tart explosion thanks to the chopped dried cranberries and luscious white chocolate. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply want to indulge in a cozy coffee-shop experience at home, this easy recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a buttery blondie base topped with smooth cream cheese frosting and a festive drizzle of white chocolate, these bars will undoubtedly become a family favorite.
What makes these Cranberry Bliss Bars truly special is their versatility. They are not just a dessert; they can double as a delicious breakfast treat or an impressive addition to your holiday cookie tray. These bars are easy to make and will leave your kitchen smelling like a sweet wonderland, making them ideal for any occasion. As the scent of baking fills your home, you’ll be reminded of all the joyous moments spent with family and friends during the festive season.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Bliss Bars
These Cranberry Bliss Bars are irresistible and here’s why:
- Flavor Combination: The combination of sweet and tart from the cranberries and white chocolate creates a perfect balance that will please everyone.
- Simple Preparation: The straightforward steps make this recipe easy enough for any home cook to master.
- Versatile Serving Options: These bars can be served as a dessert, breakfast, or even a snack, making them a great addition to any meal.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors and elegant frosting make these bars an attractive choice for holiday gatherings.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen for success. First, gather all your ingredients to ensure everything is within reach. The tools you will need include a 9×13 inch baking pan, parchment paper for easy cleanup, mixing bowls, a hand mixer or stand mixer for frosting, and a spatula for spreading batter and frosting evenly. Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) will also save time during the baking process. This preparation not only sets the tone for a smooth baking experience but also helps keep you organized, preventing any last-minute scrambling.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Cranberry Bliss Bars:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup white chocolate, chopped
- 2/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (for topping)
- 1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang. This will make it easier to lift the bars out later.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Use a whisk to mix until the ingredients are well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the teaspoon of vanilla extract, ensuring that you mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Gently stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Be careful not to overmix; you want just enough blending to incorporate everything without compromising the texture.
Step 4: Add Cranberries and White Chocolate
Once your mixture is combined, fold in the chopped white chocolate and dried cranberries. This will add bursts of flavor to your bars. Ensure an even distribution so every bite boasts a mix of sweetness and tartness.
Step 5: Bake the Batter
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18–22 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars to ensure they cook through but do not overbake. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool and Frost
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. While they cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and the remaining half teaspoon of vanillaine extract, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 7: Decorate the Bars
Once the bars are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top. To finish, sprinkle additional dried cranberries and drizzle with melted white chocolate. This will create a festive finish that not only tastes great but also looks stunning!
Step 8: Chill and Slice
Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set and flavors to meld. After chilling, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares or triangles.
Variations
- Protein: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and flavor depth.
- Vegetables: Try adding shredded carrot or zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.
- Spices: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the cozy, festive flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your butter is truly melted before mixing; this helps in achieving the right texture.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for frosting to avoid lumps in your final product.
Serving Suggestions
- These bars pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea.
- Serve at holiday parties as part of a dessert platter alongside other treats.
Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week for maximum freshness.
- For a more intense cranberry flavor, consider soaking the dried cranberries in warm water before folding them into the batter.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 200 per bar
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes! Feel free to substitute milk chocolate or dark chocolate if you prefer a different flavor profile.
How can I store leftover bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them tightly before storing in the freezer, and they will last for up to three months.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative which works similarly in frosting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful treat that should be on everyone’s holiday baking list. With their incredible flavor and easy preparation, they’re perfect for sharing with family or friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to make them your own. We would love to hear how your batch turns out, so be sure to leave a comment below. Happy baking and enjoy your festive season with these mouthwatering bars!
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Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
A delightful treat that combines the sweetness of white chocolate and the tartness of cranberries in a chewy bar.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup white chocolate, chopped
- 2/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (for topping)
- 1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang. This will make it easier to lift the bars out later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Use a whisk to mix until the ingredients are well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the teaspoon of vanilla extract, ensuring that you mix thoroughly.
- Now, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Gently stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Be careful not to overmix; you want just enough blending to incorporate everything without compromising the texture.
- Once your mixture is combined, fold in the chopped white chocolate and dried cranberries. This will add bursts of flavor to your bars. Ensure an even distribution so every bite boasts a mix of sweetness and tartness.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18–22 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars to ensure they cook through but do not overbake. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. While they cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and the remaining half teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Once the bars are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top. To finish, sprinkle additional dried cranberries and drizzle with melted white chocolate.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set and flavors to meld. After chilling, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares or triangles.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week for maximum freshness. For a more intense cranberry flavor, consider soaking the dried cranberries in warm water before folding them into the batter.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approx. 200 per bar
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 2 g