Description
A delightful treat that combines the sweetness of white chocolate and the tartness of cranberries in a chewy bar.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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