Deliciously Addictive Cranberry Bliss Bars for the Holidays

Last updated on December 10th, 2024

These irresistible bars feature a rich, buttery blondie base paired with the tangy zing of cranberries and the sweet, velvety taste of white chocolate. Topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting and a white chocolate drizzle, they’re sure to become your new dessert favorite.

About Cranberry Bliss Bars

Cranberry Bliss Bars are a popular treat that gained fame as a seasonal offering at a certain well-known coffee chain (the one with the mermaid logo).

While the exact origin of Cranberry Bliss Bars is tied to their commercial introduction, the combination of cranberries and white chocolate in baked goods has been a beloved pairing for much longer.

Why You Should Make These at Home

Why limit yourself to enjoying these bars only when they’re available in stores?

With this recipe, you can create your own version at home and enjoy it whenever you want. Plus, you get to customize it to your taste.

• By making these bars at home, you have complete control over the ingredients. You can adjust the sweetness, use your favorite brand of white chocolate, or even experiment with different types of dried fruit.
• Nothing beats the taste of freshly baked goods. Home-baked Cranberry Bliss Bars will have a superior texture and flavor compared to store-bought versions that may have been sitting on a shelf.
• Making a batch at home is often more economical than buying individual bars, especially if you’re planning to serve them at a gathering or give them as gifts.
• The process of baking these bars will fill your home with an irresistible aroma, instantly creating a festive atmosphere.

Recipe: Cranberry Bliss Bars

Ingredients

For the Blondie Base

• 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (85g) white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (60g) dried cranberries

For the Frosting and Topping

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (30g) dried cranberries, chopped
• 2 oz (55g) white chocolate, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing thoroughly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
4. Fold in white chocolate chips and dried cranberries.
5. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
6. For the frosting, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
7. Spread the frosting over the cooled blondie base. Sprinkle with chopped cranberries.
8. Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top.
9. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before cutting into your preferred shape.

Additional Tips for Perfect Cranberry Bliss Bars

• Important to a chewy blondie base is to avoid overbaking. Remove the bars from the oven when the edges are lightly browned and the center is set but still soft.
• Refrigerating the bars before cutting helps the frosting set and makes it easier to get clean, sharp cuts.
• Choose high-quality white chocolate for the best flavor. Look for chocolate that contains cocoa butter rather than vegetable oils.
• The classic recipe calls for dried cranberries and white chocolate, but really feel free to experiment. Orange zest, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt can add interesting flavor dimensions.
• These bars actually taste better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld. They’re perfect for make-ahead holiday treats!

A Celebration of Holiday Flavors

These bars are an absolute treat and delight to bring to any gathering. Sweet, tart, and creamy flavors really create a truly “blissful” experience.

Use this recipe and get ready to create some bliss in your kitchen!

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