There’s something truly special about baking that brings the whole family together, and these Cranberry Bliss Bars are the perfect example. Imagine the inviting aroma of warm butter mingling with the sweetness of cranberries and a hint of orange zest wafting through your kitchen. One bite of these soft, chewy bars draped in creamy frosting and adorned with a drizzle of white chocolate, and you’ll instantly forget about grabbing takeout for dessert.
I came across this delightful recipe while looking for a way to elevate my holiday baking. As the leaves turned golden and Christmas lights began to twinkle, these bars felt like a cozy embrace in dessert form. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or simply indulging in some self-care with a homemade treat, these Cranberry Bliss Bars are sure to impress and satisfy. So, let’s turn our kitchens into a place of warmth and joy as we whip up this crowd-pleasing delight that’s as easy to make as it is tasty!
Why Cranberry Bliss Bars Are So Irresistible?
Sweet, tangy flavor: The blend of tart cranberries and creamy frosting creates a delightful contrast that will make your taste buds dance.
Quick to make: With a simple baking process, you can whip these bars up in no time, free from the hassle of complicated recipes.
Perfect for sharing: Cut into delightful triangles, these bars are ideal for potlucks, parties, or just sharing with loved ones.
Festive touch: The addition of orange zest and white chocolate makes these bars a beautiful seasonal treat that everyone will adore.
Versatile treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or even as a sweet snack with your morning coffee. If you’re interested in more delightful desserts, check out my top dessert recipes.
Cranberry Bliss Bars Ingredients
For the Blondie Batter
• Melted unsalted butter – provides richness and moisture to the bars.
• Packed brown sugar – adds deep caramel flavor and helps create a chewy texture.
• Granulated sugar – balances the sweetness and ensures a tender crumb.
• Large eggs – bind the ingredients together and contribute to the structure.
• Large egg yolk – enriches the bars for a more decadent taste.
• Pure vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
• All-purpose flour – the main structure, creating a soft and chewy base.
• Cornstarch – helps to keep the bars tender, preventing them from becoming too dense.
• Baking powder – gives lift for that perfect blondie texture.
• Kosher salt – elevates the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Dried cranberries – bring bursts of tartness, making each bite refreshing.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Unsalted butter – contributes to a creamy, smooth frosting.
• Full-fat cream cheese – gives the frosting its rich, tangy flavor.
• Pure vanilla extract – ties the frosting flavors together.
• Fresh orange zest – infuses a vibrant citrus note that brightens up the frosting.
• Powdered sugar – sweetens and thickens the frosting for perfect spreadability.
For the Topping
• Dried cranberries – sprinkle them on top for added texture and a pop of color.
• White chocolate chips – melt and drizzle to add a luxurious touch and sweetness to the bars.
Dive into creating these Cranberry Bliss Bars and let the wonderful aromas fill your home!
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars
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Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, allowing some excess to hang over the sides for easy lifting later.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 ¼ cups packed brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer to blend until creamy and well combined.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack in 2 large eggs and 1 large egg yolk, along with 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smoothly combined and set this mixture aside.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In another medium bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. This will ensure an even distribution of leavening and flavor.
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Blend Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on medium speed until just incorporated—be careful not to overmix!
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Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in ½ cup roughly chopped dried cranberries with a silicone spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without deflating your batter.
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Transfer and Bake: Pour the blondie batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Cool the Bars: Remove the pan from the oven and set it aside to cool completely. This is an essential step for maintaining the bar’s structure when frosting.
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Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup unsalted butter and 1 (8-ounce) block full-fat cream cheese. Beat with a hand mixer until light and fluffy for about 2 minutes.
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Flavor it Up: Add 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest, mixing until fully incorporated and aromatic.
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Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add in 3 cups powdered sugar, mixing in ¼-cup increments until your frosting reaches the desired consistency—smooth and spreadable!
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Frost the Bars: Carefully lift the cooled blondie layer from the pan using the parchment. Dollop the creamy frosting on top and spread it evenly across the surface.
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Add Extra Cranberries: Scatter ½ cup roughly chopped dried cranberries over the top of the frosting, gently pressing them in if needed for added texture.
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Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, place ½ cup white chocolate chips. Microwave at 50% power in 30-second bursts, stirring until melted and smooth.
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Drizzle Chocolate: Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the frosting and cranberries for a delightful finishing touch. Allow it to set for about 5 minutes.
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Slice and Serve: Once the chocolate has hardened, slice the bars into 4 rows of 3, then cut each square diagonally to create beautiful triangular bars.
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Enjoy Your Treats: Serve these delectable Cranberry Bliss Bars and watch your loved ones delight at each bite!
Optional: Garnish with extra orange zest for a bright finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Bliss Bars
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor. Avoid using old or expired ingredients to ensure a delicious outcome.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of the desired soft, chewy texture.
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Uniform Baking: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the bars inside. Uneven baking can create undercooked centers or overly browned edges.
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Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool thoroughly before frosting. This helps the frosting adhere better and prevents it from melting into the bars.
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Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also freeze them for a longer shelf life—just be sure to wrap them tightly.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Bliss Bars
Room Temperature: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and freshness.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Wrap them tightly to prevent drying out, which preserves their delicious flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for best results.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through. Enjoy the Cranberry Bliss Bars in all their delightful glory!
Cranberry Bliss Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful bars and make them your own!
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Nut-Free: Swap out the chopped cranberries for ½ cup of chopped dried apricots to keep the sweetness with a different twist.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer flavor. The contrast with cranberries is heavenly!
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Citrus Burst: Substitute the orange zest with lemon zest for a tangy twist, making it a bright and refreshing alternative.
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Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based butter and cream cheese, along with flax eggs as a substitution for the large eggs in the recipe. It will still taste amazing!
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend for those with dietary restrictions, allowing everyone to enjoy this treat.
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Spice It Up: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor that perfectly complements the cranberries.
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Fruity Fusion: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts along with cranberries for an added crunch and another layer of flavor.
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Heat It Up: Sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili flakes on top of the frosting before drizzling with white chocolate for a surprising spicy kick.
Whichever variation you choose, your homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars will shine with personality and flair!
What to Serve with Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Creating a memorable spread around your delicious bars invites smiles and warmth to your gathering.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy chocolate and festive spices elevate the flavors of the bars, making for a delightful pairing.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside will contrast beautifully with the soft texture of the cranberry bliss bars, enhancing their sweetness.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the orange zest in the bars, creating a warm, comforting experience with every bite.
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Lemonade Spritzer: A bubbly lemonade spritzer adds a refreshing zest, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the bars, making them feel even more indulgent.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling warm, buttery caramel over the bars adds a luxurious touch, enhancing their sweetness while adding a hint of nuttiness to each bite.
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Candied Nuts: The crunch of sweet and salty candied nuts acts as a great texture contrast to the soft, chewy bars, adding dimensions to your dessert plate.
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Fruity Sorbet: A scoop of raspberry or lemon sorbet brings a burst of freshness, cutting through the richness of the bars and providing a delightful finish.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy brie or sharp cheddar on a cheese platter offers a savory balance, perfect for contrasting those sweet cravings.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enhance your dessert experience with a cozy pumpkin spice latte, creating a delightful flavor harmony that echoes the fall season.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy little treats resonate beautifully with the bars, creating an alluring interplay of textures and flavors on your dessert table.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Bliss Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the blondie base up to 24 hours in advance by baking, cooling, and storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. The cream cheese frosting can also be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before spreading. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cooled blondies and top them with cranberries and white chocolate drizzle. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade treats ready to impress at a moment’s notice, just as delightful as if they were freshly made!
Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
For the best flavor and texture in your Cranberry Bliss Bars, I recommend using dried cranberries that are plump and chewy. Look for cranberries that are not overly hard or shriveled, as those can affect the overall enjoyment of your bars. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even try using a mix of dried cranberries and cherries for a twist!
How should I store leftover Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Keep your delicious Cranberry Bliss Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their wonderfully chewy texture. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid drying out. They taste just as heavenly chilled!
Can I freeze Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze these bars for up to 3 months. Here’s how: First, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, ensuring they are well-covered. Next, place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warmed through. Perfect for a future sweet craving!
What if my batter is too thick or too thin?
If your batter seems too thick, it might be due to over-measuring the flour. Always spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife—never scoop directly from the bag. If the batter appears too thin, ensure that you’ve added the right amount of dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. You want a consistency that’s thick enough to hold its shape but smooth enough to spread evenly in the pan.
Are Cranberry Bliss Bars suitable for those with allergies?
These scrumptious bars contain gluten and dairy, so they may not be suitable for individuals with gluten or dairy allergies. If needed, you can substitute gluten-free flour to try to make them gluten-free, and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives to adjust for dairy allergies. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture might vary slightly. Always read ingredient labels to ensure safety!
How do I know when my bars are done baking?
Keep an eye on your Cranberry Bliss Bars as they bake! They typically take about 20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready! If it’s wet with batter, bake for an additional couple of minutes and check again. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly while cooling, so don’t overbake!
Irresistible Cranberry Bliss Bars for Your Sweet Tooth Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 ¼ cups packed brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar. Blend until creamy.
- Crack in 2 large eggs and 1 large egg yolk, along with 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
- Fold in ½ cup chopped dried cranberries gently with a spatula.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup unsalted butter and 8 ounces of cream cheese until light and fluffy.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon orange zest, mixing until fully combined.
- Gradually add 3 cups powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and spreadable.
- Lift the cooled blondie layer from the pan using parchment and spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Scatter ½ cup dried cranberries over the frosting, pressing them gently in.
- Melt ½ cup white chocolate chips in the microwave and drizzle it over the frosting and cranberries.
- Allow it to set for about 5 minutes before slicing into triangular bars.
- Serve the Cranberry Bliss Bars to delight your loved ones.