Cranberry Bliss Bars are the delightful treat that dances on your taste buds, combining the tartness of cranberries with the rich creaminess of white chocolate. Picture a soft, chewy bar topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, each bite bursting with flavor and warmth, perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner ideas recipe.
Every time I whip up these Cranberry Bliss Bars, I’m transported back to festive gatherings filled with laughter and joy. The aroma of baking fills the air, mingling with memories of family and friends enjoying these treats together. Trust me; these bars will have everyone asking for seconds and thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry Bliss Bars are incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to shine
- The flavor profile balances sweetness and tartness beautifully
- Their vibrant colors make them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table
- Perfect for holiday gatherings yet versatile enough for any occasion!
I remember my friend’s eyes lighting up when she took her first bite of these bars at a holiday party. It was priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for easy mixing and a rich flavor in your base.
- Granulated Sugar: This sweetener adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
- Brown Sugar: The molasses in brown sugar brings depth and moisture to the bars.
- Large Eggs: Eggs provide structure; use fresh ones for best results.
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour works perfectly in this recipe; no special flour needed!
- Dried Cranberries: Opt for plump cranberries to enhance texture and flavor.
- White Chocolate Chips: Choose high-quality chips for that creamy, dreamy topping.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for making your frosting smooth and spreadable.
- Powdered Sugar: This sugar creates a sweet frosting that complements the tart cranberries beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates all the flavors in your bars.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper.
Create Your Batter Base: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. You want it to look like fluffy clouds!
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract until well combined—this adds flavor and keeps your bars moist.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in flour until just combined; don’t overmix! Gently fold in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
Spread Into Pan and Bake: Pour your batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
Prepare Your Frosting While it Cools : In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Spread generously over cooled bars once they’re completely set.
Now you’re ready to cut them into squares! The anticipation builds as you slice through that creamy frosting into those chewy bars underneath.
As you serve these Cranberry Bliss Bars at gatherings or cozy evenings at home, watch as smiles appear on everyone’s faces. They’re not just dessert; they’re memories waiting to happen! Enjoy every delicious bite! For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
You Must Know
- Cranberry Bliss Bars are not just tasty; they’re a holiday must-have
- Their blend of sweet and tart flavors makes them a delightful treat
- The festive colors will brighten any dessert table, making them the perfect gift or party snack
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your ingredients: chop cranberries and white chocolate first, then mix the batter to achieve a smooth texture. Bake until golden brown for the best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for dried cherries or add nuts for extra crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer shelf life, refrigerate them to maintain freshness and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Cranberry Bliss Bars, ensure your butter is softened properly, as it impacts texture
- Use fresh cranberries when possible; they offer better flavor
- Don’t skip chilling the bars before slicing to achieve clean cuts!
Sharing these delightful Cranberry Bliss Bars with friends brought back memories of cozy holiday gatherings filled with laughter and sweet treats.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries for Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Yes, but thaw and drain excess moisture to prevent sogginess.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular flour with almond or gluten-free flour blends.
What’s the best way to decorate Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with additional cranberries before serving.
Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Bliss Bars are a festive indulgence that perfectly marries tart cranberries with creamy white chocolate. These soft, chewy bars topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting are ideal for holiday celebrations or any time you crave a delightful treat. Each bite is a burst of flavor, evoking warm memories of gatherings filled with laughter. Easy to make, these bars will have everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time and mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually incorporate the flour until just combined; gently fold in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
- While cooling, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth; spread over cooled bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg