The holidays are just around the corner, and there’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked treats wafting through the kitchen to lift the spirit. When I whipped up these Cranberry Bliss Bars, I never anticipated how quickly they’d vanish from the counter. The blend of sweet white chocolate and tart cranberries creates a delightful balance that keeps you coming back for more.
I stumbled upon the idea during one of those crisp autumn afternoons when the first leaves began to fall. With the festive season in mind, these blondies transformed into a festive favorite—perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the creamy frosting adds an elegant touch that makes them feel indulgent yet comforting.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone who enjoys the art of homemade delights, these bars are not just a treat; they’re an experience. Ready to make something extraordinary? Let’s dive into this recipe together!
Why are Cranberry Bliss Bars a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet white chocolate combined with tart cranberries creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Festive Delight: Perfectly suited for holiday gatherings, they add a cheerful touch to any dessert table.
Creamy Frosting: Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, every bite feels indulgent and special.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll be whipping these up in no time!
Crowd Pleaser: These bars are sure to impress friends and family, making them a hit at any occasion.
Satisfy your sweet tooth and bring joy to your loved ones with these delectable treats!
Cranberry Bliss Bars Ingredients
For the Blondies
• Unbleached all-purpose flour – essential for the structure of your blondies, giving them the perfect texture.
• Baking powder – helps the bars rise, making them delightfully fluffy.
• Table salt – enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter – adds richness and moisture; be sure to brown it for a nutty flavor.
• Light brown sugar – provides caramel notes, making the bars beautifully sweet and chewy.
• Large eggs – bind the ingredients together while adding moisture.
• Vanilla – for a warm, aromatic essence that elevates the flavor.
• Finely grated orange zest – brightens the mix and adds a citrusy note that pairs well with cranberries.
• Dried cranberries – give a burst of tartness; loosely pack them for the best results.
• White chocolate, chopped or chips – adds creamy sweetness, contributing to the decadent nature of these bars.
For the Frosting
• White chocolate, melted – provides a glossy finish and rich flavor to the frosting.
• Cream cheese – creates that creamy, indulgent texture that you’ll love spreading on top.
• Confectioners’ sugar – sweetens the frosting, giving it the right consistency for spreading.
• Vanilla (for frosting) – enhances the sweetness and complements the white chocolate beautifully.
• Orange juice – adds moisture and boosts the orange zest flavor in the frosting.
• Finely grated orange zest (for frosting) – ties together the flavor of the frosting with a fresh note.
For the Topping
• Dried cranberries, roughly chopped – sprinkle these for added texture and a pop of color.
• White chocolate, melted (for topping) – drizzled over the frosting, it brings everything together with a touch of elegance.
These Cranberry Bliss Bars are not just a treat; they’re a sweet holiday indulgence that brings smiles all around!
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars
-
Preheat and Prepare: Adjust your oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9 by 13-inch baking pan with nonstick baking spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Spray once more for good measure.
-
Brown the Butter: In a light-colored saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Transfer it to a bowl to cool and stop the cooking process.
-
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This will help incorporate air for a lighter texture.
-
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the cooled melted butter with brown sugar until smooth. Add the beaten eggs, vanilla, and orange zest, stirring until fully combined.
-
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined, taking care not to overmix. The batter should be thick. Fold in the white chocolate and dried cranberries, then transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a rubber spatula.
-
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Look for golden brown edges and a set top. Allow it to cool on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature.
-
Make the Frosting: While the blondies cool, prepare the frosting by combining all frosting ingredients in a medium bowl. Mix until everything is well combined and fluffy—a couple of minutes should do.
-
Frost the Blondies: Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled blondies, ensuring every corner is covered.
-
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped dried cranberries over the frosted blondies. Drizzle the melted white chocolate elegantly on top for that decorative touch.
-
Chill and Slice: Refrigerate the bars until the frosting firms up, making slicing easier. Once set, lift the blondies using the parchment paper and cut them into triangles.
Optional: Serve with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea for the perfect pairing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Bliss Bars
Brown the Butter Right: Make sure the butter is browned properly for nutty flavor; watch closely to avoid burning.
Don’t Overmix: Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies rather than light and fluffy ones.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time; removing the bars when the edges look golden brown will prevent overbaking.
Chill Before Cutting: Refrigerate the frosted bars until firm; this will help achieve clean slices and avoid messy servings.
Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or leaving out the orange zest if you’re looking for a different flavor twist!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Bliss Bars
Room Temperature: Keep these delicious bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Enjoy their fresh flavor during this time!
Fridge: Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps the creamy frosting maintain its texture and freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncut bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, simply microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds. The white chocolate will melt slightly, making them even more indulgent!
Cranberry Bliss Bars Variations
Feel free to add your own personal touch to these delightful bars with these fun twists!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious version that everyone can enjoy.
-
Coconut Lovers: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the batter for an added tropical flair that complements the cranberries.
-
Nutty Crunch: Mix in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that adds texture to each bite.
-
Spice it Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that fits the season.
-
Berry Blast: Substitute dried cranberries with dried cherries or blueberries for a fruity variation that’ll surprise your taste buds.
-
Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based delight that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
-
Extra Zing: Add an extra tablespoon of orange juice in the frosting for a delightful citrus kick that brightens the entire dessert.
-
Chocolate Infusion: Mix in semisweet or dark chocolate chips along with the white chocolate for a rich and decadent flavor upgrade.
What to Serve with Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Create an enchanting dessert experience that delights the senses and warms the heart.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich, cold contrast to the warm, chewy blondies.
- Hot Cocoa: This comforting drink enhances the cozy vibes, perfect for enjoying alongside your sweet treats on chilly evenings.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai complement the fruity notes of cranberries and adds a comforting warmth.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits brings a bright, tart balance to the sweetness of the blondies, elevating your dessert table.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel over each bar adds a decadent touch that enhances the flavors of white chocolate and cranberries.
- Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy, nutty biscotti provides an engaging texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft blondies.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses can create a deliciously unexpected pairing that surprisingly highlights the sweetness.
- Sparkling Water or Lemonade: Light and refreshing, these drinks cleanse the palate between bites, making them perfect companions for dessert indulgence.
- Cranberry Sauce: For a festive touch, serve a spoonful of cranberry sauce on the side, enhancing the tartness and connecting flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Bliss Bars are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the blondie base up to 3 days in advance. Simply mix the ingredients as directed, spread the batter in the pan, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil before refrigerating. For optimal quality, wait to frost them until you’re ready to serve. The cream cheese frosting can also be made ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, frost the cooled blondies, add the toppings, and slice them for a delightful dessert that’s just as delicious as if you had made it fresh!
Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using dried cranberries for their sweet and tart flavor. Look for ones without added sugar if you prefer a less sweet bar.
How can I store leftover Cranberry Bliss Bars?
You can store these delicious bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re keeping them longer, pop them in the fridge where they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Yes, you can! If you wish to freeze them, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the bars overnight in the fridge.
What should I do if my blondies turn out too dry?
If you find your blondies are a bit dry, consider reducing the baking time slightly next time. Remember to pull them out of the oven as soon as you see the golden edges. Also, adding a bit more melted butter into the batter can help keep them moist.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! Since these bars are made with ingredients like butter and cream cheese, they might not be suitable for those who follow a dairy-free or vegan diet. To make them friendlier for such diets, you can substitute coconut cream for cream cheese and a dairy-free butter alternative.
What can I do if the frosting is too thick?
If you find the cream cheese frosting too thick, simply add a tablespoon of milk or orange juice to the mixture. Mix until you reach the desired consistency; sometimes a little extra moisture makes all the difference!
Cranberry Bliss Bars: A Sweet Holiday Treat You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9 by 13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and nutty. Transfer to a bowl to cool.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Combine the cooled butter with brown sugar. Stir in beaten eggs, vanilla, and orange zest until smooth.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet until just combined. Add white chocolate and cranberries, then spread into the baking pan.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until golden brown edges appear. Cool on a wire rack.
- For frosting, mix all frosting ingredients until fluffy. Spread over cooled blondies.
- Sprinkle chopped cranberries over the frosting. Drizzle melted white chocolate on top.
- Refrigerate until frosting firms up, then lift out and cut into triangles.