Cranberry Bliss Bars

What Makes This recipe So Special

There’s something truly magical about cranberry bliss bars. These delightful treats are the perfect blend of tart cranberries, creamy white chocolate, and a hint of citrus zest. They’re a festive favorite that brings joy to every bite, especially during the holiday season.

I remember the first time I made these bars for my family. The aroma of fresh cranberries and orange zest filled the kitchen, and the smiles on their faces when they took their first bite were priceless. It’s a memory I cherish every time I bake these bars. If you’re wondering, “Can I make cranberry bliss bars at home?” the answer is a resounding yes! And trust me, they’re just as delicious as the ones you’d find at your favorite café.

For more festive recipes, check out my cranberry relish recipe.

Table of Contents

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup white chocolate chips
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1/2 teaspoon orange zest

Estimated Prep & Cook Time for cranberry bliss bars

Task	Time
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

For more quick and easy recipes, try my turkey cranberry sliders.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing until combined.
Fold in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips. Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and orange zest until smooth. Spread over cooled bars.
Cut into squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

Here are a few tips to make your cranberry bliss bars even more delightful:

Swap dried cranberries for fresh ones for a tangier twist.
Use almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for later. Check out my caramel apple cheesecake bars for another delicious treat.

Healthier Alternatives for cranberry bliss bars

If you’re looking to make a lighter version of cranberry bliss bars, here are some swaps to try:

Replace butter with unsweetened applesauce.
Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
Opt for dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate.

For more on the benefits of cranberries, visit this link.

How to Serve this bliss bars

These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat with your morning coffee. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or a glass of sparkling cider for a festive touch.

For more holiday ideas, check out my Christmas cranberry meatballs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are cranberry bliss bars made of?

They’re made with a blend of cranberries, white chocolate, and a cream cheese frosting. See the full list of ingredients above.

Can I freeze cranberry bliss bars for later?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Are cranberry bliss bars similar to Starbucks’ version?

Yes, this recipe is inspired by the Starbucks classic. Try my Christmas sugar cookie recipe for another café-style treat.

What can I substitute for white chocolate in cranberry bliss bars?

You can use dark chocolate or even omit it entirely.

How long do cranberry bliss bars stay fresh?

They stay fresh for up to a week when stored in an airtight container.

Are cranberry bliss bars gluten-free or dairy-free?

This recipe isn’t gluten-free or dairy-free, but you can make swaps to accommodate dietary needs.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh in cranberry bliss bars?

Yes, dried cranberries work perfectly in this recipe.

Conclusion

Cranberry bliss bars are truly a holiday treasure. With their perfect balance of tart and sweet, they’re sure to become a family favorite. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine.

Don’t forget to share your creations with me! Try my green bean casserole for another crowd-pleaser.