If you are looking to bring a burst of festive joy and irresistible flavors into your kitchen, this Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine soft, buttery blondies brimming with tart dried cranberries and melty white chocolate chips, all topped with a luxuriously creamy orange-vanilla frosting dotted with more cranberries. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spiced notes that come together in every heavenly bite. Whether for holiday celebrations or an everyday treat, these bars are a surefire way to brighten up any dessert table and make everyone ask for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe. Each element plays a vital role, from giving the bars their tender texture to layering on that warm, seasonal aroma.
- 1 ½ packed cups packed light brown sugar: Adds moistness and a deep, caramel-like sweetness that’s essential for blondies.
- 1 orange (zested): Brings in fresh, citrusy brightness that perfectly complements the cranberries.
- 2 sticks unsalted butter (melted): Provides rich, creamy fat that keeps the bars soft and tender.
- 2 eggs (at room temperature): Helps bind everything together and adds fluffiness to the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, fragrant warmth.
- 2 cups flour: Gives structure and that delightful crumb to the blondies.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a gentle spicy kick that elevates the seasonal feel.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise just enough without becoming cakey.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon: Introduces cozy warmth to complement the ginger and orange.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness for depth of flavor.
- 1 cup sweetened dried cranberries: Tart and chewy bursts that are a star ingredient in each bite.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Creamy, sweet pockets that melt delightfully throughout the blondies.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The base for the frosting, lending a silky, tangy richness.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds smoothness and body to the frosting.
- 2 cups confectioner’s sugar (sifted): Sweet and powdery, perfect for that classic, velvety frosting texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For a sweet, aromatic lift in the frosting that ties everything together.
- ½ cup sweetened dried cranberries (chopped): Used as a pretty, flavorful topping that adds chew and color.
- Orange zest (if desired): Optional but highly recommended for an extra pop of fresh citrus aroma on top.
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350ËšF. Then take a 9 by 13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on each side. This little trick is a game-changer because it makes it super easy to lift your bars out of the pan once they are baked, without any hassle or crumbling.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients with Love
In a large bowl, add the light brown sugar, then sprinkle over the freshly grated orange zest. Use your fingers to massage the zest right into the sugar until your kitchen smells amazing and the sugar is fragrant. Whisk in the melted butter until the mixture is smooth and glossy, then add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting aroma.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, sift together the flour, ground ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. These spices give a subtle yet irresistible complexity to the bars. Use a rubber spatula to fold this dry mixture gently into the wet ingredients, making sure there are no streaks of flour left. Then fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, which add those standout bursts of flavor and gooey delight.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour and scrape the luscious batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top gently. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. Let the bars cool for about 20 minutes in the pan before carefully lifting them out using the parchment paper sling.
Step 5: Whip Up the Dreamy Frosting
Once the bars have completely cooled on a wire rack, it’s frosting time! Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a stand mixer until fluffy and smooth. Gradually add the sifted confectioner’s sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is silky and spreadable. This frosting brings richness and tang that perfectly balances the sweetness of the bars.
Step 6: Frost and Decorate
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled blondies with a spatula. Generously sprinkle chopped dried cranberries over the top, and if you’re feeling fancy, add a little extra orange zest for that lovely pop of color and brightness. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for about an hour to set the frosting before slicing into 24 even triangles.
How to Serve Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra festive touch, adding a little sprinkle of crushed pistachios or a dusting of powdered sugar can complement the vibrant look and flavor of these bars beautifully. Fresh orange zest on top not only lifts the aroma but makes the presentation irresistible.
Side Dishes
These bars are versatile enough to pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee, bright herbal tea, or even a glass of chilled milk. During winter holidays, serving them alongside spiced mulled wine or hot cocoa adds to the cozy vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the bars on a festive platter layered with fresh cranberries and evergreen sprigs for a holiday party. Another idea is stacking them in cute boxes with tissue paper as charming homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe treats store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The frosting stays smooth and creamy, and the bars even taste better as the flavors meld over time.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to two months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight for a fresh-baked taste any day of the week.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer them slightly warm, pop a piece in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Be careful not to overheat so the frosting doesn’t lose its lovely texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried cranberries in this recipe?
Fresh cranberries are much more tart and contain extra moisture, which can alter the texture of the bars. It’s best to stick with sweetened dried cranberries to maintain the right chewiness and balance of flavors.
Is it necessary to use parchment paper in the pan?
Parchment paper is highly recommended because it makes removing the bars from the pan so much easier and prevents them from sticking or breaking apart.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, but results may vary slightly in texture. Just ensure your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free.
How long do the bars last without refrigeration?
Since these bars have cream cheese frosting, it’s best to keep them refrigerated. At room temperature, they can spoil quickly, especially in warm environments.
Can I add nuts to the batter?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would add a lovely crunch that pairs nicely with the cranberries and white chocolate. Just fold them in with the dried fruit and chips in step 3.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe that transforms a simple dessert into a celebration of flavors and textures. This recipe has become one of my all-time favorites for gifting, parties, or whenever I crave a bit of sunshine and holiday cheer in a bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover your own moments of bliss in every slice!
Print
Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Cranberry Bliss Bars featuring a moist, spiced blondie base loaded with white chocolate chips and dried cranberries, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting and a tangy cranberry garnish. Perfect for holiday treats or anytime you want a festive, flavorful dessert bar.
Ingredients
Blondie Base
- 1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
- 2 eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sweetened dried cranberries
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups confectioner’s sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sweetened dried cranberries, chopped
- Orange zest, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350ËšF (175ËšC). Line a 9 by 13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang on all sides to easily lift out the bars after baking.
- Make Blondie Batter: In a large bowl, add the brown sugar and orange zest. Massage the zest into the sugar with your fingers until fragrant. Whisk in melted butter until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture with a rubber spatula until combined and no flour streaks remain. Fold in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips evenly.
- Bake the Blondies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until edges are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Blondies: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. Using the parchment overhang, carefully lift the blondies out onto a wire rack and cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting: In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat softened cream cheese and butter together on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until fluffy. Gradually add confectioner’s sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and Garnish: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled blondies. Sprinkle the chopped cranberries on top and add orange zest if desired.
- Chill and Serve: Place the frosted blondies in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to set the frosting. Once chilled, cut into 24 even triangular bars and serve.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter and better texture.
- Massaging orange zest into brown sugar releases more flavor and aroma throughout the blondie base.
- Ensure blondies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- For sharper orange flavor, add extra zest to the frosting or sprinkle on top.
- These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, tightly covered.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
