Cranberry Bliss Bars recipe are a festive treat I have come to love over the years. With their blend of cream cheese frosting, dried cranberries, and white chocolate, these bars are the perfect sweet treat for any holiday gathering or cozy afternoon at home. As the cold weather rolls in, I find myself craving this delightful dessert more than ever.
Every bite of these scrumptious bars takes me back to warm memories spent in the kitchen with family. One year, I recall my aunt whipping up a batch while we hung out, sharing stories and laughter. Now, every time I make my Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe, I feel as if I am sharing a little piece of those happy moments.
Ingredients for Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe
Cranberry Bliss Bars Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, for garnish
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted for drizzling
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe
Making these bars is simpler than you might think. The steps below will guide you through the process from start to finish.
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some edges to hang over. This helps with easier removal later.
2. Mix the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s creamy and smooth. This usually takes around three minutes. After that, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bars tender.
4. Add Cranberries and White Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chopped dried cranberries and white chocolate chips. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly, then bake for 25-30 minutes. You know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper.
Frosting the Cranberry Bliss Bars
Now the fun part begins – the cream cheese frosting!
6. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until it reaches a fluffy consistency. Incorporate the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
7. Frost the Bars
Once your cranberry bliss bars are completely cooled, place them on a serving platter. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top. Don’t worry about making it perfect; a little rustic charm makes it feel more homey!
8. Garnish and Drizzle
Sprinkle some dried cranberries over the frosting for decoration. For an extra touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor.
Cutting and Serving Your Bars
After everything comes together, it’s time to cut those bars!
9. Cutting the Bars
Using a sharp knife, slice them into squares or rectangles. I like to go for one-inch pieces, but you can make them larger or smaller based on your preference. When serving, make sure to share them with family and friends.
10. Ideal Pairings
These Cranberry Bliss Bars are delightful on their own. However, they pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Sometimes, I enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a perfect dessert experience.
Storing Leftover Cranberry Bliss Bars
If you manage to have some bars leftover (which is unlikely), here’s how to keep them fresh.
11. Refrigerating the Bars
Place the bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 5 to 7 days. Just make sure to layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking.
12. Freezing for Later
If you want to enjoy these treats even later, freeze them! Simply slice them into squares and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Why You Will Love This Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe
Every holiday season, Cranberry Bliss Bars seem to make an appearance in many households. There’s so much to love about them.
Sweet and Tangy Flavor
The balance of sweetness from the white chocolate and the tartness from cranberries creates a delightful taste. Each bite is a burst of flavors that evokes the feeling of the holidays.
Texture Is Key
These bars are soft and chewy but still have a slight crunch from the white chocolate chips. This combination of textures keeps every bite interesting.
A Dessert for All Occasions
Made for special occasions or simple gatherings, these bars bring everyone together. They are comforting treats everyone looks forward to enjoying.
Perfect for Holiday Gift Giving
Pack them in a cute tin or box, and you’ve got a sweet gift for friends and neighbors. Everyone loves homemade treats, especially ones that taste this good!
After experiencing countless recipes over the years, my love for Cranberry Bliss Bars remains strong. They may be simple to make, but they’re full of flavor and history in every bite.