Cranberry Bliss Bars

The holiday season is upon us and these Cranberry Bliss Bars are a popular seasonal treat at Starbucks. They have a quite a devoted fan following and now you can make them at home!

You will love the soft blondie cake base with chunks of white chocolate and dried cranberries and how easy they are to make, too!

Some other delicious dessert bar recipes you can add to your holiday table are my Pumpkin Pie Bars and these Apple Pie Bars.

What are cranberry bliss bars?

• These cranberry bliss bars combine the tartness of cranberries with the creaminess of white chocolate and a hint of orange zest in a moist, chewy blondie base.
• They are topped with a drool-worthy cream cheese frosting infused with orange zest, more cranberries, and a drizzle of white chocolate. They’re truly a holiday delight!

Why this recipe works

Many people adore these bars because of the combination of taste, texture and nostalgia. Here is why this recipe works and what makes them totally irresistible:

1. Sweet and Tart Balance: The sweetness of the white chocolate and the blondie base is beautifully contrasted by the tartness of the cranberries. This balance of flavors keeps the treat from becoming overly sweet and adds depth to each bite.
2. Creamy and Chewy Texture: The bars themselves have a moist, chewy texture typical of blondies, while the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy element. The contrast in textures is incredibly delicious!
3. Complex Flavor Profile: I love rubbing the orange zest into the sugar to enhance the orange flavors. The orange adds another dimension to the flavor, giving it a citrusy note that complements both the cranberries and the white chocolate.
4. Festive Appeal: Cranberries are often associated with the holiday season, making these bars a special treat that people look forward to every year. This anticipation and the limited availability at places like Starbucks add to their allure.
5. Visual Appeal: The bright red cranberries against the creamy frosting and blondie base make the bars visually enticing. The white chocolate drizzle adds an artistic touch.

Enjoy this homemade Cranberry Bliss Bar recipe with a cup of coffee, pumpkin spice latte, or tea for a delightful, standout holiday treat!

Ingredient Notes

For the ingredient measurements and entire recipe, be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the blog post where the recipe card is located.

• Butter: you’ll need unsalted butter for this recipe, and it gets melted so there is no need to remember to soften it! The butter provides moisture, flavor, and richness. It also contributes to the yummy chewy texture of the blondie base.
• Brown sugar: I tested this recipe with dark brown sugar, but you can use light brown sugar, too. The brown sugar S\sweetens the bars and adds moisture due to its molasses content. It adds a caramel-like depth and a moist, chewy texture to the blondie base.
• Eggs: Acts as a binding agent, provides structure, and contributes to the moistness of the bars.
• Flour: I’m using all purpose flour for these bars. Flour is the main structure of the bars and provides the framework and bulk. I have not tested this recipe with a gluten free flour.
• Baking Powder: leavening agent that helps the bars rise.
• Dried cranberries: provides a tart and chewy contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
• White chocolate: adds sweet, creamy, and slightly cocoa-buttery notes. Be sure to use quality white chocolate chips for best results and flavor.
• Orange zest: the orange zest really elevates this recipe. It imparts a citrusy flavor that complements the tartness of the cranberries and the sweetness of the white chocolate.
• Cream cheese: you’ll love the tangy and creamy frosting! Be sure your cream cheese is softened so it creates a nice and smooth frosting.

Step by Step Directions

For the full recipe instructions, scroll down to the bottom of the blog post to the recipe card.

1. Bar base: whisk the butter into the orange zest infused sugars, then add the eggs and vanilla. Fold in the dry ingredients, followed by the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
2. Bake: Spread into prepared 9×13 pan and bake.
3. Frosting: Once bars have cooled, spread cream cheese frosting on top and drizzle with white chocolate. Finish and garnish with chopped dried cranberries and additional orange zest.
4. Cut into triangles or bar shape of choice and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality ingredients. Use a good brand of white chocolate and fresh dried cranberries. Real butter (unsalted) will provide the best flavor for the blondie base.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher bars, while a gentle mix will ensure they stay soft and tender.
• Even Baking: Make sure to spread the batter evenly in your baking dish so it bakes uniformly.
• Monitor Baking Time: The key to the perfect texture is not overbaking. Look for a golden top and a toothpick that comes out with just a few crumbs (not wet batter). The bars will continue to set as they cool.
• Fresh Zest: If you’re using orange zest, ensure it’s freshly grated for the most vibrant flavor.
• Softened Cream Cheese: For the frosting, make sure the cream cheese is properly softened to room temperature. This ensures a smooth and lump-free consistency when mixed.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting. This will prevent the frosting from melting into the bars.

• Parchment Paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper allows for easier removal and slicing of the bars.
• Chill Before Cutting: If you’re aiming for clean-cut edges, refrigerate the frosted and drizzled bars for about 30 minutes before cutting them. Use a sharp knife, and you’ll get beautifully cut bars.
• Garnish: After frosting, but before the white chocolate drizzle sets, sprinkle the additional chopped cranberries on top. This ensures they stick to the bars.
• Storage: Remember that the cream cheese frosting means these bars should be stored in the refrigerator if not consumed within a few hours. However, they taste best at room temperature, so consider taking them out about 30 minutes before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

• Different berries: Swap out the dried cranberries for dried blueberries, cherries, or even golden raisins for a different fruity touch!
• Dark chocolate: Instead of white chocolate, use dark or milk chocolate chips for a richer, deeper flavor.
• Nuts: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the batter for an added crunch.
• Citrus: In addition to orange, try adding lemon or lime zest for a refreshing citrusy note.
• Spices: Incorporate more spices like cardamom, nutmeg, or ginger for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Coffee drizzle: Mix a little bit of brewed espresso or strong coffee with melted chocolate for a coffee-infused drizzle on top.
• Vegan version: while I have not personally tested this, you could try a vegan version: Use vegan butter, a flaxseed or chia seed egg replacement, vegan white chocolate, and vegan cream cheese to create a dairy-free and egg-free bar.

Storage and Freezing

When storing any baked goods made with a cream cheese frosting, it’s generally best and safer to store in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness. These bars do taste best at room temperature, so if you do freeze or chill, let them sit out for a little before enjoying.

• Short term: if you plan to enjoy these bars within a couple hours of making them, they can be left out at room temperature.
• Long term: Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week in the fridge.
• Freezing: these bars freeze well! Place the individual bars on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once solid, transfer them to an airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours when you’re ready to enjoy.