Ah, the beloved Cranberry Bliss Bars! I can’t help but smile thinking about them. Every time I walk into a Starbucks, the cozy aroma of coffee combined with that sweet cranberry scent just lures me in. Let me tell you, these bars are more than just a sweet treat – they’re a taste of nostalgia wrapped in a golden, creamy layer of bliss. It’s one of those recipes that takes me back to winter afternoons spent sipping on hot cocoa, surrounded by my loved ones.
These delightful bars are not just popular because they taste amazing, they also carry that warmth of the holidays and festive gatherings. Whether you’re planning a winter party, a cozy Saturday night in, or just satisfying that sweet tooth, this copycat recipe will help you recreate that Starbucks magic right in your own kitchen!
What’s in Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Let’s break down some of the star ingredients in these scrumptious bars:
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the bars. I typically go for unbleached all-purpose flour for a more natural flavor.
Baking Powder: A must-have for getting that perfect rise so your bars are fluffy and delicious.
Brown Sugar: This gives your bars a deeper, richer flavor and that lovely chewiness that just makes you want to go back for seconds.
Cream Cheese: The cream cheese frosting is what elevates these bars to another level. It adds that creamy tang that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Dried Cranberries: The stars of the show! They add a pop of tartness and color. I often use sweetened dried cranberries for extra chewiness.
White Chocolate Chips: Because what’s a dessert without a little chocolate love? These add sweetness and a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with cranberries.
Is Cranberry Bliss Bars Good for You?
Now, while these bars are blissful and delicious, they do come with some considerations. On the positive side, the dried cranberries provide antioxidants and can promote urinary tract health. Plus, just a little sweetness can make those cold, miserable winter days feel a lot warmer.
However, things get a bit tricky with the sugar and cream cheese. The brown sugar and white chocolate chips bring a significant amount of sugar to the table, so it’s best to enjoy these in moderation. For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese or incorporating some oats to the bars to give a bit more fiber!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
This recipe will serve about 12 bars, perfect for sharing (or not)!
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Time for the fun part! Here’s how to whip up these delightful bars:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, mix the flour and baking powder together. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the brown sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg to your butter mixture, mixing well.
5. Gradually add in the flour mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
7. Spread the mixture evenly in your baking pan and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
8. While the bars are baking, whip up the frosting by mixing the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
9. Once the bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
10. Cut the bars into squares, and enjoy!
Sweet Twists & Serving Suggestions
Feeling adventurous? You could sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking for added crunch or drizzle some white chocolate over the frosted bars for an elegant touch. These bars are perfect for serving at parties, gifting, or keeping all to yourself (no judgment here!). Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee and indulge!
I hope you get a chance to try this Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake recipe and enjoy every delightful bite as much as I do. Let me know how it turns out, and if you have any secret twists of your own, I’d love to hear about them. Happy baking!
