Description
Enjoy the softest Starbucks-inspired Cranberry Bliss Bars, featuring a buttery, tender base studded with white chocolate chunks and dried cranberries. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, extra dried cranberries, and a delicate white chocolate drizzle, these bars blend tart and sweet perfectly for a festive treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Bar Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup white chocolate chunks
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Toppings
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Cream the Butters and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer at medium speed. This step incorporates air for a lighter texture.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest for a fragrant citrus note that elevates the flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing to prevent dense bars. Aim for a thick but smooth batter.
- Fold in the Add-Ins: Fold the white chocolate chunks and dried cranberries evenly into the batter with a spatula.
- Bake: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 20-24 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, edges turn light golden, and the center is set.
- Cool and Frost: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Meanwhile, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth to prepare the frosting, then spread generously over the cooled bars.
- Final Touches: Sprinkle the remaining dried cranberries over the frosting and drizzle melted white chocolate in decorative patterns for a beautiful presentation.
- Chill and Cut: Chill the bars in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up the frosting and improve flavor melding. Cut into triangles for serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Orange zest is essential for authentic flavor—do not omit.
- Be careful not to overbake to keep the bars soft and moist.
- Chilling before slicing ensures cleaner cuts and firmer bars.
- Store leftover bars in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
