Cranberry Bliss Bars are the holiday treat that makes you feel like you just stepped into a cozy café, wrapped in a warm sweater. With their soft, chewy base and creamy frosting topped with tangy cranberries, these bars are basically dessert magic. Imagine biting into one and experiencing that delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors dancing on your palate while aromas of vanilla waft through the air. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
Growing up, my family would make these delectable bars every year for our holiday gatherings. They quickly became a staple, bringing smiles and satisfied sighs from everyone around the table. There’s something about sharing food that connects us, right? Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or just trying to survive another Monday, these Cranberry Bliss Bars add a sprinkle of joy to any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry Bliss Bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels
- The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of sweetness and tartness that pleases every palate
- Their festive appearance makes them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, they are perfect for potlucks or as a sweet pick-me-up at home
One holiday gathering, I remember my cousin devouring half the pan before we even served dinner—definitely a compliment to the recipe if I ever heard one!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use standard all-purpose flour for the best texture; it keeps the bars light yet chewy.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.
- Cranberries: Dried cranberries work best here; they offer bursts of tartness that balance the sweet frosting.
- White Chocolate Chips: These add creaminess; opt for good-quality chips for better melting and flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness; it creates a rich base for your bars.
- Eggs: Large eggs ensure proper binding and moisture in your bars.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor; it’s worth splurging on!
- Cream Cheese: For frosting, use softened cream cheese—it gives that luscious texture we crave in dessert.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Create the Batter Base: In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition.
Add Flour and Mix-ins: Gradually stir in flour until just combined. Fold in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips gently to keep some texture.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pour the batter into your prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden on top and a toothpick comes out clean.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: While cooling, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract for flavor.
Frost and Chill Out!: Once cooled completely, spread frosting over the top of your baked bars evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares.
Now you’ve got yourself some scrumptious Cranberry Bliss Bars! Perfectly chewy with creamy frosting—what more could you ask for? Enjoy them fresh out of the fridge or let them sit at room temperature to soften slightly before serving.
These little bites of joy will bring warmth and happiness whether you’re sharing them with family during festivities or sneaking one as an afternoon snack (we won’t tell). Let those good vibes roll!
You Must Know
- Making cranberry bliss bars is not just about the taste; it’s also about that beautiful balance of sweet and tart
- The aroma of baking cranberries fills your kitchen, and the texture is divine—soft with a slight crunch on top
- Don’t forget to share; they’ll disappear faster than you can say “cranberry bliss!”
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the batter. Mix the wet ingredients first, then fold in the dry ones to avoid overmixing. Finally, bake until golden brown for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular flour for almond flour for a gluten-free version. You can also add white chocolate chunks or nuts for an extra crunch. Personalizing these bars can make them uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store cranberry bliss bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped individually and reheat in the microwave when you’re craving a sweet treat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To truly elevate your cranberry bliss bars, consider using fresh cranberries instead of dried
- They add vibrant flavor and color
- Also, let them cool completely before slicing; this prevents crumbling
- Lastly, drizzle melted white chocolate on top for that Instagram-worthy finish!
Baking these cranberry bliss bars always brings back memories of holiday gatherings where everyone fights over the last piece—trust me, it’s a real thing!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well but may alter texture slightly after baking.
How do I know when they are done baking?
They should be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well and taste just as delicious after a day or two.
Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Bliss Bars are the ultimate holiday treat, blending sweet and tart flavors in a chewy, creamy delight. With a soft base topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and tangy cranberries, these bars are perfect for festive gatherings or as a cozy snack anytime. Easy to prepare, they are sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Gradually stir in flour until just combined. Fold in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown; use a toothpick to check for doneness.
- While cooling, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth; stir in vanilla extract.
- Once cooled completely, frost the bars evenly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg