Cranberry Bliss Bars are not just a dessert; they’re a delightful experience that combines sweet, tart cranberries with creamy frosting on a soft, chewy base. Imagine biting into a slice and feeling that burst of flavor dance on your taste buds, making you wish you had another piece at the ready. For more inspiration, check out this explore more recipes recipe.
These bars evoke memories of cozy gatherings during the holidays, where laughter fills the air and the aroma of baked goods wafts through the house. Whether you’re sharing them with family or indulging solo while binge-watching your favorite show, Cranberry Bliss Bars promise to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry Bliss Bars are easy to whip up in under an hour, making them perfect for any last-minute gathering
- The flavor is a beautiful balance of sweet and tart, sure to please everyone
- Visually, they’re stunning with their vibrant colors and creamy topping
- Enjoy them as a festive treat or a year-round indulgence!
I once brought these bars to a holiday potluck, and they disappeared faster than my cousin’s New Year’s resolutions! Everyone raved about them, which made me feel like a baking rock star for the evening. For more inspiration, check out this more delicious desserts recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Choose high-quality butter for rich flavor; it makes all the difference in baked goods.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that lovely chewy texture.
- Cranberries: Fresh or dried cranberries work beautifully; they add tartness and color.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift it for best results.
- Powdered Sugar: Perfect for making that dreamy frosting—trust me, you’ll want extra.
- Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for an aromatic boost that enhances all flavors.
- Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a velvety frosting that holds its shape.
- Eggs: They bind everything together; make sure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.
- Almond Extract (optional): A hint of almond adds depth; use sparingly to avoid overpowering flavors.
- Orange Zest (optional): A sprinkle of zest brightens up the bar’s taste profile beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Create The Batter: In a large bowl, beat unsalted butter with granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This aeration is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture.
Add The Eggs: Mix in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. You’ll notice the mixture becoming richer and creamier—yum!
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add all-purpose flour along with baking powder. Stir gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough bars!
Add Cranberries: Fold in cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Their vibrant color will make your bars pop!
Bake The Bars: Pour batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean from the center.
Create The Frosting: While cooling, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread this heavenly frosting over cooled bars.
Let’s not forget to top it off with some extra cranberries or even crushed nuts if you want that added flair! Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy every bite as you soak up compliments from family and friends!
You Must Know
- Cranberry Bliss Bars are not only a delightful treat but also incredibly easy to make
- They combine tangy cranberries, creamy frosting, and a hint of orange zest
- Perfect for the holidays or any gathering, these bars bring joy and flavor to any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your ingredients: mix dry and wet separately before combining them. Bake until golden brown to ensure a chewy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for dried cherries or add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. A dash of cinnamon can elevate the flavor!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, refrigerate them or freeze individually wrapped bars.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect Cranberry Bliss Bars, ensure your butter is softened for smooth mixing
- Don’t overbake; you want them chewy!
- Experiment with different frostings for added flair and flavor
It was during a family gathering that I first made these bars, and they disappeared faster than my cousin could say “seconds.” Everyone raved about them!
FAQ
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but fresh cranberries may alter the texture and sweetness of the bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown while the center remains slightly soft.
What type of frosting works best?
Cream cheese frosting complements the tanginess of the cranberries perfectly!
Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Bliss Bars are a festive delight that perfectly balance sweet and tart flavors. With a soft, chewy base topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, these bars are ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Whip them up in under an hour and enjoy the vibrant colors and rich tastes that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of one orange (optional)
- Splash of almond extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time until mixed.
- Gradually stir in flour and baking powder until just combined. Fold in cranberries.
- Spread batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over cooled bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg