Save Experience the ultimate holiday treat with these Cranberry Bliss Bars. Each bite features a buttery, chewy base studded with tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate chips, all topped with a vibrant orange-infused cream cheese frosting and a signature white chocolate drizzle.
Save These bars are not just a dessert; they are a festive centerpiece. The bright red cranberries and elegant drizzle create a professional look that belies how easy they are to assemble in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- Bar Base: 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200 g) packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (120 g) dried cranberries, chopped; 1/2 cup (90 g) white chocolate chips.
- Orange Cream Cheese Frosting: 1/2 cup (113 g) cream cheese, softened; 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 orange); 2 tablespoons orange juice.
- Topping: 1/4 cup (45 g) dried cranberries, chopped (optional garnish); 1/3 cup (60 g) white chocolate, melted (optional drizzle).
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.
- Step 3
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Step 4
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 5
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined (do not overmix).
- Step 6
- Fold in chopped dried cranberries and white chocolate chips with a spatula.
- Step 7
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
- Step 8
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.
- Step 9
- Allow bars to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then lift out using the parchment and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 10
- While the bars cool, prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Mix in orange zest and orange juice until creamy and spreadable.
- Step 11
- Once completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the bars.
- Step 12
- If desired, sprinkle with additional chopped dried cranberries. Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top using a spoon or piping bag.
- Step 13
- Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, make sure your butter and cream cheese are fully softened at room temperature before you begin. When creaming the butter and sugars, don't rush—incorporating enough air at this stage helps the bars stay soft and light. Also, ensure the bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a deeper flavor profile, try adding 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger to the dry ingredients. If you want to experiment with different fruits, you can easily substitute the dried cranberries with dried cherries or chopped dried apricots. For a nuttier version, fold in some chopped macadamia nuts with the white chocolate chips.
Serviervorschläge
Cut these bars into traditional squares or sharp triangles for a professional bakery look. They are best served chilled or at room temperature alongside a cup of hot coffee or festive tea. They also make a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie exchange platter.
Save With their vibrant colors and refreshing citrus notes, these Cranberry Bliss Bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process of decorating them and share the sweetness with friends and family.
Recipe FAQ
- → How should I store Cranberry Bliss Bars?
To maintain freshness, store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to one week, and often, their flavors deepen and meld beautifully the day after baking.
- → Can I substitute the dried cranberries?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can easily substitute the dried cranberries with other dried fruits like chopped dried cherries or apricots for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- → What's the best way to melt white chocolate for the drizzle?
For a smooth drizzle, melt the white chocolate in the microwave in short 15-second intervals. Stir thoroughly after each interval until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted, avoiding overheating.
- → How can I ensure my frosting is smooth and lump-free?
Ensure your cream cheese is well softened before you begin, and use powdered sugar as directed. Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until completely smooth before adding the orange zest and juice.
- → Can I make these bars ahead of time for a gathering?
These bars are an excellent make-ahead dessert! They often taste even better the day after baking as the flavors have more time to meld. Simply store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.