Cranberry Bliss Bars Treat

These Cranberry Bliss Bars are a homemade take on a famous coffee shop favorite featuring tender blondie layers packed with white chocolate and cranberries topped with creamy orange-kissed frosting. They have become my go-to treat whenever I want to share something special for holiday gatherings or cozy movie nights.

When I first tried making these bars at home I realized they taste even fresher than the originals and disappear quickly at every party I bring them to.

Ingredients

• Unbleached all-purpose flour: contributes stable structure for perfect bars look for a fine soft texture when buying
• Baking powder: gives gentle lift and keeps the bars tender check freshness before using
• Table salt: balances sweetness and deepens flavor choose a fine grind for even distribution
• Unsalted butter: makes the crumb moist and rich opt for good-quality butter for the best results
• Light brown sugar: gives a caramel-like flavor and chewy bite make sure it is fresh and free-flowing
• Large eggs: bind everything together and promote richness use eggs at room temperature for easy blending
• Vanilla extract: delivers warmth and aromatic sweetness pick pure vanilla for flavor that stands out
• Finely grated orange zest: adds a citrus kick that brightens every bite select unblemished firm oranges
• Dried cranberries: provide chewy tart pops of color choose plump cranberries for juiciness
• White chocolate: lends creamy sweetness pick high-quality bars or chips that melt smoothly
• Cream cheese: makes the frosting tangy and extra luscious choose full-fat cream cheese for the best texture
• Confectioners sugar: sweetens and thickens the frosting sift to prevent lumps
• Orange juice: brings moisture and amplifies the citrus notes use freshly squeezed for brightest flavor

Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Line a nine by thirteen inch baking pan with parchment paper making sure you have extra on the sides for easy lifting later. Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for even baking.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl whisk together the flour baking powder and salt until well combined so you do not get pockets of flavor. Set aside to be added later.

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In a large bowl place the soft unsalted butter with the packed light brown sugar. With a hand mixer blend them on medium speed for two to three minutes until the mixture turns fluffy pale and holds soft peaks. Scrape the bowl to mix fully.

Add Eggs and Flavors:

Crack the eggs into a small bowl and give them a quick beat. Add the eggs vanilla extract and grated orange zest to the butter mixture. Beat until everything just comes together and you do not see streaks of egg.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in two batches mixing gently with a spatula or mixer on low. Fold carefully until just blended so the dough stays tender.

Fold in Cranberries and White Chocolate:

Scatter in the dried cranberries and white chocolate then gently fold all around the batter until evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars soft.

Bake the Blondie Base:

Spread the thick batter into your prepared pan smoothing the top with an offset spatula or back of a spoon. Bake for twenty four to twenty eight minutes checking that a toothpick inserted at the center comes out clean with few crumbs but no wet batter. Cool completely in the pan on a rack to set firm.

Make the Frosting:

In a clean bowl beat softened cream cheese until very smooth. Add in melted white chocolate confectioners sugar vanilla extract orange juice and orange zest. Mix until creamy no lumps remain and it holds soft peaks.

Frost the Bars:

Once the blondie has fully cooled evenly spread the frosting right to the corners using an offset spatula. Take your time for a smooth finish.

Decorate with Cranberries and White Chocolate:

Evenly sprinkle the top with chopped dried cranberries then drizzle with extra melted white chocolate in thin stripes for a pretty look and extra sweetness.

Chill and Slice:

Transfer the pan to the refrigerator for at least one hour so the frosting firms up and the flavors meld. When ready gently lift the bars out using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares or triangles with a sharp knife cleaning the blade between cuts for neat edges.

The combination of orange zest and white chocolate is what makes these bars extra special to me. My daughter always asks to help with the drizzling step and our kitchen smells like the holidays every time we make them.

Storage Tips

Keep the bars chilled in an airtight container for up to five days. If stacking use wax paper or parchment between layers so the frosting stays neat. For longer storage you can freeze the bars individually wrapped then thaw in the refrigerator overnight for a fresh bite.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap lemon zest in place of orange for a zingy twist or use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a less sweet version. For a gluten-free option use your favorite measure for measure gluten-free flour blend just make sure to check all other ingredient labels for hidden gluten. If you like nuts add a half cup of chopped toasted walnuts for crunch though the original does not include them.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the bars into triangles for a classic coffee shop presentation or cut into small squares for a bite-sized sweet on party trays. These pair beautifully with spiced tea hot chocolate or a creamy coffee after dinner.

Cultural and Seasonal Touch

Cranberry Bliss Bars shine around winter holidays thanks to the vibrant cranberry and nostalgic flavors. You might spot them on bakery counters in November and December but they also brighten any spring brunch or summer potluck with their citrus twist.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use fresh cranberries chopped and tossed in flour for a tart kick when in season. Swap orange for clementine zest for a milder citrus flavor. Dress up with edible flowers or colored sprinkles for special occasions.

Success Stories

The first time I brought a batch to a holiday cookie exchange not a crumb came home with me. Now friends request these bars by name for birthdays and summer barbecues too. They truly make any celebration just a little more blissful.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze wrap each fully set bar snugly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer safe bag. These will keep their flavor and texture for up to two months. When you crave one for dessert or a lunch treat just move to the fridge to thaw overnight and enjoy chilled.

These bliss bars bring joy to every holiday table and are just as delightful any time of year. Try a batch soon and see why they are an instant favorite.

Recipe FAQs

→ What gives these bars their signature flavor?

The combination of orange zest, dried cranberries, and white chocolate delivers a unique, vibrant profile typical of these bars.

→ Can different types of chocolate be used?

White chocolate is traditional for both the batter and the drizzle, but you can experiment with milk or dark chocolate for variation.

→ How do I ensure moist, chewy texture?

Be careful not to overbake; the bars should be just set in the center for optimal chewiness and softness.

→ Should the bars be refrigerated after frosting?

Yes, chilling the bars helps set the creamy topping and makes cutting them into neat squares much easier.

→ Can I freeze finished bars?

You can freeze the bars after frosting, wrapping them well to preserve freshness. Thaw in the fridge before serving.