Soft, chewy bars with a creamy frosting and bursts of cranberry.
These Cranberry Bliss Bars are the perfect holiday treat, combining tart cranberries, sweet white chocolate, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Inspired by a seasonal favorite, they're ideal for festive gatherings.
Why you'll want it now, These bars are a festive blend of tart cranberries, creamy white chocolate, and tangy frosting.
Why this recipe works
The combination of sweet white chocolate and tangy dried cranberries in a buttery blondie base creates a delightful contrast, while the cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy finish, enhanced by a hint of orange zest.
Equipment
9 x 9 in (23 x 23 cm) baking pan
parchment paper
mixing bowls
whisk
rubber spatula
offset spatula
microwave-safe bowl
How to make it
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9 x 9 in (23 x 23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar, mixing until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, whisking until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the blondie cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth and creamy. Spread evenly over the cooled blondie.
Sprinkle the chopped cranberries over the frosting. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top.
Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing into 16 squares.
Enjoy these Cranberry Bliss Bars with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy holiday treat!
How you'll know it's ready
The bars are ready when the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Convection oven? (and if you don't have one)
If using a convection oven, reduce the temperature to 325°F (160°C) and start checking for readiness a few minutes earlier. Standard oven users, the listed temperature is perfect for you.
Frosting, filling & glaze notes
The frosting should be smooth and spreadable, not runny. It should hold its shape when spread over the bars.
Troubleshooting
If the bars are too dry, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer.
If the frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar until it reaches the desired consistency.
If the bars are overbaked, reduce baking time by a few minutes next time.
If the white chocolate drizzle is too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening and melt again.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Best enjoyed chilled.
Make ahead
The bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Frost and top them the day of serving for best texture.
Variations
Substitute dark chocolate chips for white chocolate for a richer flavor.
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the blondie batter for a warm spice note.
Swap orange zest with lemon zest for a different citrus twist.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
Use fresh cranberries instead of dried for a tart flavor.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but reduce the quantity to 1/3 cup since fresh cranberries are more tart and juicy.
How do I melt white chocolate without burning it?
Melt white chocolate in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Can these bars be frozen?
Yes, freeze the unfrosted bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
Mascarpone cheese can be used as a substitute for a slightly different flavor.
Recipe from softsweetdough.com · Soft, sweet desserts worth every bite.
