Cranberry Bliss Bars Copycat

If you love the festive flavors of the holidays but want to enjoy them any time of year, these Cranberry Bliss Bars Copycat are exactly what you need. Inspired by a beloved coffeehouse treat, these bars strike the perfect balance of tart cranberries, sweet white chocolate, and a luscious cream cheese frosting with a hint of orange zest. They’re chewy, moist, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just a cozy night in, this recipe brings that magical blend of tastes right to your kitchen countertop.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are a fantastic twist on traditional blondies, combining the zing of dried cranberries with the smooth sweetness of white chocolate. You’ll appreciate how easy they are to make with simple pantry staples and how the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy finish that complements the bar’s richness perfectly. Plus, the subtle orange zest brightness makes these bars feel fresh and festive without being overpowering. If you enjoy cozy flavors and a bit of holiday nostalgia, these bars will quickly become a go-to in your baking rotation.

Ingredient Rundown

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for these bars, providing structure and chewiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly, keeping them tender.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Gives the bars a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together for a chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 1 cup dried cranberries: Tart bursts of flavor that contrast the sweetness beautifully.
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips: Melt into pockets of creamy sweetness throughout the bars.
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: For the frosting, giving it that signature tang and creaminess.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: Brightens both the bars and the frosting with fresh citrus notes.

What’s in the Gear List

• Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Electric mixer or hand whisk – to cream butter and sugar smoothly and whip the frosting.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure precise ingredient amounts.
• 8×8 inch baking pan – perfect size for these bars.
• Parchment paper – to line the pan for easy removal and cleanup.
• Spatula – for folding in cranberries and chocolate chips evenly.
• Grater or zester – to get fresh orange zest.

Cranberry Bliss Bars Copycat: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the bars out once baked.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is key to a tender, chewy texture.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

Step 6: Fold in Cranberries and White Chocolate

Using a spatula, gently fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean but with a few moist crumbs. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and orange zest together until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Frost and Chill

Once the bars have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate the bars for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set before slicing into squares.

Make It Year-Round

• Swap the dried cranberries for dried cherries or raspberries for a berry twist.
• Try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Use lemon zest instead of orange for a different citrus note.
• Incorporate Cranberry Orange Pound Cake flavors to inspire creative dessert pairings.

Method to the Madness

These bars come together quickly because the method is straightforward: cream, mix, fold, and bake. The key to success is not overmixing the batter once the flour is added. This helps maintain a soft, tender crumb rather than a tough texture. The cream cheese frosting is intentionally kept simple and slightly tangy to balance out the sweetness of the bars. Using fresh orange zest instead of extract gives a brighter, more natural citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Because of the cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is important to keep the topping fresh and safe. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars (without frosting) in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting and serving. These bars also travel well, making them perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or just a treat to enjoy throughout the week.

Quick Questions

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries have a lot of moisture and tartness, so they aren’t ideal for this recipe. Dried cranberries provide chewiness and concentrated flavor without adding extra liquid to the batter.

Is it okay to substitute white chocolate chips with regular chocolate chips?

Yes! Regular or even dark chocolate chips will work, but it will change the flavor profile. White chocolate offers a creamy sweetness that pairs well with cranberries, so expect a different taste if you switch.

Can I make the bars vegan?

To make a vegan version, use plant-based butter, a flax egg substitute, and vegan cream cheese. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might be slightly different, but still delicious.

Why is the orange zest important in this recipe?

Orange zest adds a fresh citrus aroma and brightness that lifts the richness of the bars and frosting. It’s a subtle but essential flavor component that makes these bars stand out.

Keep Cooking

• For another luscious cream cheese treat, try the Pumpkin Roll Cake With Cream Cheese Filling.
• Explore more festive bar recipes to keep your baking exciting all year long.
• Experiment with different dried fruits and nuts to personalize your dessert bars.
• Check out our guides on frosting techniques to perfect your finishing touches.

Before You Go

Remember, the magic of baking comes from both the ingredients and the love you put into it. These Cranberry Bliss Bars Copycat are a simple way to bring joy and warmth to any occasion with flavors that feel both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you’re gifting them or indulging yourself, these bars are sure to become a household favorite. Happy baking!

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