Cranberry Bliss Bars

Name: Cranberry Bliss Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries; 1/2 cup white chocolate chips; 4 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon milk

Cranberry bliss bars are a festive treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with a creamy frosting, creating a deliciously balanced dessert. These bars are not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing during the holidays or any gathering. With their bright flavors and beautiful presentation, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups dried cranberries
1/2 cup white chocolate chips
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields approximately 16 bars. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes, making it a quick and enjoyable dessert to whip up.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 bar) contains approximately 250 calories, 12g fat, 35g carbohydrates, and 2g protein. This is based on a standard serving size of one bar.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the dried cranberries with dried cherries or raisins for a different flavor. For a healthier option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese in the frosting.

Serving and Pairings

These cranberry bliss bars pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to holiday dessert trays alongside cookies and other sweets.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cranberry bliss bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw before serving.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bars, so mix just until combined.
Not greasing the pan properly can cause sticking; always ensure it’s well greased.
Using cold ingredients can affect the texture; make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature.
Don’t skip the cooling time; frosting should be applied to cooled bars.
Using too much flour can lead to dry bars, so measure accurately.

Helpful Tips

For a festive touch, sprinkle some extra cranberries on top of the frosting.
Chill the bars in the fridge for a firmer texture before cutting.
Experiment with adding different nuts for added crunch.
Consider drizzling white chocolate over the top for decoration.

FAQs

Can I make cranberry bliss bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these bars a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and frost them just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of white chocolate?

You can use dark chocolate chips or omit the chocolate entirely for a simpler flavor.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunch to the bars.

Are these bars gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

How long do these bars last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last up to a week in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Cranberry bliss bars are a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor to any occasion. Their sweet and tart profile makes them a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests.