Okay, picture this: What’s Is it a chilly December evening, the Christmas lights are twinkling, and the scent of cinnamon and clove is strong? What are some of the citrus smells in the kitchen? What is it like to eat Cranberry Bliss Bars? Is it easier to make gingerbread cookies than the cookie dough? Isn’t it more satisfying to be in a restaurant? What makes these a perfect combination of sweet, tart, and just the right amount of zing? My family starts begging for me right after Thanksgiving!
What are Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Think of cranberry bliss bars as the love child of the blondie and the muffin, all in one. How do I dress up for the holidays? What is a candy bar with dried cranberries and white chocolate chips? With a tangy Cream Cheese Frosting and sprinkling of orange zest. The name itself just evokes that feeling of pure bliss – the kind you get when you finally kick your ego. After a long day of shopping, how do I keep my feet up after sneezing? What is that perfect combination of flavors and textures that just works?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What I love about this recipe is how utterly foolproof it is. Is it necessary to be a master baker to make these Cranberry Bliss Bars? They are ridiculously easy, and the results are always impressive. Why do you need flavor explosions in your life? ** The combination of tart cranberries, sweet white chocolate, and zesty orange is simply divine. Is it a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue? * **Effortless Elegance: ** These bars look and taste like you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen, but the truth is, they aren’t. Is there a way to get them together in under an hour? What are some great potlucks to throw, or just a cozy night out? What are some of the best ingredients to make these bar? Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making them a budget-friendly treat for any occasion. * **Versatile Vibes: **While perfect for the holidays, these cranberry bliss bars are delicious anytime of year. Is it possible to substitute dried cranberries for dried fruits like cherries or blueberries? How do you create your own version of something? What’s a great way to use what you have on hand? If you like my lemon bars or maybe my classic chocolate brownies, then you will absolutely love them. I love these cranberry bliss bars. They are so delicious What is the same chewiness with a festive twist?
How do I make Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Quick Overview
How do you whisk together dry ingredients, cream together wet ingredients? Combine them, stir in the cranberries and white chocolate, bake until golden brown, and then slather on top. If desired, serve warm. Is Cream Cheese Frosting good for cake? How easy is it to get a job? What is the best way to keep the bars from overbaking? I promise, even if you’re a baking newbie, you can nail this! What is the best layered cake?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: What is the main weapon
* 1 12 cups all-purpose flour: I usually use unbleached, but either works fine. * 34 teaspoon baking powder: Make sure it’s fresh! Does baking soda give rise? What’s the use of baking soda? * ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Let it sit out at room temperature for at least an hour so it’s nice and creamy. * 34 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning. * 14 cup packed light brown sugar: For that extra bit of caramel-y flavor. * One large egg: * 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Adds richness and binds the ingredients together. *1 teaspoon cinnamon extract. What is the best sour cream recipe? Is Greek yogurt good for a tangy mouthfeel? * 1 cup dried cranberries: I prefer the sweetened kind, but unsweetened works too – just adjust the sugar in the batter. * 12 cup white chocolate chips: Adds that signature bliss bar sweetness. I love Ghirardelli. They are my favorite.
For the Glaze:
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Again, make sure it’s nice and soft so it blends smoothly. * 3 cups powdered sugar: Sift it to avoid lumps in the frosting. * 14 cup (12 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Just like with the batter, make sure it’s soften. * 2 tablespoons orange juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled works too. * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Everything is better with vanilla! * 12 teaspoon orange zest: Adds a burst of citrusy flavor.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. If you have an overhang on the sides, you can also line it with parchment paper, leaving a gap between them for easy removal. I always do this, because it makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Whisking is key here – it helps to distribute the ingredients evenly and prevent any lumps. This ensures a light and airy texture.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light. Set aside. Use an electric mixer for this – it makes the process much easier. Beat the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Then, stir in the sour cream. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix – this will result in tough bars. The batter should be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Gently fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. I sometimes like to add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. This recipe is very easy to make.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
How do you spread the batter in a baking pan? This part doesn’t take long but it will make a big difference.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist spots. What are the crumbs Keep a close eye on them – ovens can vary, and you don’t want to overbake them. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should not be set.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting. If you frost them while they’re still warm, the frosting will melt. While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Do not overmix. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Beat in the orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Mix well. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
I like to sprinkle extra orange zest on top of each bar. Cut into bars and serve. Can you store cranberry bliss bars in an airtight container? Can you store a container at room temperature for up to 3 days?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best cranberry bliss bars? What’s better for breakfast than a bliss bar? What’s the perfect way to start your day with a touch of sweetness? ** Arrange the bars on a platter with fresh fruit and yogurt or granola. What are some great additions to a brunch spread? ** Serve these bars as an after-dinner treat with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. What are some of the best cozy snacks to serve with a glass of wine? What would you serve with a cup of hot chocolate or spiced tea? What are some of the best comfort foods? In my family, we have a tradition of making these cranberry bliss bars every Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Enjoy them with a glass of eggnog while we open presents. I cherish this tradition that I hope to pass down to future generations.
How do I make Cranberry Bliss Bars?
I’ve made these cranberry bliss bars more times than I can count, so I have definitely learned a thing or two. What are some tricks along the way? What is the best way to achieve bliss bar perfection? ** Don’t even think about using margarine! What is the difference between real butter and chocolate bars? If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use Greek yogurt. What is the Cranberry Conundrum? If you only have unsweetened cranberries, add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar to the batter. **White Chocolate Wonders:** Use high-quality white chocolate chips. Why do orange zests have a richer flavor? ** Don’t skip the orange zest in the frosting! It adds a citrusy flavor that complements the cranberries and white chocolate perfectly. **Overmixing Mishap:** Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough bars. Mix until just combined. Don’t overbake the bars! They should be soft in the center. Overbaked bars will be dry and crumbly. **Glaze Guidance: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more orange juice. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. **Cooling is Crucial: ** Let the bars cool completely before frosting. If you frost them while they’re still warm, the frosting will melt and slide off. I’ve made that mistake before, and it’s not pretty! **Swirl Secrets: I like to create a swirl pattern on top of the frosting by drizzling some melted white frosting. Is it safe to drizzle chocolate over the frosting and use a toothpick to swirl it around? I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier! Is experimentation fun?
What are the best Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any cranberry bliss bars leftover (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store them:
**Room Temperature:** Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay nice and soft.
**Refrigerator Storage:** For longer storage, store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
**Freezer Instructions:** These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
**Glaze Timing Advice:** If you’re planning to freeze the bars, it’s best to freeze them without the frosting. Then, make the frosting fresh when you’re ready to serve them.
When you are ready to serve them, you can cut them into smaller pieces or reheat them slightly in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.
What are the most frequently asked questions on
Final Thoughts
What are cranberry bliss bars? What are some of the best combinations of cranberries, white chocolate, and orange? What are some of the easiest desserts to make? If you love gingerbread cookies, you should check out my recipe. I know you’ll love that one too! Happy baking and can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Is there any way to leave a comment on this recipe?
Cranberry Bliss Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup butter melted
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine cranberries and sugar.
- In another bowl, cream together butter, flour, and baking powder.
- Add the cranberry mixture to the flour mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
