Cranberry Bliss Bars are the sweet, tart treat that can brighten any day. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy bar loaded with creamy white chocolate, tangy cranberries, and a delightful hint of orange zest. The aromas wafting through your kitchen will have everyone lining up for a taste before they even cool down.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Cranberry Bliss Bars
- How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What are Cranberry Bliss Bars?
- How do I store Cranberry Bliss Bars?
- Can I use fresh cranberries in Cranberry Bliss Bars?
- Are there any variations of Cranberry Bliss Bars?
- Conclusion for Cranberry Bliss Bars :
- 📖 Recipe Card
These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply need a pick-me-up during the workweek. They bring back fond memories of cozy evenings with friends and family, sharing stories and laughter over delicious desserts. Don’t worry; I promise the flavor explosion will leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cranberry Bliss Bars are quick to prepare and require minimal effort.
- The combination of tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate creates a delightful flavor profile.
- Their beautiful presentation makes them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table.
- Perfect for holidays, parties, or simply an indulgent treat for yourself.
Ingredients for Cranberry Bliss Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is your base ingredient for that perfect chewy texture in these bars.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key! Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
- Baking Powder: Ensure your bars rise nicely with this essential leavening agent.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors; don’t skip it!
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps bind everything together.
- Brown Sugar: For that deep caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with cranberries.
- Eggs: These provide structure and moisture to your bars.
- Dried Cranberries: Use plump cranberries to add a tangy burst of flavor in each bite.
- White Chocolate Chips: Creamy sweetness that complements the tartness of cranberries perfectly.
- Orange Zest: A touch of citrus brightens up the overall flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later—trust me; it’s worth the effort!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This dry mixture will create a solid foundation for your bliss bars.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stove until smooth. Then mix in brown sugar until fully incorporated before adding eggs and orange zest.
Step 4: Blend Everything Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir gently until just combined—no one likes overmixed dough! Fold in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips for that heavenly finish.
Step 5: Bake
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow them to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using parchment paper. Cut into squares and share with friends—or don’t; I won’t judge if you keep them all to yourself!
Now you’re ready to dive into these delightful Cranberry Bliss Bars! Serve them at gatherings or keep some at home as a tasty treat throughout the week. Happy baking!
You Must Know
- These delightful cranberry bliss bars are not just a treat; they bring the holiday spirit to your kitchen.
- With their festive colors and sweet-tart flavor, they’re perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).
- Bake them for a cozy gathering or simply to brighten your day!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by gathering all your ingredients. First, whip up the creamy frosting while the cranberry mixture simmers. Bake the base, let it cool, then spread on the frosting and top with cranberries for a picture-perfect finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap dried cranberries for raisins or add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness. A pinch of orange zest in the frosting can also elevate these bars to new citrusy heights that will have everyone asking for the secret ingredient.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cranberry bliss bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to save them longer, they freeze beautifully. Just thaw in the fridge before indulging again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that perfect texture, make sure not to overmix your batter; it should be just combined.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother frosting.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving.
I remember the first time I made cranberry bliss bars; my friends devoured them within minutes! Their gleeful expressions made me feel like a baking superstar, and now I whip them up every holiday season without fail.
FAQs :
What are Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of white chocolate and cream cheese frosting. They have a chewy texture and are often enjoyed during the holiday season. These bars are easy to make and can be served at gatherings or as a tasty treat for yourself. With their festive colors and flavors, they bring joy to any occasion.
How do I store Cranberry Bliss Bars?
To store Cranberry Bliss Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze these bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for up to three months when frozen.
Can I use fresh cranberries in Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries in Cranberry Bliss Bars! However, it’s best to chop them coarsely before adding them to the batter. Fresh cranberries can be more tart than dried ones, so you may want to adjust the sugar in your recipe accordingly. Using fresh cranberries will give your bars a vibrant flavor and add a pop of color that’s perfect for festive occasions.
Are there any variations of Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Absolutely! There are many delicious variations of Cranberry Bliss Bars that you can try. For instance, you can substitute white chocolate with dark chocolate or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile. You might also consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. Additionally, using orange zest in the frosting or dough can enhance the overall flavor and give your bars a citrusy twist.
Conclusion for Cranberry Bliss Bars :
In summary, Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delicious treat that blends sweet and tart flavors perfectly. They are simple to make and ideal for sharing during festive seasons or casual gatherings. By following this recipe, you can enjoy these delightful bars at home while experimenting with various ingredients to create your own unique versions. Whether using dried or fresh cranberries, these treats will surely delight your taste buds every time!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 bars 1x
Description
Enjoy these scrumptious Cranberry Bliss Bars, featuring a delightful mix of sweet white chocolate and tangy cranberries, topped with a hint of refreshing orange zest.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs and orange zest; stir until well blended.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Fold in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before lifting out using parchment paper. Cut into squares to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 50g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
