Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful treat that bring a festive flair to your dessert table. Bursting with tangy cranberries and creamy white chocolate, these bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or an afternoon snack. Their blend of rich flavours and delightful textures makes them a favourite among many, and once you’ve tried making them at home, you’ll understand why!
What You’ll Need for Cranberry Bliss Bars
To create these delicious bars, gather the following ingredients:
- 1½ cups (190g) unbleached all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- 12 tablespoons (170g) unsalted butter
- 1½ cups (300g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
- ¾ cup (90g) dried cranberries, loosely packed
- 1⅓ cups (200g) white chocolate, chopped or white chocolate chips
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups (190g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest (for frosting)
- ½ cup (60g) dried cranberries, roughly chopped
- ⅔ cup (100g) white chocolate, melted
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, melt the butter, then mix it with the brown sugar until smooth. Stir in the beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
- Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry mixture, then gently fold in the dried cranberries and chopped white chocolate.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, orange juice, and zest. Mix until fully combined.
- Once the bars have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Sprinkle the chopped cranberries and drizzle the melted white chocolate on top for added decoration.
- Chill the bars in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up the frosting. Slice into squares and serve.
How to Serve Cranberry Bliss Bars
These bars can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a lovely afternoon treat. For an extra special touch, serve them on a festive platter alongside some fresh fruits or nuts. They also make great gifts wrapped in cellophane with a pretty ribbon. Everyone will appreciate this sweet delight during the holiday season or any time of year!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For a different flavour profile, try adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the batter for extra crunch.
- If you’re looking to cut down on sweetness, reduce the amount of white chocolate in the bars themselves or the frosting.
- You can switch out the cranberries for other dried fruits, like cherries or apricots, for a unique twist.
Cranberry Bliss Bars FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the bars and prepare the frosting a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge, and slice them just before serving.
What is the best way to store leftover bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months; just make sure to wrap them well!
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be used, but they will require additional sugar to balance their tartness. Consider roughly chopping them and adding a bit of sugar to the batter.
These Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful combination of flavours that everyone will love. Make sure to give them a try, and watch as they disappear from the plate! Enjoy!