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Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Simple Delight

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The key to making Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars lies in using fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you need for this delightful treat: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - 1 cup packed brown sugar - 1 large egg, room temperature - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/2 cup dried cranberries, coarsely chopped - 1/2 cup white chocolate chips - 1/4 cup freshly grated orange zest (from about 2 medium oranges) - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1 tablespoon milk (or as needed for consistency) Each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour provides structure, while the butter adds richness. Brown sugar gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness. The dried cranberries bring a tart burst that balances the sweetness of the white chocolate chips. Fresh orange zest adds a bright note that makes these bars special. Always make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. This ensures your bars come out just right. Enjoy the process of gathering these items. Each one contributes to your own kitchen magic! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven warms, grab an 8x8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Let some paper hang over the edges. This will help you lift the bars out later. Next, sift together your dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Sifting helps mix the ingredients well and adds air. Set this bowl aside for now. In a large mixing bowl, take 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream these together. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. You want the mix to be light and fluffy. It should look pale when done. Now, add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until these ingredients are fully blended. Gradually add your dry flour mix to the butter mix. Stir gently until the dry ingredients disappear. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps your bars tender. Next, fold in 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips, and 1/4 cup of freshly grated orange zest. Make sure these mix-ins are evenly spread throughout the batter. Then, transfer the batter to your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula. Bake your bars in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean, with just a few moist crumbs. While your bars are baking, make the frosting. In a small mixing bowl, beat 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. Use a handheld mixer until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Keep mixing until combined. Pour in 1 tablespoon of milk little by little until the frosting is spreadable. After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Lift them out using the parchment paper and place them on a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over each bar. For a finishing touch, garnish with extra chopped cranberries and a light sprinkle of orange zest. - Avoiding overmixing: Mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing makes the bars tough. You want them soft and tender. - Ensuring even distribution of ingredients: Use a spatula to fold in the cranberries and white chocolate. This helps spread them out well in the batter. - Achieving the right texture: Start with softened cream cheese for smooth frosting. Add powdered sugar slowly. Mix until creamy. If too thick, add a bit of milk. Aim for spreadable, yet firm enough to hold its shape. - Keeping bars fresh for longer: Store your bars in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. - Reheating tips: If you want a warm treat, heat each bar in the microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy the gooey white chocolate with your coffee! Pro Tips Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allowing butter and cream cheese to come to room temperature ensures they blend smoothly, resulting in a creamier frosting and a more uniform batter. Don't Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of light and fluffy ones. Chill for Better Cutting: For perfectly cut bars, consider chilling them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes after frosting. This makes them easier to slice and helps the frosting set. Add Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor by incorporating a splash of orange juice into the frosting or adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, festive touch. {{image_4}} You can easily switch ingredients to meet your needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour. This works well and keeps the bars soft. Just make sure to check the label for safe use. If you want a vegan treat, swap the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. For cream cheese, try a plant-based version. Both changes keep the taste rich and creamy without animal products. Want to jazz up your bars? Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy bite. You can also substitute dried cranberries with other dried fruits, like cherries or apricots. Each choice adds a unique twist and keeps things exciting. While orange cream cheese frosting is a delight, you can try other flavors. Consider a chocolate frosting for a rich taste or a lemon frosting for a zesty zing. Each frosting pairs well with the base and makes the bars feel new. To keep your cranberry bliss bars fresh, you have options. You can store them at room temperature for a short time. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container. This keeps the bars soft and tasty. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is best. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the fridge. This helps prevent drying and keeps flavors intact. Freezing these bars is easy and great for long-term storage. First, let the bars cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you want to enjoy them, take out the number you need. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. They will taste fresh and delicious! These bars have a good shelf life. At room temperature, they last about 3 days. In the fridge, they can stay fresh for up to a week. If you freeze them, they can last for 2 to 3 months. This makes them a perfect treat for any time of year! Enjoy your homemade cranberry bliss bars whenever you like. You can use several tasty options. Here are some ideas: - Milk chocolate chips: They add a sweet twist. - Dark chocolate chips: Use these for a rich flavor. - Carob chips: A great choice if you want a caffeine-free option. - Chopped nuts: Almonds or pecans add a nice crunch. These swaps can change the taste, so pick one that you love! Yes, you can prep these bars in advance. Here are tips: - Baking: Make the bars a day or two before serving. - Storage: Keep them in an airtight container at room temp. - Frosting: Frost the bars just before serving for a fresh look. This way, you save time and enjoy your treat more! Adjusting sweetness is easy! Here’s how: - Reduce sugar: Cut down the brown sugar by a little. - Use alternatives: Try honey or maple syrup instead of sugar. - Taste as you go: Add a bit more if it’s not sweet enough. Find the right balance that makes your taste buds happy! Cutting these bars neatly is key. Here’s how to do it: - Use a sharp knife: This helps prevent squishing the bars. - Warm the knife: Dip it in hot water, then dry it off. - Cut straight down: Don’t saw back and forth; this keeps edges clean. This technique will give you nice, even squares every time! This blog post guides you through baking sweet, creamy bars with easy steps. You learned about the key ingredients, preparation methods, and tips for perfect results. As you explore variations, you’ll see ways to customize these bars to your taste. Storing and reheating them lets you enjoy them longer. Have fun baking and sharing these tasty treats. They will surely impress family and friends. It's all about enjoying the process and savoring the delicious outcome. Happy baking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving something sweet and festive? You’re in the right place! Today, I’m sharing a simple recipe for Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars that’s sure to delight your taste buds. With just a few simple ingredients like dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, you can whip up these delicious treats in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into this fun and easy baking adventure that will impress friends and family alike!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: The tartness of cranberries paired with the sweetness of white chocolate and the citrusy kick of orange zest creates a festive and delightful treat.
  2. Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. It’s a great way to whip up a sweet treat in no time!
  3. Perfect for Sharing: These bars are cut into squares, making them an ideal dessert for parties, gatherings, or just to share with friends and family during the holidays.
  4. Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the cranberries and orange zest, along with the creamy frosting, make for a visually appealing dessert that impresses anyone at the table.

Ingredients

The key to making Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars lies in using fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you need for this delightful treat:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

– 1 cup packed brown sugar

– 1 large egg, room temperature

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1/2 cup dried cranberries, coarsely chopped

– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

– 1/4 cup freshly grated orange zest (from about 2 medium oranges)

– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

– 1/2 cup powdered sugar

– 1 tablespoon milk (or as needed for consistency)

Each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour provides structure, while the butter adds richness. Brown sugar gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness. The dried cranberries bring a tart burst that balances the sweetness of the white chocolate chips. Fresh orange zest adds a bright note that makes these bars special.

Always make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. This ensures your bars come out just right. Enjoy the process of gathering these items. Each one contributes to your own kitchen magic!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Baking Dish

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven warms, grab an 8×8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Let some paper hang over the edges. This will help you lift the bars out later.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

Next, sift together your dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Sifting helps mix the ingredients well and adds air. Set this bowl aside for now.

Creaming Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, take 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream these together. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. You want the mix to be light and fluffy. It should look pale when done.

Combining Ingredients

Now, add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until these ingredients are fully blended. Gradually add your dry flour mix to the butter mix. Stir gently until the dry ingredients disappear. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps your bars tender.

Next, fold in 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips, and 1/4 cup of freshly grated orange zest. Make sure these mix-ins are evenly spread throughout the batter. Then, transfer the batter to your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula.

Baking the Bars

Bake your bars in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean, with just a few moist crumbs.

Making the Frosting

While your bars are baking, make the frosting. In a small mixing bowl, beat 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. Use a handheld mixer until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Keep mixing until combined. Pour in 1 tablespoon of milk little by little until the frosting is spreadable.

Final Assembly

After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Lift them out using the parchment paper and place them on a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over each bar. For a finishing touch, garnish with extra chopped cranberries and a light sprinkle of orange zest.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Mixing

– Avoiding overmixing: Mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing makes the bars tough. You want them soft and tender.

– Ensuring even distribution of ingredients: Use a spatula to fold in the cranberries and white chocolate. This helps spread them out well in the batter.

Frosting Consistency

– Achieving the right texture: Start with softened cream cheese for smooth frosting. Add powdered sugar slowly. Mix until creamy. If too thick, add a bit of milk. Aim for spreadable, yet firm enough to hold its shape.

Storage and Reheating Suggestions

– Keeping bars fresh for longer: Store your bars in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days.

– Reheating tips: If you want a warm treat, heat each bar in the microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy the gooey white chocolate with your coffee!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allowing butter and cream cheese to come to room temperature ensures they blend smoothly, resulting in a creamier frosting and a more uniform batter.
  2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of light and fluffy ones.
  3. Chill for Better Cutting: For perfectly cut bars, consider chilling them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes after frosting. This makes them easier to slice and helps the frosting set.
  4. Add Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor by incorporating a splash of orange juice into the frosting or adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, festive touch.

Variations

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily switch ingredients to meet your needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour. This works well and keeps the bars soft. Just make sure to check the label for safe use.

If you want a vegan treat, swap the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. For cream cheese, try a plant-based version. Both changes keep the taste rich and creamy without animal products.

Flavor Enhancements

Want to jazz up your bars? Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy bite. You can also substitute dried cranberries with other dried fruits, like cherries or apricots. Each choice adds a unique twist and keeps things exciting.

Frosting Alternatives

While orange cream cheese frosting is a delight, you can try other flavors. Consider a chocolate frosting for a rich taste or a lemon frosting for a zesty zing. Each frosting pairs well with the base and makes the bars feel new.

Storage Info

Best Storage Practices

To keep your cranberry bliss bars fresh, you have options. You can store them at room temperature for a short time. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container. This keeps the bars soft and tasty. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is best. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the fridge. This helps prevent drying and keeps flavors intact.

Freezing Tips

Freezing these bars is easy and great for long-term storage. First, let the bars cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you want to enjoy them, take out the number you need. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. They will taste fresh and delicious!

Shelf Life

These bars have a good shelf life. At room temperature, they last about 3 days. In the fridge, they can stay fresh for up to a week. If you freeze them, they can last for 2 to 3 months. This makes them a perfect treat for any time of year! Enjoy your homemade cranberry bliss bars whenever you like.

FAQs

What can I substitute for white chocolate chips?

You can use several tasty options. Here are some ideas:

– Milk chocolate chips: They add a sweet twist.

– Dark chocolate chips: Use these for a rich flavor.

– Carob chips: A great choice if you want a caffeine-free option.

– Chopped nuts: Almonds or pecans add a nice crunch.

These swaps can change the taste, so pick one that you love!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep these bars in advance. Here are tips:

– Baking: Make the bars a day or two before serving.

– Storage: Keep them in an airtight container at room temp.

– Frosting: Frost the bars just before serving for a fresh look.

This way, you save time and enjoy your treat more!

How can I adjust sweetness for my preference?

Adjusting sweetness is easy! Here’s how:

– Reduce sugar: Cut down the brown sugar by a little.

– Use alternatives: Try honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.

– Taste as you go: Add a bit more if it’s not sweet enough.

Find the right balance that makes your taste buds happy!

What’s the best way to cut these bars?

Cutting these bars neatly is key. Here’s how to do it:

– Use a sharp knife: This helps prevent squishing the bars.

– Warm the knife: Dip it in hot water, then dry it off.

– Cut straight down: Don’t saw back and forth; this keeps edges clean.

This technique will give you nice, even squares every time!

This blog post guides you through baking sweet, creamy bars with easy steps. You learned about the key ingredients, preparation methods, and tips for perfect results. As you explore variations, you’ll see ways to customize these bars to your taste. Storing and reheating them lets you enjoy them longer. Have fun baking and sharing these tasty treats. They will surely impress family and friends. It’s all about enjoying the process and savoring the delicious outcome. Happy bakin

The key to making Copycat Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars lies in using fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you need for this delightful treat: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - 1 cup packed brown sugar - 1 large egg, room temperature - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/2 cup dried cranberries, coarsely chopped - 1/2 cup white chocolate chips - 1/4 cup freshly grated orange zest (from about 2 medium oranges) - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1 tablespoon milk (or as needed for consistency) Each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour provides structure, while the butter adds richness. Brown sugar gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness. The dried cranberries bring a tart burst that balances the sweetness of the white chocolate chips. Fresh orange zest adds a bright note that makes these bars special. Always make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. This ensures your bars come out just right. Enjoy the process of gathering these items. Each one contributes to your own kitchen magic! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven warms, grab an 8x8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Let some paper hang over the edges. This will help you lift the bars out later. Next, sift together your dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Sifting helps mix the ingredients well and adds air. Set this bowl aside for now. In a large mixing bowl, take 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream these together. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. You want the mix to be light and fluffy. It should look pale when done. Now, add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until these ingredients are fully blended. Gradually add your dry flour mix to the butter mix. Stir gently until the dry ingredients disappear. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps your bars tender. Next, fold in 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips, and 1/4 cup of freshly grated orange zest. Make sure these mix-ins are evenly spread throughout the batter. Then, transfer the batter to your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula. Bake your bars in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean, with just a few moist crumbs. While your bars are baking, make the frosting. In a small mixing bowl, beat 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. Use a handheld mixer until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Keep mixing until combined. Pour in 1 tablespoon of milk little by little until the frosting is spreadable. After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Lift them out using the parchment paper and place them on a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over each bar. For a finishing touch, garnish with extra chopped cranberries and a light sprinkle of orange zest. - Avoiding overmixing: Mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing makes the bars tough. You want them soft and tender. - Ensuring even distribution of ingredients: Use a spatula to fold in the cranberries and white chocolate. This helps spread them out well in the batter. - Achieving the right texture: Start with softened cream cheese for smooth frosting. Add powdered sugar slowly. Mix until creamy. If too thick, add a bit of milk. Aim for spreadable, yet firm enough to hold its shape. - Keeping bars fresh for longer: Store your bars in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. - Reheating tips: If you want a warm treat, heat each bar in the microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy the gooey white chocolate with your coffee! Pro Tips Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allowing butter and cream cheese to come to room temperature ensures they blend smoothly, resulting in a creamier frosting and a more uniform batter. Don't Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of light and fluffy ones. Chill for Better Cutting: For perfectly cut bars, consider chilling them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes after frosting. This makes them easier to slice and helps the frosting set. Add Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor by incorporating a splash of orange juice into the frosting or adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, festive touch. {{image_4}} You can easily switch ingredients to meet your needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour. This works well and keeps the bars soft. Just make sure to check the label for safe use. If you want a vegan treat, swap the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. For cream cheese, try a plant-based version. Both changes keep the taste rich and creamy without animal products. Want to jazz up your bars? Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy bite. You can also substitute dried cranberries with other dried fruits, like cherries or apricots. Each choice adds a unique twist and keeps things exciting. While orange cream cheese frosting is a delight, you can try other flavors. Consider a chocolate frosting for a rich taste or a lemon frosting for a zesty zing. Each frosting pairs well with the base and makes the bars feel new. To keep your cranberry bliss bars fresh, you have options. You can store them at room temperature for a short time. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container. This keeps the bars soft and tasty. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is best. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the fridge. This helps prevent drying and keeps flavors intact. Freezing these bars is easy and great for long-term storage. First, let the bars cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you want to enjoy them, take out the number you need. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. They will taste fresh and delicious! These bars have a good shelf life. At room temperature, they last about 3 days. In the fridge, they can stay fresh for up to a week. If you freeze them, they can last for 2 to 3 months. This makes them a perfect treat for any time of year! Enjoy your homemade cranberry bliss bars whenever you like. You can use several tasty options. Here are some ideas: - Milk chocolate chips: They add a sweet twist. - Dark chocolate chips: Use these for a rich flavor. - Carob chips: A great choice if you want a caffeine-free option. - Chopped nuts: Almonds or pecans add a nice crunch. These swaps can change the taste, so pick one that you love! Yes, you can prep these bars in advance. Here are tips: - Baking: Make the bars a day or two before serving. - Storage: Keep them in an airtight container at room temp. - Frosting: Frost the bars just before serving for a fresh look. This way, you save time and enjoy your treat more! Adjusting sweetness is easy! Here’s how: - Reduce sugar: Cut down the brown sugar by a little. - Use alternatives: Try honey or maple syrup instead of sugar. - Taste as you go: Add a bit more if it’s not sweet enough. Find the right balance that makes your taste buds happy! Cutting these bars neatly is key. Here’s how to do it: - Use a sharp knife: This helps prevent squishing the bars. - Warm the knife: Dip it in hot water, then dry it off. - Cut straight down: Don’t saw back and forth; this keeps edges clean. This technique will give you nice, even squares every time! This blog post guides you through baking sweet, creamy bars with easy steps. You learned about the key ingredients, preparation methods, and tips for perfect results. As you explore variations, you’ll see ways to customize these bars to your taste. Storing and reheating them lets you enjoy them longer. Have fun baking and sharing these tasty treats. They will surely impress family and friends. It's all about enjoying the process and savoring the delicious outcome. Happy baking!

Cranberry Bliss Bars with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Delicious cranberry bars topped with a creamy orange-flavored frosting.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated orange zest (from about 2 medium oranges)
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon milk (or as needed for consistency)

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some paper to hang over the edges for easy lifting later.
  • In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This aerates the dry ingredients and ensures even mixing. Set this mixture aside.
  • In a separate large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and packed brown sugar together. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale—about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until these ingredients are fully incorporated.
  • Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the butter mixture, gently stirring just until the dry ingredients disappear. Take care not to overmix to keep the bars tender.
  • Gently fold in the chopped dried cranberries, white chocolate chips, and freshly grated orange zest until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  • Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (with a few moist crumbs).
  • While the bars are baking, prepare the frosting. In a small mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a handheld mixer until creamy and smooth.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until combined. Pour in the milk little by little until you reach your desired frosting consistency; it should be spreadable yet still hold its shape.
  • Once the bars have baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Carefully lift the cooled bars out using the parchment paper, and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
  • When cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of each bar. For a lovely finishing touch, garnish with extra chopped cranberries and a light sprinkle of orange zest.

Notes

For an elegant display, serve the bars on a decorative platter and place a few fresh cranberries and orange slices around them. Enjoy your festive treat!
Keyword bars, cranberry, dessert, frosting, orange

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