Introduction to Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving those delightful Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat that always bring a smile to my face. These bars are not just a treat; they’re a warm hug in dessert form! Perfect for busy moms like us, they’re quick to whip up and even easier to share. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to indulge after a long day, this recipe is your go-to. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds, and you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat
These Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat are a dream come true for busy lives. They come together in just 40 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re a festive treat that adds a touch of holiday magic to any occasion. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how quickly they disappear!
Ingredients for Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your bars, providing structure and a soft texture.
- Baking powder: This little leavening agent helps the bars rise, giving them that perfect fluffy bite.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Brown sugar: This brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with cranberries.
- Large eggs: They bind everything together and add a lovely richness to the bars.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this aromatic essence elevates the flavor profile.
- Dried cranberries: The star of the show! Their tartness complements the sweetness of the bars.
- White chocolate chips: These little gems add a creamy sweetness that makes each bite heavenly.
- Cream cheese: Used in the frosting, it adds a tangy richness that balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: This sweetens the frosting and gives it that smooth, spreadable texture.
- Milk: Just a splash helps achieve the perfect consistency for the frosting.
- Vanilla extract (for frosting): A touch of this in the frosting ties all the flavors together.
Feel free to get creative! You can add nuts for extra crunch or swap in different types of chocolate if you prefer. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything you need for printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect bake. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray for this. A well-greased pan ensures your Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat come out easily, without any sticky surprises. Trust me, you want to avoid that!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is important because it ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour. A good mix will help your bars rise beautifully. Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids involved—let them whisk away while you handle the wet ingredients!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon to beat them until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The goal is to incorporate air into the mixture, which will help your bars achieve that delightful texture. It’s like giving your batter a little spa treatment!
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now it’s time to add the eggs and vanilla extract to your butter and sugar mixture. Crack the eggs in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in that aromatic vanilla extract. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to your bars. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. You’ll start to see the batter come together beautifully!
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I like to do this in thirds, mixing gently after each addition. This method helps prevent any lumps and ensures a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until you see no more flour. The batter should be thick and luscious, ready to embrace those delicious add-ins!
Step 6: Fold in Cranberries and Chocolate
Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips. Use a spatula to carefully mix them into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. This step is where the magic happens—the tartness of the cranberries and the sweetness of the chocolate create a perfect harmony. It’s like a holiday party in your bowl!
Step 7: Bake the Bars
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared baking pan. Make sure to smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!
Step 8: Cool and Frost
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. This step is essential for easy frosting. While they cool, prepare your frosting by beating together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the bars are cool, spread the frosting generously over the top. Cut them into squares, and voilà! Your Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat are ready to be devoured!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing; it should be at room temperature.
- Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay for a tender texture.
- Let the bars cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for clean edges.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for even baking; you can use a glass or metal pan.
- Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can also use a large pot.
- Electric mixer: Great for creaming butter and sugar; a whisk works too!
- Spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients; a wooden spoon can do the trick.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; you can use a kitchen scale if preferred.
Variations
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
- Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter and flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Spices: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Fruit variations: Swap cranberries for dried cherries or blueberries for a different fruity twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat with a warm cup of spiced chai or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Serve them on a festive platter, garnished with fresh cranberries and mint leaves for a pop of color.
- For a delightful brunch, offer these bars alongside a fruit salad or yogurt parfait.
FAQs about Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat
Can I make these Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They actually taste even better after a day, as the flavors meld beautifully!
How do I store leftover bars?
To keep your Cranberry Bliss Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well!
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of white chocolate, feel free to swap in dark chocolate or even milk chocolate chips. Each variation brings a unique flavor to your Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat!
What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Both will give you a deliciously creamy frosting without compromising on taste!
Are these bars suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can enjoy these festive Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat without worry!
Final Thoughts
Making these Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of sharing these festive treats with family and friends is truly heartwarming. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of the holiday season. Whether you’re enjoying them with a warm cup of tea or gifting them to loved ones, these bars bring smiles all around. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the holiday spirit, and let these delicious bars become a cherished part of your family traditions. Happy baking!
Print
Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat That You’ll Love!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and festive cranberry bliss bars inspired by Starbucks, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars and cut into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Feel free to add nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg