Introduction to The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars | Starbucks Copycat Recipe
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delicious. That’s why I’m excited to share my take on The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars, a delightful Starbucks copycat recipe that’s sure to impress your loved ones. These bars are not just a treat; they’re a quick solution for those hectic days when you crave something sweet yet satisfying. With a rich cream cheese frosting and a burst of cranberries, they’re perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy family nights at home.
Why You’ll Love This The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars | Starbucks Copycat Recipe
These bars are a game-changer for busy days! They come together in just 40 minutes, making them a quick and easy dessert option. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, the creamy frosting adds a luxurious touch, turning a simple treat into something special. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation!
Ingredients for The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars | Starbucks Copycat Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful bars. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of your bars, providing structure and a soft texture.
- Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the bars rise, giving them a light and fluffy feel.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter adds richness and moisture, making the bars tender.
- Brown sugar: This adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with cranberries.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together while adding moisture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Dried cranberries: These little gems provide tartness and a chewy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy frosting.
- White chocolate chips: Sweet and creamy, they add a delightful richness that complements the cranberries.
- Chopped pecans (optional): For a nutty crunch, these can be added or substituted with walnuts or almonds.
- Cream cheese: The star of the frosting, it gives a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
- Powdered sugar: This sweetens the frosting and helps achieve that smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Vanilla extract (for frosting): A touch of vanilla in the frosting enhances its flavor.
- Dried cranberries (for topping): These add a pop of color and extra tartness on top of the frosting.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with substitutions based on what you have on hand!
How to Make The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars | Starbucks Copycat Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, grease a 9×9 inch baking pan. A well-prepared pan helps the bars release easily after baking, so don’t skip this part!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well mixed. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking powder, ensuring your bars rise beautifully. Set this bowl aside for now; we’ll come back to it shortly.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The fluffiness is key; it adds air to the batter, making your bars tender and delicious!
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, add in the large egg and vanilla extract to your butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The egg acts as a binder, while the vanilla adds a warm, inviting flavor. Trust me, this combination is what makes these bars so irresistible!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring the wet and dry ingredients together. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine them just until you see no more flour. Overmixing can lead to tough bars, and we definitely want them soft and chewy!
Step 6: Fold in Add-ins
Gently fold in the dried cranberries, white chocolate chips, and chopped pecans (if you’re using them). Use a spatula to carefully incorporate these goodies into the batter. This step is where the magic happens, as the flavors meld together, creating that signature taste of The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars.
Step 7: Bake the Bars
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different! You want them to be golden brown but not overbaked.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
While the bars are cooling, it’s time to whip up the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This frosting is the cherry on top, adding a creamy, tangy finish that perfectly complements the sweetness of the bars.
Step 9: Frost and Serve
Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top. For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle additional dried cranberries over the frosting. Cut into squares, and voilà! You have a stunning dessert that’s ready to impress your family and friends.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming with sugar.
- Use a light hand when mixing to keep the bars tender.
- Let the bars cool completely before frosting for a neat finish.
- Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits for a unique twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Equipment Needed
- 9×9 inch baking pan (or an 8×8 inch pan for thicker bars)
- Mixing bowls (a large and a medium will do)
- Electric mixer (a whisk works too, but it’ll take longer)
- Spatula (for folding in ingredients)
- Measuring cups and spoons (essential for accuracy)
Variations of The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars | Starbucks Copycat Recipe
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Vegan Twist: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter and cream cheese.
- Fruit Variations: Swap dried cranberries for dried cherries or apricots for a different flavor profile.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions for The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars | Starbucks Copycat Recipe
- Pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- Present on a festive platter for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
FAQs about The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars | Starbucks Copycat Recipe
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making them even more delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for about 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?
While fresh cranberries are delicious, they’re quite tart. If you want to use them, consider adding a bit more sugar to balance the flavors. Dried cranberries work best for this recipe, giving that chewy texture we love.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese. Both will give you a creamy texture, but the flavor will differ slightly. Just keep in mind that the tanginess of cream cheese is part of what makes this frosting special!
Can I add more toppings to the bars?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of chocolate can elevate these bars even further. Just remember to keep the balance of flavors in mind!
Final Thoughts
Making The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating moments of joy. The delightful blend of tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate, topped with creamy frosting, brings a smile to everyone’s face. Whether you’re sharing them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon, these bars are sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. I hope you find as much happiness in making and sharing these treats as I do. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
The Very Best Cranberry Bliss Bars: A Must-Try Recipe!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious copycat recipe for Starbucks’ famous Cranberry Bliss Bars, featuring a rich cream cheese frosting and a delightful blend of cranberries and white chocolate.
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, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries, white chocolate chips, and pecans (if using).
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the bars are baking, prepare the frosting by beating together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the bars are cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting on top and sprinkle with additional dried cranberries.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Feel free to substitute cranberries with other dried fruits if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg