As the scent of baked treats wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but think of the joyous spirit of the holiday season. This year, I’m excited to share my homemade version of Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars—a delightful blend of chewy blondies, dried cranberries, and luscious white chocolate draped in zesty orange cream cheese frosting. Not only do these bars capture the festive essence beautifully, but they also offer a healthier, homemade alternative to a store-bought favorite. Perfect for sharing with friends and family or wrapping up as thoughtful gifts, these delicious treats are bound to become a beloved holiday staple in your home. Curious about how to whip up this delightful dessert? Let’s get baking! Why make homemade Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars? Irresistible Tartness: The dried cranberries add a delightful zing, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the white chocolate. Festive Flavors: Infused with zesty orange and warm ginger, this recipe brings holiday cheer in every bite. Easy Baking: Simple steps make these bars foolproof, even for beginners—everyone can enjoy homemade goodness! Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or a festive gift; they’re sure to impress at any holiday gathering. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With their chewy texture and creamy frosting, these bars are destined to become a favorite among family and friends. Looking for more festive inspiration? Don’t forget to check out the White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies or indulge in some tasty Key Lime Bars. Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create these delightful bars! For the Blondie Base Butter – Provides moisture and richness; margarine can be swapped for a dairy-free option. Packed Brown Sugar – Sweetness and depth; light brown sugar works for a milder taste. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bars; reduce for a less sugary delight. Eggs – Binds ingredients together and contributes to texture; try an egg substitute for a vegan option. Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; pure vanilla is best. Orange Oil/Extract – Adds a citrus note; fresh zest or juice brightens the flavor even more. Orange Zest – Gives vibrant color and freshness; more zest equals a stronger citrus kick. Ground Ginger – Introduces warmth and spice; omit for a milder flavor. Baking Powder – Helps bars rise, so ensure it’s fresh for best texture. Salt – Balances sweetness; can be left out if using salted butter. Flour – Provides structure; consider whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. White Chocolate Chips – Sweet and creamy bursts in each bite; dark chocolate can replace them for less sweetness. Dried Cranberries – Adds tartness and chewiness; substitute with raisins or dates if desired. For the Cream Cheese Frosting Cream Cheese – Base for frosting, providing creaminess; low-fat can be used but may alter texture. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust based on your preferred sweetness. Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; use pure for the best taste. Orange Zest – Brightens the frosting; lemon zest can swap in for variation. Chopped Dried Cranberries & White Chocolate Chips – For garnish and added texture; feel free to experiment with different dried fruits or nuts. Creating your version of Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars at home is sure to be a hit! Happy baking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a 9×13 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This will ensure easy removal of the cranberry bliss bars later! Set the pan aside as you get your ingredients ready. Step 2: Melt Butter and Combine Sugars In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup of butter until it’s just melted; remove it from heat. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated sugar, stirring until the sugars are mostly dissolved and the mixture looks smooth and glossy. Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Flavorings Next, add 3 large eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, whisking well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of orange oil, and the zest of one orange. Feel the rich aroma unfold as you mix in 1 teaspoon of ground ginger for an extra hint of warmth. Step 4: Blend in Dry Ingredients Now, sift in 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour into the wet ingredients. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula until just combined and smooth, being careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of your Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars. Step 5: Add Cranberries and White Chocolate Stir in 1 cup of dried cranberries and 1 cup of white chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The bright cranberries and creamy chocolate pieces will beautifully complement each other. Once incorporated, pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly into the corners with a spatula. Step 6: Bake the Bars Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 17-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for the edges to turn golden brown and the top to be just set and lightly browning. Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until fluffy and smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the zest of one orange, mixing until well blended. The frosting should be thick yet spreadable, perfect for creating a creamy layer over your cooled bars. Step 8: Frost the Bars and Add Toppings Once the cranberry bliss bars are completely cool, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Don’t be shy! After frosting, sprinkle with 1/4 cup of chopped dried cranberries and a drizzle of melted white chocolate for that festive touch. This adds both texture and visual appeal to your delicious creation. Step 9: Cut and Serve Let the frosting set for a few minutes before removing the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles as desired, unveiling the chewy, colorful layers inside. Serve your homemade Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars to family and friends, and bask in the praise that comes with these delightful treats! Expert Tips for Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Mind the Baking Time: Check for doneness at 17 minutes to keep the bars chewy. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely before frosting; this ensures a smooth, even layer that won’t melt into the bars. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and cream cheese are fresh for the best rise and flavor in your Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars. Accommodate Preferences: Feel free to customize! Add more cranberries for extra tartness or swap white chocolate with dark chocolate to suit your taste. Frosting Consistency: Opt for full-fat cream cheese in the frosting for a firmer texture; low-fat versions may not hold up as well. What to Serve with Chewy Cranberry Bliss Bars? Indulging in these festive treats is just the beginning; here’s how to create a delightful full meal experience. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: They provide a smooth, buttery contrast that balances the bars’ sweet and tangy flavors perfectly. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty, earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts makes an excellent savory pairing to cut the sweetness of the bars. Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, comforting aroma of spiced apple cider adds a delightful seasonal touch, complementing the cranberry flavors beautifully. Winter Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, candied walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a crunchy texture, enhancing the overall meal experience. Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: For a sophisticated treat, serve chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas for a lush contrast to the chewy bars. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy, smooth texture that perfectly harmonizes with the chewy cranberries and lush frosting. Strong Brewed Coffee: Pair the bliss bars with a robust cup of coffee; the bitterness cuts through sweetness, providing a balanced tasting experience. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, like brie or gouda, adds savory depth, making for an intriguing contrast to the cranberry bliss bars. Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced cookies lend an extra holiday flair and share the same warm spices, making them an ideal companion for these blissful bars. Variations & Substitutions for Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Feel free to get creative with these delightful bars—there’s room to make them your own! Add More Cranberries: Boost the tartness by increasing the amount of dried cranberries for a burst of flavor. Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and margarine for a fully dairy-free treat. Citrus Swap: Swap orange zest for lemon or lime zest in the frosting for a refreshing twist that brightens each bite. Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a heartier, healthier option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Spice It Up: Increase the ground ginger or add a touch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the cranberries. Chocolate Option: Substitute the white chocolate with dark chocolate chips for a less sweet, richer flavor, creating a beautiful contrast with the cranberries. Frosting Variations: Try mixing in a hint of crushed peppermint candy canes into the frosting for a festive holiday touch—perfect if you love a little holiday cheer! Explore and experiment to find the combinations that warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds! If you’re interested in more delightful treats, check out my recipe for White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies or my delightful Chocolate Chip Bars. Happy baking! How to Store and Freeze Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Room Temperature: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture. Fridge: For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge, where they will stay good for up to 7 days. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: Freeze these cranberry bliss bars in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Layer parchment paper between bars to prevent sticking. Reheating: To enjoy the bars warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving! They’re perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. Make Ahead Options These delightful Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the blondie base up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and spreading the batter into the pan. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Additionally, you can mix the cream cheese frosting ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days—just be sure to refrigerate it as well. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake the bars straight from the fridge, frost them, and they’ll taste just as delicious as if they were freshly made! Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe FAQs What type of dried cranberries should I use? Absolutely! I recommend using sweetened dried cranberries for the best balance of tartness and sweetness in your cranberry bliss bars. Look for cranberries that are plump and moist, steering clear of those with dark spots, as they may indicate they are too dried out. How should I store the bars after baking? You can store your cranberry bliss bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh longer, storing them in the refrigerator will extend their shelf-life to about 7 days. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent them from drying out! Can I freeze the cranberry bliss bars? Very! To freeze your Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars, allow them to cool completely first, then place them in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper between each bar to prevent sticking. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for about 10-15 seconds. What can I do if my bars are too crumbly? If your cranberry bliss bars turn out too crumbly, it might be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the batter. Ensure that you’re baking them for just the right amount of time—17-20 minutes is ideal. You can also try adding a bit more butter or a splash of orange juice next time to enhance moisture. Are these bars safe for people with nut allergies? Yes! This recipe is nut-free as long as you stick to standard ingredients. However, if you’re sharing the bars with guests who have allergies, be sure to check that all baking components, like chocolate chips and any garnishes, are labeled nut-free to avoid cross-contamination. Can I make these bars vegan? Absolutely! For a vegan version of Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars, you can replace the eggs with an appropriate egg substitute, such as flaxseed meal or applesauce. Additionally, opt for dairy-free butter and ensure that your white chocolate chips are dairy-free as well. Enjoy crafting a delicious, plant-based treat! Delicious Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars You Can Make at Home Homemade Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful blend of chewy blondies, dried cranberries, and luscious white chocolate, perfect for the holiday season. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Blondie Base1 cup butter Provides moisture and richness; margarine can be swapped for a dairy-free option.1 cup packed brown sugar Sweetness and depth; light brown sugar works for a milder taste.1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the bars; reduce for a less sugary delight.3 large eggs Binds ingredients together; try egg substitute for a vegan option.2 teaspoons vanilla extract Enhances flavor; pure vanilla is best.1 tablespoon orange oil/extract Adds a citrus note; fresh zest or juice brightens the flavor.1 tablespoon orange zest Gives vibrant color and freshness.1 teaspoon ground ginger Introduces warmth and spice.1 teaspoon baking powder Helps bars rise; ensure it's fresh.1/4 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness; can omit if using salted butter.2 cups flour Provides structure; consider whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.1 cup white chocolate chips Sweet and creamy bursts in each bite.1 cup dried cranberries Adds tartness and chewiness.For the Cream Cheese Frosting8 ounces cream cheese Base for frosting, providing creaminess.2 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens frosting.1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.1 tablespoon orange zest Brightens the frosting.1/4 cup chopped dried cranberries For garnish and added texture.1/4 cup white chocolate chips For garnish and added texture. Equipment 9x13-inch baking panMixing bowlsmedium saucepanspatula Method PreparationPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat, then remove from heat.In a large bowl, combine melted butter with packed brown sugar and granulated sugar, stirring until smooth.Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition, then stir in vanilla, orange oil, orange zest, and ginger.Sift baking powder, salt, and flour into the wet ingredients and fold gently until just combined.Stir in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.Bake for 17-20 minutes until edges are golden and tops are just set. Cool completely on a wire rack.Beat cream cheese until fluffy, then gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and orange zest.Spread cream cheese frosting over cooled bars, then sprinkle with chopped cranberries and drizzle with white chocolate.Cut into squares or rectangles and serve warm or at room temperature. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, in the fridge for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
