If you’ve ever indulged in one of those delightful Cranberry Bliss Bars from Starbucks, you know just how magical they can be! Think of a soft, chewy blondie packed with vibrant cranberries, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, and finished with a sprinkle of white chocolate—pure bliss in every bite! These bars have a texture that’s simultaneously chewy and creamy, creating an irresistible contrast that makes them perfect for any family gathering or cozy night in. Fun fact: these treats have garnered a bit of a cult following, and for good reason! They’re easy to whip up at home, allowing you to bring that café vibe right into your kitchen. If you loved my other recipes like the Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies, then you’re going to be head over heels for these cranberry bars!
What are Classic Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars?
So what’s the deal with the fun name “Cranberry Bliss Bars”? Are they named for their flavor or their blissful effect? You’d probably say both! These delicious bars stand as a testament to the age-old saying that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” I mean, who wouldn’t fall in love with a sweet treat that combines creamy frosting, tart cranberries, and the richness of white chocolate? Picture cozy evenings where family gathers ’round to enjoy these beautiful squares—a slice of heaven, really! If you’re ready to tackle this easy adventure, grab your apron, and let’s dive into making a batch that’s bound to impress everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Classic Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars
First off, these Cranberry Bliss Bars are undeniably the star of any dessert table! They blend a buttery blondie base with the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of white chocolate, resulting in a unique flavor that dances on your palate. Plus, with homemade recipes, you not only save money compared to those coffee shop treats, but you also control the ingredients—ensuring they are Halal and tailored to your taste preferences. If you love a comforting dessert like a classic brownies recipe, these bars will sweep you off your feet just the same. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your mixing bowl and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Classic Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars
Quick Overview
Making these bars is not only easy but incredibly satisfying! The preparation time is about 30 minutes, followed by baking time, making it an ideal treat for unexpected guests. Imagine the inviting scent wafting through your home as they bake—an experience in itself! With their chewy texture and creamy frosting, they are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
Key Ingredients for Classic Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Halal)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries (roughly chopped)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Halal)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy and light. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
- Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in Cranberries and Chocolate: Carefully fold in the chopped dried cranberries and white chocolate chips into the batter using a spatula.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Make the Frosting: While the bars bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until creamy.
- Cool and Frost: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the bars.
- Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and serve these delightful treats at your next family gathering!
Top Tips for Perfecting Classic Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Substitutions: If you need to adapt for dietary preferences, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure to use Halal-friendly options for all ingredients.
- Timing: Don’t overbake! A slight underbake (if the toothpick is clean but still slightly moist) keeps the bars soft and chewy—just the way we like them!
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Ensure the ingredients are at room temperature before starting, especially the butter and cream cheese, to achieve the smoothest texture possible.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Classic Cranberry Bliss Bars store beautifully! You can refrigerate them for up to a week, keeping them in an airtight container. For long-term storage, freeze them for up to three months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. To enjoy again, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. This way, they’ll taste as fresh as the day you made them!
Now that you have everything you need to whip up classic Starbucks copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars, don’t wait—surprise your family with these mouthwatering delights today! Happy baking!
Classic Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) Ensure butter is at room temperature.
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Halal)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free blend.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries (roughly chopped)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened) Ensure cheese is at room temperature.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Halal)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy and light. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Carefully fold in the chopped dried cranberries and white chocolate chips into the batter.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Frosting and Serving
- While the bars bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until creamy.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the bars.
- Cut into squares and serve the delightful treats at your family gathering.
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