Cranberry Bliss Bars
Jump to RecipeCranberry Bliss Bars are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Originating from coffee shops, these bars have quickly become a beloved dessert among those who crave a unique flavor experience. Featuring a moist base enriched with rich butter, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla, these bars are studded with chewy dried cranberries and creamy white chocolate chips. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting infused with zesty orange, each bite is a burst of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. In this article, we'll guide you through the simple steps to create your own Cranberry Bliss Bars at home, so you can impress your friends and family with this festive dessert that’s perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just as a sweet snack!
Ingredients
butter
Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of your recipe. If you're out of butter, you can substitute with an equal amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil, but the texture may be slightly different.
brown sugar
Brown sugar adds moisture and a rich flavor. You can substitute it with an equal amount of white sugar plus 1 tablespoon of molasses if you need a similar flavor.
granulated sugar
Granulated sugar is essential for sweetness and structure. If you prefer a less processed option, you can use cane sugar or coconut sugar, but be mindful that it may alter the texture slightly.
eggs
Eggs help bind the ingredients. If you're looking for a vegan option, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of silken tofu blended until smooth.
vanilla extract
Vanilla enhances the overall flavor. For a stronger vanilla flavor, consider using vanilla bean paste. If you don't have either, you can use almond extract but use it sparingly as it has a stronger flavor.
all-purpose flour
All-purpose flour is essential for structure. If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, but ensure it contains xanthan gum or add a bit to mimic the elasticity.
baking powder
Baking powder helps the bars rise. If you're out, you can make a substitute using 1/2 tsp of baking soda and 1 tsp of cream of tartar for every 1 tsp of baking powder needed.
salt
Salt enhances flavor. If you're watching your sodium intake, you can reduce the amount or use a low-sodium salt alternative.
dried cranberries
Dried cranberries provide tartness and sweetness. If you can't find them, you can substitute with raisins or chopped dried cherries for a different flavor.
white chocolate chips
White chocolate adds sweetness and creaminess. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use dark chocolate chips, but remember that this will change the flavor profile.
cream cheese
Cream cheese is key for the frosting. If you're looking for a lighter option, use Neufchâtel cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative, but the texture may differ.
powdered sugar
Powdered sugar is used for sweetness in frosting. If you need a sugar-free option, you can use powdered erythritol or another sugar substitute, but this may affect the texture.
orange zest
Orange zest adds a fresh citrus flavor. You can substitute it with lemon zest for a different citrus note, or use a splash of orange juice if you don't have fresh zest.
milk
Milk helps to achieve a smoother frosting. If you're dairy-free, you can use almond milk or oat milk, but adjust the amount slightly as these can be thinner than regular milk.
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial as a properly preheated oven ensures even baking.Step 2: Prepare the baking pan
Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the bars from sticking. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.Step 3: Cream the butter and sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, making the bars light and tender.Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla
Beat in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Mix until well combined, ensuring no streaks of egg remain. This adds moisture and flavor to the batter.Step 5: Mix dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This step is essential to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour.Step 6: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to dense bars.Step 7: Fold in cranberries and chocolate
Gently fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries and 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips using a spatula. This adds delicious bursts of flavor and texture to your bars.Step 8: Spread the batter
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. This ensures uniform baking.Step 9: Bake the bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.Step 10: Cool the bars
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.Step 11: Prepare the frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 oz of cream cheese, 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of orange zest, and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth and creamy. This frosting adds a delightful tangy sweetness to your bars.Step 12: Frost and cut the bars
Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares for serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I properly measure ingredients like flour and sugar?
To measure flour, spoon it into a measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. For brown sugar, pack it tightly into the cup before leveling. This ensures accurate measurements.
What does it mean to 'cream' butter and sugar?
Creaming is mixing butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter, helping your bars rise. Use an electric mixer for best results.
How can I tell when my bars are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it has wet batter on it, give them a few more minutes.
What should I do if my cream cheese is too cold and hard to mix?
Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using it. Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds to soften it.
How do I prevent my baked goods from sticking to the pan?
Greasing the pan with butter or cooking spray before adding the batter helps prevent sticking. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for extra protection.
What can I substitute for dried cranberries if I don't have any?
You can use raisins, chopped dried apricots, or even chocolate chips as a substitute. Just ensure to adjust the sweetness if necessary.
Is it necessary to let the bars cool completely before frosting?
Yes, letting the bars cool completely helps the frosting to set properly and prevents it from melting into the warm bars.
Can I use a different type of chocolate besides white chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer flavor.
How should I store leftover bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
What’s the best way to cut the bars into squares?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure neat squares. You can also score the bars lightly before cutting to guide your cuts.
Additional Information
Dietary Considerations
These bars contain gluten and dairy, but can be adapted for dietary preferences. To make them gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and a plant-based milk alternative. Ensure that the white chocolate chips are dairy-free as well, which are available in many stores.
Pairings
Cranberry Bliss Bars pair wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced chai or a glass of sweet iced tea, which complements the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of white chocolate. For a savory balance, consider serving them with a mild cheese plate featuring brie or cream cheese. For an adult beverage, a sparkling wine or Prosecco can enhance the festive feel of the bars, while a rich coffee can provide a nice contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cranberry Bliss Bars on a decorative platter, perhaps garnished with fresh cranberries and sprigs of mint for a pop of color. They can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled after frosting, making them perfect for gatherings. For special occasions, consider dusting the bars with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate on top for added visual appeal.
Cranberry Bliss Bars
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Description
Deliciously sweet and tangy bars filled with cranberries and topped with creamy frosting.
Ingredients
- butter: 1/2 cup
- brown sugar: 1 cup
- granulated sugar: 1/4 cup
- eggs: 2 large
- vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- all-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups
- baking powder: 1 tsp
- salt: 1/4 tsp
- dried cranberries: 1 cup
- white chocolate chips: 1/2 cup
- cream cheese: 8 oz
- powdered sugar: 1 cup
- orange zest: 1 tsp
- milk: 1 tbsp
Date Created:
11/22/2024