If you’re a fan of Starbucks’ famous Cranberry Bliss Bars, you’re in for a treat! These delicious blondie-based bars are loaded with white chocolate, dried cranberries, and topped with a creamy frosting and more cranberry goodness. The best part? You can make them at home with simple ingredients and enjoy them fresh from your own kitchen.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step recipe for Homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars, along with tips, variations, and storage instructions. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Just like Starbucks – A perfect copycat version of the famous dessert.
✔ Easy to make – No fancy techniques required!
✔ Perfect for holidays – Great for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any festive occasion.
✔ Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Blondie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¼ cups light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- ½ cup white chocolate, melted (for drizzling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
Step 2: Make the Blondie Batter
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips, cranberries, and orange zest (if using).
Step 3: Bake the Blondies
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the blondies cool completely before frosting.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled blondies.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
- Sprinkle the chopped dried cranberries over the frosting.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate in zigzag lines over the top.
Step 6: Chill & Slice
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the frosting.
- Slice into triangles or squares (just like Starbucks!) before serving.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Bliss Bars
🔹 Room-temperature ingredients – Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are softened for a smooth batter and frosting.
🔹 Don’t overbake – The blondies should be slightly soft in the center for a chewy texture.
🔹 Customize the mix-ins – Try adding pecans, walnuts, or even dark chocolate chips.
🔹 Use a sharp knife – For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual bars and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy with coffee, tea, or as a sweet holiday dessert!
Final Thoughts
These Homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy—just like the Starbucks version, but even better because they’re made with love in your own kitchen! Whether you’re baking them for a party, a gift, or just because, they’re sure to be a hit.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy baking! 🎄🍫🍒