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cranberry bliss bars starbucks

Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful treat inspired by the popular Starbucks version. These bars have a rich cream cheese frosting, dried cranberries, and a hint of orange zest, making them perfect for festive gatherings all year round.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking pan
  • multiple mixing bowls
  • 1 electric mixer optional
  • 1 rubber spatula
  • 1 set measuring cups
  • 1 set measuring spoons
  • 1 parchment paper optional

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup chopped dried cranberries for garnish
  • Zest of 1/2 orange for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the baking pan with parchment paper for easier removal.
  • In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined.
  • Fold in the dried cranberries and orange zest gently using a rubber spatula.
  • 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. Allow bars to cool completely in the pan.
  • While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well until fully combined, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
  • Garnish with chopped dried cranberries and orange zest. Cut into 12 bars and enjoy!

Notes

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
You can add chopped white chocolate or nuts for extra texture and flavor. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of powdered sugar to your taste.