cranberry bliss bars starbucks
These delicious Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful treat inspired by the popular Starbucks version. They feature a rich cream cheese frosting, bright cranberries, and a hint of orange zest. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave something sweet!
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking pan
- 1 electric mixer or mixing bowl
- 1 rubber spatula
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 parchment paper
- 1 cooling rack
- 1 knife for cutting
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter Softened.
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- 8 oz cream cheese Softened.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter Softened.
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- Additional dried cranberries chopped (optional)
- Orange zest (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries and orange zest until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Lift out using the parchment paper and let cool completely on the cooling rack.
- For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
- Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Optional: Sprinkle additional chopped cranberries and orange zest on top for garnish.
- Cut into 12 bars and serve.
Notes
These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Feel free to adjust the amount of cranberries and orange zest to your taste preferences.