Cranberry Bliss Bars

Name: Cranberry Bliss Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup light brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup white chocolate chips; Zest of 1 orange

Published: August 31, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These cranberry bliss bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect last-minute dessert
The blend of sweet and tart flavors creates a delightful contrast that will leave everyone craving more
Their stunning appearance with vibrant cranberries and white chocolate makes them a showstopper on any dessert table
These bars are versatile enough to serve at holidays, parties, or just for an afternoon treat

I remember one holiday season when I accidentally made two batches of these cranberry bliss bars. My friends devoured them so quickly that I had to hide the second batch behind some very suspicious-looking vegetables in the fridge!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the flavor balance; it enhances all other ingredients beautifully.
Granulated Sugar: The sweet foundation for your bars; it helps create a beautiful texture when creamed with butter.
Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a rich depth of flavor; I prefer light brown sugar for its subtle caramel notes.
Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential; they bind everything together and add richness to the bars.
Vanilla Extract: Always opt for pure vanilla extract; it elevates the flavor profile significantly.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of your dessert; ensure it’s sifted for a lighter texture.
Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent; it keeps your bars fluffy and moist.
Dried Cranberries: Look for plump cranberries; they provide that delightful tartness we all love!
White Chocolate Chips: These melt beautifully and add creaminess; I recommend using high-quality chips for the best results.
Orange Zest: A delightful touch of brightness; fresh zest enhances the overall flavor immensely.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal later.

Cream Butter and Sugars: In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes should do it.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the vanilla extract to create a luscious batter.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined, don’t overmix!

Add Cranberries and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in dried cranberries, white chocolate chips, and orange zest until evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Spread the batter into your prepared pan evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Let these delightful cranberry bliss bars cool completely before slicing into squares. Trust me; patience is key here, the wait will be worth every scrumptious bite!

You Must Know

These Cranberry Bliss Bars are the perfect blend of sweet and tart
The rich cream cheese frosting elevates them to a treat you won’t forget
They’re great for holiday gatherings, but you’ll want them year-round
Each bite is a delightful experience that keeps you coming back for more

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping the ingredients: measure your flour, sugar, and cranberries first. Bake the bars until golden brown, then let them cool completely before frosting to avoid a melty mess.

Add Your Touch

For a twist, try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. You can also swap dried cranberries for cherries or raisins if you prefer a different fruit flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cranberry Bliss Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For best results, enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge or at room temperature.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh cranberries when possible; they add vibrant color and flavor
Don’t overmix your batter; it helps keep the bars moist and tender
Frost only when cooled fully to prevent sliding off

Making these bars always reminds me of my grandmother’s holiday baking marathons. The kitchen was filled with laughter, flour fights, and the sweet aroma of baked goodies that brought us together like nothing else could.