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Cranberry Bliss Bars

Delightful holiday bars combining tart cranberries, creamy frosting, and a hint of orange, perfect for gatherings and sweet indulgence.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baked Goods
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bars
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
For the Frosting
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (1/2 stick)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (for topping)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the orange juice. Mix until just combined.
  6. Fold in the dried cranberries and 1/2 cup white chocolate chips.
  7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
Frosting
  1. While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
  3. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
  4. Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
  5. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the frosting and immediately sprinkle with the remaining dried cranberries.
  6. Chill the bars for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting and chocolate to set before cutting and serving.

Notes

To keep your Cranberry Bliss Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 4-5 days. You can freeze the un-frosted bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil.