The aroma of fresh Cranberry Bliss Bars fills the kitchen, whisking you away to cozy holiday gatherings. Having tested this recipe repeatedly, I can share firsthand the delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors along with rich textures. These bars are a perfect addition to any dessert table, and the process has revealed many unexpected discoveries along the way. If you love seasonal treats, check out my Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies!
About Cranberry Bliss Bars
Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful treat that beautifully combines comforting flavors and festive flair. Through my many attempts, each test has revealed a little more about balancing the sweetness with the tart cranberries. They’re perfect not only for holiday celebrations but also for cozy afternoons at home. These bars are budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and make a wonderful surprise for friends and family.
- Perfect for potlucks and holiday parties
- Bank account-friendly with accessible ingredients
- Family favorite that evokes warm memories
- Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, adding a healthful twist
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Cranberries: provide tart flavor; substitute with dried cherries for variation.
- Brown Sugar: adds depth and moisture; can use coconut sugar for a different twist.
- Cream Cheese: ensures creaminess in frosting; a vegan cream cheese works as a great alternative.
- Almonds: add crunch; swap for pecans or walnuts for unique texture.
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish. The anticipation of baking fills the room with warmth.
- In a large bowl, mix together the butter and sugars until softened. The sound of creaming them together is a lovely start.
- Add the eggs, vanilla, and stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined but don’t overmix.
- Fold in the cranberries and almonds. Spread the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden around the edges.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- I found that chilling the batter for a short while before baking helps develop a richer flavor.
- Ensure not to overbake; check with a toothpick as the center may still look slightly soft—this is ideal!
- Feel free to experiment; substituting different nuts or using a mix of dried fruits keeps it interesting.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Store Cranberry Bliss Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—perfect for keeping a stash for unexpected guests. I’ve discovered that the flavors deepen in the fridge, making them even more delightful a day later.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. Pair them with my Slow Cooker Beef Stew for a comforting meal, or enjoy them as a light dessert after my Vegetarian Lasagna.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Cranberry Bliss Bars? A delicious blend of cranberry and cream cheese atop a sweet, rich base.
- Can I customize the nuts in Cranberry Bliss Bars? Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorites like pecans or walnuts.
- How long do these bars last? They stay fresh in the fridge for about 5 days or freeze well for up to 3 months.
- Do I need to chill the bars before cutting? Chilling them for a bit makes slicing easier and helps flavors meld.
- Can I make these bars gluten-free? Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend to keep the texture while making it gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry Bliss Bars bring cheer and sweetness that’s perfect for any occasion. I love enjoying them with family and friends, and I invite you to share your baking adventures and results. Let the flavors inspire you to create your own memories!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast – complements the festive flavor profile
- Cranberry Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Brie – connection via cranberry ingredient
- Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies – seasonal pairing for holiday gatherings
Cranberry Bliss Bars
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 0.5 cup chopped almonds
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the butter and sugars until softened.
- Add the eggs and vanilla, and stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Fold in the cranberries and almonds, then spread the batter into the prepared dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden around the edges.
- For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars and cut into squares.