Perfect Homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars: The Ultimate Starbucks Copycat Recipe
Ah, Cranberry Bliss Bars. These delightful treats once captivated the hearts of many, becoming an iconic seasonal offering at Starbucks. Their unique combination of tart cranberries, sweet white chocolate, and a zesty orange-infused cream cheese frosting made them an instant hit. However, as many enthusiasts can attest, the quality of store-bought versions could be a bit inconsistent – sometimes they were wonderfully fresh and soft, while other times, disappointingly dry. This common variability led many home bakers, including myself, on a quest to perfect a homemade “Starbucks copycat” recipe. The good news? You no longer have to rely on chance. With this meticulously crafted recipe, you can create your own batch of Cranberry Bliss Bars that are guaranteed fresh, moist, and utterly delicious every single time.
What truly sets a great Cranberry Bliss Bar apart is its vibrant flavor profile, largely driven by the bright notes of orange and the warming hint of ginger. While some recipes might call for orange extract, I’ve personally found that a combination of classic vanilla extract and fresh orange zest yields a more authentic and nuanced citrus aroma. The zest provides not just flavor, but also beautiful flecks of color that enhance its visual appeal. If fresh oranges aren’t readily available, a few drops of high-quality orange oil, such as Boyajian orange oil, can be an excellent substitute, offering a remarkably natural orange essence without being artificial. For an added layer of texture and a bolder ginger kick, I sometimes like to incorporate finely chopped crystallized ginger into the dough or as part of the topping. This tiny addition elevates the “bliss” factor, adding a delightful chewiness and a gentle warmth that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Achieving Perfect Thickness: Choosing the Right Pan Size for Your Cranberry Bliss Bars
One of the most crucial elements in replicating the iconic Cranberry Bliss Bar texture is selecting the correct baking pan size. While many bar cookie recipes might default to a 9×13 inch pan, I strongly advise against using it for this particular recipe if you want to achieve the authentic Starbucks thickness. A 9×13 inch pan will result in bars that are simply too thick, altering both the baking time and the desired cookie-like texture. Instead, aim for a 15×10 inch pan (also known as a jelly roll pan) or something very close to it. This size ensures your bars bake evenly to the ideal thickness, resulting in that perfect balance of a slightly firm base and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
If you’re looking to make a smaller batch, perhaps for a less crowded gathering or just a treat for yourself, a 9-inch square pan works beautifully for halving the recipe. When using a smaller pan, just remember to reduce the baking time slightly, as the bars will be a bit thinner than those made in a jelly roll pan and will cook faster. It’s always best to keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as oven temperatures can vary. Regardless of the pan size, lining it with parchment paper is a non-negotiable step. This simple trick ensures easy removal of your perfectly baked Cranberry Bliss Bars from the pan, making cleanup a breeze and preserving their pristine appearance.
Expert Tips for Baking and Storing Your Homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars
Baking homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars is a rewarding experience, and with a few key tips, you can ensure your batch turns out absolutely perfect. These bars are distinct from a cake; they possess a delightful texture more akin to a sugar cookie bar. This means they might feel a little dry immediately after baking. Don’t fret! They will soften beautifully once frosted, absorbing moisture from the rich cream cheese topping. To further enhance their texture and allow the flavors to meld, I highly recommend storing them in a sealed, airtight container for a few hours (or even overnight) before serving. This brief resting period works wonders, transforming them into a wonderfully tender and cohesive treat that rivals any bakery creation.
Avoiding the Dreaded Overbake
Overbaking is the enemy of a moist and tender bar cookie. Keep a vigilant eye on your Cranberry Bliss Bars as they bake. You’re looking for edges that are lightly golden brown, and when a skewer or toothpick is inserted into the center, it should come out mostly clean with perhaps a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter. Remember, residual heat will continue to cook the bars slightly even after they’re removed from the oven, so pulling them out just a minute or two before you think they’re “done” can make all the difference between a perfectly soft bar and a dry, crumbly one. The goal is a tender, chewy bar, not a crisp cookie.
Achieving the Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting
The luscious cream cheese frosting is undoubtedly a highlight of these Cranberry Bliss Bars. To get that perfectly smooth and fluffy consistency, ensure both your cream cheese and butter are thoroughly softened to room temperature. This will prevent lumps and make it much easier to beat into a light, airy frosting. Start by beating the cream cheese and butter together until completely smooth before gradually adding the confectioners’ sugar and extracts. This order helps create a stable and wonderfully spreadable frosting that complements the bars without being overly sweet.
Crafting the Signature Topping
The topping is what gives these bars their distinctive “bliss” appearance and an extra burst of flavor. Don’t skip chopping the dried cranberries (Craisins) for the garnish; smaller pieces distribute better and provide a more pleasant texture. Similarly, grating fresh orange rind with a microplane zester ensures fine, fragrant zest that won’t overwhelm. For the iconic white chocolate drizzle, melting it carefully is key. A double-boiler method can prevent scorching, but microwaving at 50% power in short intervals, stirring thoroughly between each, works just as well. The vegetable oil helps achieve that perfect drizzly consistency. Use a fork to create thin, elegant diagonal lines, mimicking the Starbucks style.
Storage and Freezing for Future Enjoyment
Once frosted, these Cranberry Bliss Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer preservation, freezing is an excellent option. To freeze your frosted bars effectively, first place them uncovered on a baking sheet in the freezer until the frosting is completely solid – this usually takes about an hour or two. This step is crucial as it prevents the frosting from sticking to any wrapping material. Once frozen solid, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months without a loss in quality. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. This ensures they retain their wonderful texture and flavor, ready to delight whenever a craving strikes.
Other Delicious Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Small Batch Cranberry Bliss Bars Copycats
- Cranberry Bliss Cookies
- Caramel Bliss Scones
- Starbucks VIA Double Chocolate Cookies
- Starbucks Banana Bread Copycat
Recipe: Cranberry Bliss Bar Clone #1
Cranberry Bliss Bar Clone #1
Anna
Pin Recipe
10 minutes
24 minutes
34 minutes
Dessert
American
24
Ingredients
-
2
sticks
salted butter (add ¾ teaspoon of salt if using unsalted)
(230 grams) -
1
cup
brown sugar
(210 grams) -
⅓
cup
granulated sugar
(65 grams) -
2
teaspoons
orange zest -
3
large
eggs -
2
teaspoons
vanilla extract -
2
cups
flour
(260 grams) -
1 ½
teaspoons
baking powder -
1
teaspoon
ground ginger -
¾
cup
dried cranberries -
¾
cup
white chocolate chips
FROSTING
-
4
oz
softened cream cheese
(114 grams) -
3
tablespoons
unsalted butter, softened
(42 grams) -
1 ¾
cups
confectioners’ sugar
(210 grams) -
1
teaspoon
vanilla extract or ¾ teaspoon vanilla and ¼ teaspoon orange extract
TOPPING
-
⅓
cup
craisins
chopped -
1-2
tablespoon
grated orange rind -
⅓
cup
white chocolate chips -
½
teaspoon
vegetable oil
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a 15×10 inch metal pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. This will make removing the baked bars much simpler.
-
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and creamy. This typically takes 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and fresh orange zest, continuing to beat until everything is well combined and smooth. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
-
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt (if you opted for unsalted butter), and ground ginger. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet sugar mixture, stirring on low speed until just combined to form a soft dough. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough bars. Finally, gently fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
-
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared 15×10 inch pan. You might find it easiest to press the dough into place with lightly floured hands or a greased spatula, ensuring it reaches all corners. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 23-24 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out with minimal moist crumbs. Do not overbake! Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting – patience here is key to a perfect frosting.
-
**For the Frosting:** In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light, smooth, and fluffy. This should take about 2 minutes. Add the vanilla extract (or the specified vanilla and orange extract blend) and gradually incorporate the confectioners’ sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and easily spreadable. Spread this delicious frosting evenly over the completely cooled Cranberry Bliss Bars.
-
**For the Garnish:** Finely chop the ⅓ cup of Craisins to ensure even distribution and a pleasant texture. Use a microplane zester or a fine grater to remove the orange rind from a fresh orange, aiming for 1-2 tablespoons of zest. Evenly sprinkle this vibrant garnish of chopped Craisins and fresh orange zest over the frosted bars. This not only adds beautiful color but also boosts the fruity and citrusy flavors, giving them that signature “bliss” taste.
-
**For the White Chocolate Drizzle:** In a small, microwave-safe glass measuring cup or bowl, combine the ⅓ cup white chocolate chips and ½ teaspoon vegetable oil. Microwave on 50% power for 1 minute; then stir well with a spoon. Repeat microwaving for another 1 minute at 50% power, then stir again until smooth and completely melted. If needed, microwave in 15-second intervals at 50% power until fully melted and drizzly. Using a fork or a small spoon, drizzle the melted white chocolate in thin diagonal strips across the top of the garnished bars. This iconic diagonal pattern adds a professional finish and another layer of sweetness.
-
Allow the white chocolate drizzle to set completely at room temperature for at least one hour (or briefly in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to speed things up) before cutting. Once set, carefully cut the large bar into individual “Starbucks-signature” triangles. To achieve this, cut the 15×10 inch pan of bars into 20 large squares first, then cut each square diagonally in half to form triangles. Alternatively, you can simply cut them into desired bar shapes or squares. Enjoy your perfectly crafted, homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars!
Cranberry Bliss Bars
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!
Serving and Enjoying Your Homemade Bliss
These homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars are perfect for a variety of occasions, making them incredibly versatile. They truly shine as a festive treat during the holiday season, with their cheerful colors and warming spices, but honestly, they’re so good you’ll want to make them year-round. Imagine enjoying them on a cool autumn evening or bringing a batch to a summer potluck! They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, making for an elevated morning or afternoon pick-me-up, a soothing mug of tea, or even a refreshing glass of cold milk. Serve them at brunches, birthday parties, or simply enjoy them as a delightful snack during your afternoon coffee break.
The vibrant colors of the juicy dried cranberries and bright orange zest, set against the creamy white frosting and delicate white chocolate drizzle, make them visually appealing. This artistic touch adds a hint of elegance to any dessert spread, making them a centerpiece conversation starter. Beyond the simple act of baking, there’s a unique satisfaction that comes from creating a beloved treat like the Cranberry Bliss Bar from scratch. You control the quality of ingredients, ensuring the freshest flavors and the most tender texture that you just can’t always get from store-bought versions. Plus, there’s an undeniable joy and pride in sharing something so delicious and personal with friends and family. This recipe is meticulously designed to bring that Starbucks favorite right into your kitchen, elevated by the care and quality of homemade goodness. Don’t be surprised if these become a highly requested item in your household, with everyone asking for “your famous Cranberry Bliss Bars!”
We hope you thoroughly enjoy making and sharing this ultimate Starbucks copycat Cranberry Bliss Bar recipe. It’s truly a little piece of bliss you can create right in your own kitchen, bringing warmth and joy with every bite. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with delightful aromas!