The holidays are a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing laughter, and indulging in delicious treats. And what better way to celebrate than with a batch of these irresistible Cranberry Bliss Bars? These aren’t your average cranberry bars; they’re a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. Imagine a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust, layered with a tangy-sweet cranberry filling bursting with juicy cranberries and a hint of citrus, all topped with a luxuriously creamy cream cheese frosting. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for both experienced and beginner bakers alike. Get ready to experience the ultimate cranberry bliss!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe
There are so many reasons why this Cranberry Bliss Bars recipe will become your new go-to holiday dessert. First and foremost, the flavor combination is simply divine. The tartness of the cranberries is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the sugar and the subtle zest of orange. The cream cheese topping adds a delightful creamy richness that complements the other flavors beautifully. It’s a harmonious blend of sweet and tart, creamy and crumbly that truly elevates the bar experience. The texture is another winning element. The buttery, shortbread crust provides a delightful contrast to the soft cranberry filling and the smooth cream cheese frosting. Every bite is a delightful surprise of textures that keeps you coming back for more. And let’s not forget the presentation! These bars look incredibly elegant and festive, making them perfect for any holiday gathering. They’re easily adaptable too – want to add chopped pecans or walnuts? Go for it! Fancy a different citrus zest? Experiment and discover your favorite combination. They’re easily transportable too, meaning you can take them to any party or gathering without the worry of them falling apart.
Beyond the deliciousness and ease of making, these Cranberry Bliss Bars offer a sense of nostalgia and homemade goodness, a welcome alternative to store-bought treats. The aroma alone while baking is enough to get anyone in the holiday spirit! They’re also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the sweetness to your preference, make them in a mini muffin tin for individual portions, or even add a sprinkle of festive sprinkles on top for an extra touch of holiday cheer. This recipe will help you create memories of delicious treats, and it’s a fantastic way to showcase your baking skills, without all the fuss. So, are you ready to experience the ultimate Cranberry Bliss?
Why You Should Try This Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe
In a world filled with countless dessert options, this Cranberry Bliss Bars recipe stands out for its unique combination of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation. The recipe itself is incredibly user-friendly, perfect for both experienced bakers and those just starting their culinary journey. The detailed instructions, coupled with helpful tips, guarantee a successful baking experience, leaving you with a beautiful and delicious treat to be proud of. The ingredients are readily available in most grocery stores, ensuring that you won’t have to search high and low for specific, hard-to-find items. This makes it a truly accessible recipe, allowing anyone to recreate the magic of Cranberry Bliss Bars in their own kitchen. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both impressive and achievable, this is it. Imagine the compliments you’ll receive when you present these exquisite bars to your friends and family; the proud feeling you’ll get serving something so delicious and easy to make.
Moreover, this recipe transcends the ordinary, becoming a perfect vehicle for creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Baking these bars can become a cherished family tradition, a shared experience that binds people together. The joy of making something delicious and gifting it to others is unmatched. In addition, these Cranberry Bliss Bars represent a balance between indulgence and health. While they are undeniably delicious and rich, they can be adjusted to fit various dietary needs, as we’ll explore in the variations section below. With its perfect balance of taste, convenience, and ability to be adapted to different needs, this Cranberry Bliss Bars recipe is truly a must-try.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Cranberry Bliss Bars
This section provides a detailed list of the ingredients and tools needed to bake perfect Cranberry Bliss Bars. Precise measurements are crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (consider gluten-free blend for variations)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for sweetness and tender crumb)
- ½ teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes (cold butter is key for flakiness)
- For the Cranberry Filling:
- 1 (14-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce (provides tartness and texture)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (balances cranberry tartness)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (adds a bright citrusy note)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances overall flavor)
- For the Cream Cheese Topping:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (room temperature is essential for smooth frosting)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (adds creaminess and flavor)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sweetens the topping)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (complements other flavors)
Necessary Utensils:
- 9×13 inch baking pan (standard size for even baking)
- Measuring cups and spoons (for precise ingredient measurements)
- Mixing bowls (at least two, one for the crust and one for the filling)
- Pastry blender or fork (for cutting butter into flour)
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon (for mixing ingredients)
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer, for the cream cheese frosting)
- Parchment paper (for easy cleanup and prevents sticking)
- Baking sheet (for even baking)
- Cooling rack (for cooling the bars)
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter (for cutting the bars into squares)
Detailed Recipe Steps for Cranberry Bliss Bars
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create delicious Cranberry Bliss Bars. Remember to read through the entire recipe before you begin!
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined to prevent pockets of flour or sugar.
- Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. **Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting.** You want small, pea-sized pieces of butter throughout the mixture.
- Press the crumb mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands to compact the mixture and create an even base.
Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, granulated sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the cranberry filling evenly over the prepared crust. Spread it out carefully to ensure an even layer.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown and the filling is bubbly. **Keep a close eye on your bars**, as ovens can vary.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures that the bars set properly.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping
- While the bars are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. **Ensure both ingredients are at room temperature for optimal creaminess.**
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
Step 5: Frost and Chill
- Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. You can use a spatula or a knife to spread the frosting smoothly and evenly over the surface of the bars.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set. This will prevent the bars from being messy and will make it much easier to cut into them.
- Once chilled, cut the bars into squares and serve. Store any leftover Cranberry Bliss Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips and Variations for Cranberry Bliss Bars
Here are some tips and variations to make your Cranberry Bliss Bars even more special:
- For a richer crust: Use a combination of all-purpose flour and almond flour.
- Add nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the crust for added texture and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry filling for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
- Citrus variations: Experiment with lemon zest or a combination of orange and lemon zest.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend is designed for baking to maintain the desired texture.
- Vegan option: Replace butter with vegan butter and cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative. This may require some experimentation to ensure the desired texture.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the crust and filling a day ahead of time. Assemble and bake the bars just before serving, frosting at the end.
- Avoid common mistakes: Don’t overbake the crust, as it can become dry. Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for the frosting to ensure a smooth texture. Let the bars cool completely before frosting.
Nutritional Values and Benefits of Cranberry Bliss Bars
While these Cranberry Bliss Bars are undeniably indulgent, let’s examine the nutritional aspects and potential health benefits. Note that precise nutritional values depend on the specific ingredients used. These are estimates and may vary. A single bar (assuming 12 servings) will likely contain approximately:
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 3-4g
- Fat: 18-20g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
The benefits primarily stem from the ingredients:
- Cranberries: Excellent source of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage. Also contain vitamin C and fiber.
- Cream Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
- Butter: Offers fat-soluble vitamins. However, moderation is key due to its high fat content.
It’s important to remember that this is a treat, and moderation is key. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.
FAQs
Can I freeze Cranberry Bliss Bars?
What can I substitute for cranberry sauce?
How long do Cranberry Bliss Bars last?
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Conclusion
These Cranberry Bliss Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. From the delightful crunch of the buttery crust to the tangy burst of cranberries and the creamy indulgence of the cream cheese frosting, every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures. The detailed instructions and helpful tips in this recipe ensure a successful baking experience, no matter your skill level. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, sharing them with friends, or simply enjoying them as a delightful treat, these bars are sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your baking creations with us on social media! Tag us and use #CranberryBlissBars so we can see your amazing work. We’d love to see how yours turn out! And please, leave a comment below and let us know what you think. Happy baking!
For more delicious holiday recipes, check out our Roasted Pumpkin Seeds with Cinnamon Sugar or our Halloween Dirt Cups!
Cranberry Bliss Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bars out later.
- Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crust evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Make the cranberry filling: In a medium bowl, combine cranberry sauce, granulated sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Spread the cranberry filling evenly over the baked crust.
- Make the cream cheese topping: In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the cranberry filling.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden and set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
