cranberry bliss bar recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cranberry bliss bar recipe

I’ve been making these cranberry bliss bars for years, and they’re always a hit with my family and friends. The recipe comes from my sister-in-law, who got it from a friend who worked at a bakery.

I love the combination of tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate, and the texture is perfect – crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside. My kids can’t get enough of them, and I have to make a double batch every time I make them.

I take them to all our family gatherings and potlucks, and they’re always the first to go. The best part is that they’re relatively easy to make and require only a few ingredients, so even on busy days I can whip up a batch in no time.

Plus, they’re perfect for snacking on the go or as a healthy-ish dessert option for my kids’ school lunches. As an added bonus, the cranberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this treat feel a little less guilty than some other desserts.

Overall, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Cranberry Bliss Bars

4.5 from 818 votes

These cranberry bliss bars feature a soft and buttery shortbread crust topped with a creamy white chocolate layer, tart dried cranberries, and a sweet drizzle of white chocolate. They are a festive and delicious treat perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a sweet and tangy dessert.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 16Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup white chocolate chips for drizzling

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
3In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
4Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
5Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
6Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden brown.
7Remove from the oven and let cool slightly on a wire rack.
8In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk and 1/2 cup white chocolate chips.
9Stir constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth, about 3 to 4 minutes.
10Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and dried cranberries.
11Pour the cranberry mixture over the warm shortbread crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
12Let cool completely at room temperature, about 30 minutes.
13In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the remaining 1/2 cup white chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
14Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cooled bars using a fork or a piping bag.
15Refrigerate the bars for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
16Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.
17Serve chilled or at room temperature.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Spatula
Small saucepan
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 80mg🌾Total Carbs: 36g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 24g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

For a more intense cranberry flavor, you can soak the dried cranberries in warm water for 10 minutes before using. Ensure the bars are fully chilled before cutting for clean edges.

Watch Video Of How Cranberry Bliss Bars Works

These cranberry bliss bars are always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or just a quick snack on-the-go.

They’re easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them perfect for busy days when time is scarce.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – with antioxidants from the cranberries and vitamins from the oats, these bars feel relatively guilt-free compared to other desserts.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Bliss Bars

Q: What’s the best way to store these bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Q: Can I use fresh or frozen cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, you can use either fresh or frozen cranberries, but be sure to thaw them first if using frozen. Keep in mind that fresh cranberries will add more moisture to the bars than dried cranberries.

Q: Can I substitute other types of nuts or seeds for the walnuts?

Yes, you can use other types of nuts like almonds or pecans, or seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

Q: How do I know if these bars are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden brown and the center should be set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free oats for regular oats and ensure that your chocolate chips are gluten-free as well.

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