I’ve always loved the way Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars combine sweet cranberries with creamy white chocolate. There’s something truly delightful about each bite that makes them a favorite for snack time or a quick treat.
But sometimes, finding them in stores can be a challenge, or you might just want to recreate that magic at home. That’s why I decided to develop a copycat recipe that’s both easy to make and just as delicious. With a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy these scrumptious bars whenever you crave a burst of cranberry bliss.
Ingredients
To make these Cranberry Bliss Bars, gather the following ingredients.
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tools Needed
To create these delicious Cranberry Bliss Bars at home, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Here’s what I recommend:
- 9×9-inch Baking Pan: A standard size that’s perfect for even baking and easy cutting.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two sizes for combining ingredients separately.
- Whisk and Spatula: For mixing the crust and the white chocolate filling smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
- Parchment Paper: Helps in lining the baking pan for easy removal and cleanup.
- Saucepan: Needed to melt the white chocolate and combine it with the cream.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the bars to cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the bars into neat, manageable pieces once they’re set.
Having these tools on hand will make the process seamless and ensure your Cranberry Bliss Bars turn out just as delightful as the Starbucks originals.
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Cranberry Bliss Bars at home.
Prepare the Crust
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir the mixture until all crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the crumb mixture to a 9×9-inch baking pan. Use the bottom of a glass to press the crust firmly and evenly into the pan.
Make the Filling
- Melt White Chocolate: In a saucepan, heat 1 cup white chocolate chips with 1/2 cup heavy cream over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth and fully melted.
- Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Incorporate Cranberries: Gently fold in 1 cup dried cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Assemble the Bars
- Pour Filling Over Crust: Carefully pour the white chocolate cranberry mixture over the prepared crust in the baking pan.
- Smooth the Surface: Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly, ensuring there are no gaps or air bubbles.
Bake and Cool
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled bars for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly soft.
- Cool Completely: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool on a cooling rack for at least 2 hours. This ensures the filling firms up properly.
- Slice and Serve: Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. Enjoy your homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars!
Make Ahead Instructions
Preparing your Cranberry Bliss Bars ahead of time ensures you can enjoy this delightful treat whenever the craving strikes. Here’s how I manage to have these bars ready for any occasion:
Preparing in Advance
- Bake and Cool Completely
- After baking the bars at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, allow them to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for at least 2 hours. This ensures the filling sets properly, making slicing easier.
- Slice and Store
- Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into uniform squares. I find that dipping the knife in warm water between cuts helps achieve clean slices.
Storage Options
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving. |
| Pantry | Not recommended | Best kept refrigerated or frozen to preserve texture and flavor. |
Freezing for Longer Freshness
- Wrap Individually
- Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and preserve the vibrant cranberry flavor.
- Bag and Label
- Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Thaw Before Serving
- Remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For quicker thawing, you can place them in the refrigerator overnight.
Tips for Best Results
- Uniform Slicing: Ensure all bars are the same size for even freezing and thawing.
- Avoid Overlapping: When storing, avoid overlapping the bars to prevent them from sticking together.
- Check Freshness: Always check for any signs of freezer burn or moisture before serving, especially if stored for extended periods.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can have your Cranberry Bliss Bars ready to impress guests or satisfy your sweet tooth whenever you desire.
Conclusion
Creating these Cranberry Bliss Bars has been a delightful experience for me. Being able to enjoy that perfect mix of sweet and tart whenever I want is truly satisfying.
The recipe is straightforward and has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re baking for friends or treating yourself, these bars never disappoint.
I hope you give this copycat recipe a try and enjoy the homemade goodness as much as I do. Happy baking!
