Cranberry Bliss Bars with Orange Recipe

If you adore the perfect balance of tart cranberries, zesty orange, and creamy sweetness all baked into a delightful treat, then you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Cranberry Bliss Bars with Orange Recipe. These bars combine the chewy texture of a buttery base with bursts of dried cranberries and white chocolate, all topped with a luscious orange-infused cream cheese frosting. It’s a vibrant, festive dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring during cozy moments at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. From the richness of butter to the bright kick of orange zest, these essentials work together to make the bars unforgettable.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Creates a moist, tender base with a rich buttery flavor.
• Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds deep sweetness and enhances the chewy texture.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances sweetness and helps with the perfect crumb.
• Large eggs (3): Bind the ingredients and add moisture for softness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the overall flavor with its warm, aromatic notes.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides structure while keeping the bars tender.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the bars rise lightly for a soft texture.
• Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works alongside the baking powder to ensure proper leavening.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances and balances the sweetness.
• Dried cranberries (1 cup, chopped): Offers a tangy burst and chewy contrast.
• White chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Adds creamy sweetness and melty pockets throughout.
• Cream cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Base for the luscious frosting with tangy richness.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and smooths the frosting for easy spreading.
• Orange zest (1 tablespoon): Gives the frosting a fresh, citrusy brightness.
• Orange juice (2 tablespoons): Adds moisture and amplifies that zesty flavor in the frosting.
• Dried cranberries (1/4 cup, chopped): For garnish, adding both flavor and a lovely pop of color.
• White chocolate (1/3 cup, melted): For drizzling atop, making the presentation irresistibly appealing.

How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars with Orange Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Make sure to grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This simple prep will ensure your bars come out cleanly and are easy to lift from the pan later.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving a tender, moist bar with a perfect crumb.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, add the eggs to your sugar and butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for that classic warm aroma that will make your kitchen smell divine.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix will bring structure and balance to your bars.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want these bars to be tender, not tough.

Step 6: Fold in Cranberries and White Chocolate

Fold in the chopped dried cranberries and the white chocolate chips using a spatula. These little bursts of flavor create delightful pockets of tart and creamy sweetness throughout.

Step 7: Transfer Batter to Pan

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top for an even bake.

Step 8: Bake the Bars

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges turn a lovely golden brown.

Step 9: Cool the Bars

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, which is essential before frosting.

Step 10: Prepare the Frosting

Beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Mix in orange zest and orange juice until the frosting becomes creamy and spreadable, bursting with fresh citrus flavor.

Step 11: Frost and Garnish

Once the bars have cooled completely, spread the orange cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle with additional chopped dried cranberries, then use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle melted white chocolate for a finishing touch that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Step 12: Cut and Serve

Slice into squares or rectangles, and get ready to enjoy the fantastic flavors you just created!

How to Serve Cranberry Bliss Bars with Orange Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance these bars with a sprinkle of festive dried cranberries or a few extra white chocolate shavings. A twist of fresh orange peel can add an aromatic flourish and elevate the citrusy vibe, making your presentation pop.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cranberry Bliss Bars with a warm cup of tea or a rich, aromatic coffee for a delightful snack or dessert experience. They also work wonderfully alongside a fresh fruit salad, balancing sweetness with juicy freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings or special occasions, consider arranging the bars on a tiered serving tray, garnishing each tier with edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar. Wrapping individual bars in parchment and tying them with a festive ribbon can turn them into charming edible gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover bars keep beautifully stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them perfectly moist and fresh without drying out the frosting or base.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely before frosting to preserve the texture and taste.

Reheating

If you want to warm these bars slightly, do so gently at room temperature or in a microwave for about 10 seconds per piece. Warm bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat — just be careful not to overheat and melt the frosting.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried in Cranberry Bliss Bars with Orange Recipe?

Fresh cranberries contain much more moisture and can alter the texture significantly, potentially making the bars soggy. Dried cranberries are best for maintaining the chewy texture and balanced tartness.

Is it okay to use low-fat cream cheese for the frosting?

Using low-fat cream cheese can change the texture and richness of the frosting, making it less creamy. For the best flavor and consistency, stick to full-fat cream cheese.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum for structure, or add a small amount separately.

How long do the frosted bars stay fresh in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, frosted bars will stay fresh for about 5 days. The cool temperature helps preserve the cream cheese frosting perfectly.

Can I double this Cranberry Bliss Bars with Orange Recipe?

Absolutely! If you want to make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan or multiple pans. Just keep an eye on baking time, as it may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Bliss Bars with Orange Recipe truly shines with every bite, and I cannot recommend it enough for anyone looking to brighten their dessert spread with something both festive and delicious. Whether for your family table or a special gathering, these bars bring warmth, joy, and a little burst of citrus sunshine that will keep everyone coming back for more. Give this recipe a try—you’re going to be so glad you did!

Print