Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars: Easy Recipe You’ll Love

Name: Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars: Easy Recipe You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup dried cranberries; 1 cup white chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Home >

Recipes

Karen E.

Published:

December 19

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

What are Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars?

If you’ve ever walked into a Starbucks during the holiday season, you’ve likely encountered their Cranberry Bliss Bars. These delightful treats are a festive blend of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring a rich, moist cake base dotted with cranberries and topped off with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Imagine biting into a bar that perfectly balances that bright, fruity burst with a creamy finish. It’s no wonder they’ve gained such a following!

Now, why settle for just buying these incredible bars when you can make your own Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars at home? In the world of baking, there’s something special about the aromas that fill your kitchen and the joy of sharing your creations with friends and family. Plus, making them at home allows you to personalize the recipe to your taste. Want to throw in some nuts or use a different frosting? Go for it!

Why are these bars the perfect homemade treat?

There’s an undeniable charm to homemade treats, especially those that remind us of our favorite cafés. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love whipping up these Cranberry Bliss Bars in your own kitchen:

Fresh Ingredients: You control everything that goes in, so you can use the freshest cranberries and high-quality ingredients for a healthier twist.
Flexible Recipe: This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, you can modify it to suit your dietary needs or preferences.
Cost-Effective: Have you ever checked the price of those little bars? Making them at home is a much more budget-friendly option, allowing you to indulge without breaking the bank.
Perfect for Sharing: These bars make excellent gifts during the holiday season, or simply as a great treat for friends. Just imagine seeing their faces when you share your homemade version!

So, if you’re ready to bring that cozy Starbucks vibe into your home, grab your apron and let’s get baking. For more delicious holiday recipes, check out this guide on easy holiday baking tips that can elevate your skills!

Ingredients for Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

Creating your own Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars at home is not only a fun baking adventure but also provides a satisfying treat to enjoy with friends or family. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients you’ll need to make these delightful bars!

Essential ingredients for the blondie layer

To achieve that luscious blondie layer, gather the following ingredients:

Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Granulated sugar: To balance the sweetness and create a chewy texture.
Large eggs: Acts as a binder for all your ingredients.
Vanilla extract: A must for that homey aroma.
All-purpose flour: The base for your blondies.
Baking powder: To give the bars a nice lift.
Dried cranberries: For that iconic tart-sweet flavor.

Ingredients for the creamy frosting

The luscious frosting is what truly makes your Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars stand out. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cream cheese: For a rich, smooth texture.
Unsalted butter: Creates a creamy consistency.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and adds fluffiness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.

Toppings that elevate your bars

To finish off these tasty bars, consider some delightful toppings:

Chopped dried cranberries: For added texture and sweetness.
White chocolate drizzle: Perfect for that gourmet touch.
Orange zest: A touch of citrus brightens the flavors.

Baking these bars allows for creativity in your kitchen! If you’re looking for inspiration, check out more delicious recipes on The Spruce Eats or simply share your creations on social media. Happy baking!

Preparing Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

Making your own Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars at home is not only a fun activity but a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth! With layers of rich blondie, creamy frosting, and tart cranberries, these bars are irresistible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you whip up a batch that could easily rival your favorite café.

Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Pan

Begin your baking adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This might seem simple, but it makes all the difference when it’s time to slice and serve. The parchment allows for easy removal and keeps your bars from sticking—nobody wants to enjoy these treats in crumbs!

Brown the Butter for a Richer Flavor

Once your oven is preheated, it’s time to enhance the depth of flavor in these bars. In a medium saucepan, melt one cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it as it begins to foam; you’re aiming for a beautiful golden-brown hue. This technique, known as browning, adds a delightful nutty flavor to your Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars. Once browned, remove the butter from heat and let it cool slightly.

Combine Dry Ingredients

While your butter cools, it’s time to mix your dry ingredients. In a bowl, whisk together:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

This blend of flour and leavening agents will give your bars structure and lightness. Plus, incorporating salt enhances all the other flavors beautifully.

Create the Blondie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter and:

1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Using a hand mixer, blend these ingredients until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet, incorporating it gently until just combined. Stir in one cup of dried cranberries for that signature flavor!

Bake to Golden Perfection

With your thick, luscious batter ready, pour it into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for around 20–25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep a close watch—the smell will be heavenly, and you’ll want to avoid overbaking!

Make the Decadent Frosting

While the bars cool, let’s whip up that delicious frosting. In a bowl, beat together:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Blend until light and fluffy. This creamy topping is what elevates your Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars to the next level!

Assemble and Frost the Bars

Once your bars are completely cool, carefully remove them from the pan using the edges of the parchment paper. Spread the frosting evenly over the top, using a spatula to get that nice, smooth finish.

Top with Cranberries and Melted Chocolate

Now for the finishing touch! Sprinkle extra dried cranberries over the frosted surface. For an added treat, melt some semisweet chocolate in the microwave or a double boiler and drizzle it over the top. Chocolate and cranberries? A match made in dessert heaven.

Cool, Slice, and Serve!

Allow everything to set for about 30 minutes before slicing into squares. You’ll want to cut them evenly for beautiful presentation. These bars store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator if they last that long!

Creating Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars at home is a rewarding and delightful experience. Whether for a cozy gathering or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, these bars are sure to impress. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, and you’ll feel like you’re enjoying a café treat right at home!

Variations on Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

If you adore the Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars, you’ll be thrilled to know there are several ways to customize this delicious treat to fit your dietary preferences or flavor cravings! Let’s explore a few delightful variations that you can easily whip up in your own kitchen.

Nutty Cranberry Bliss Bars with Walnuts

Looking to add some crunch to your cranberry bliss bars? Consider throwing in chopped walnuts. Not only do they add an extra layer of flavor, but they also boost the nutritional profile with healthy fats. Picture this: the chewy texture of dried cranberries, the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting, and the nutty crunch of walnuts all combined. It’s pure bliss! You can simply replace a portion of the flour with finely chopped walnuts for a richer taste.

Gluten-Free Cranberry Bliss Bars

For our friends who are gluten-sensitive, making gluten-free Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars is a breeze. Swap regular flour with your favorite gluten-free blend, and make sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well! With this simple substitution, you won’t have to sacrifice taste or texture. In fact, many gluten-free flours, like almond or coconut flour, can add unique flavors to your bars that you might just love!

Vegan Version of Cranberry Bliss Bars

If you’re looking to delight your plant-based pals or simply want to enjoy a healthier version, try a vegan iteration of these cranberry bars! Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use almond or coconut milk in place of regular milk. For the frosting, vegan cream cheese works like a charm. You can enjoy the same sweet, tart delight while making a mindful choice for the environment.

These variations not only cater to different dietary needs, but they also allow you to experiment in the kitchen. Why not give them a go and share the joy with friends and family? The possibilities are endless! For more creative ideas, check out resources like EatingWell for inspiration.

Cooking Notes and Tips for Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

How to Avoid Overmixing the Batter

When making Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars, it’s essential to handle the batter gently. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies rather than the soft, tender texture we all crave. Mix until just combined, and you’ll keep that light, chewy quality. A good rule of thumb is to stop mixing as soon as there are no visible dry ingredients. Trust me, a few lumps are totally okay!

Tips for Perfect Blondies Every Time

To ensure your Cranberry Bliss Bars turn out flawlessly each time, consider these tips:

Room temperature ingredients: Use eggs and butter at room temperature for even mixing and a better rise.
Use quality cranberries: Dried cranberries can vary in flavor; opt for sweetened ones for that authentic flavor profile.
Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying delicious, homemade goodies that rival those at your local coffee shop. Happy baking! For more on achieving perfect blondies, check out resources from culinary experts like the American Culinary Federation.

Serving Suggestions for Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

Pairing with Seasonal Beverages

When you enjoy your Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars, consider pairing them with a seasonal beverage to elevate your experience! A piping hot cup of peppermint mocha or a spiced chai latte perfectly complements the bars’ sweet and tangy flavors, enhancing their cream-cheese frosting. For a non-caffeinated option, a warm apple cider or a refreshing cranberry sparkling water can also do wonders. These drink combinations not only taste fantastic but also create that cozy atmosphere we all crave during the season.

Presentation Ideas for Gatherings

Planning a get-together? Make your Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars the centerpiece of your dessert table! Cut the bars into smaller squares for easy sharing, and consider placing them on a festive platter adorned with holly leaves or cinnamon sticks for a seasonal touch. Adding a small card that highlights the flavors and ingredients can spark conversation and intrigue!

For even more inspiration, check out Food52 for unique presentation ideas that will impress your guests. Your bars are bound to be the highlight of your gathering!

Time breakdown for Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

Preparation time

Getting started on your Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars is a breeze. Set aside about 20 minutes for preparation; this includes gathering your ingredients and mixing your batter. The key is to have everything at hand—flour, cranberries, and those irresistible white chocolate chunks.

Baking time

Once your mixture is ready to go, you’ll bake the bars for approximately 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be golden but not overdone. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, signaling that they are perfectly baked.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish. Not too shabby for a fridge-friendly treat that’s bound to impress your friends and be a delightful addition to your holiday gatherings. For a step-by-step guide on these, don’t forget to check out our full recipe section!

Feel free to enhance your baking skills and explore other fantastic recipes on sites like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit. Happy baking!

Nutritional facts for Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

Calories per bar

When you’re indulging in these Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars, you might wonder how they stack up nutritionally. Each bar typically contains around 250 calories. That’s a sweet treat portion that won’t completely derail your daily intake, making it perfect for an occasional snack or a dessert at your coffee break.

Key nutrients

These delightful bars offer more than just empty calories. Here’s a quick glance at some of the key nutrients:

Protein: About 3 grams per bar, helping to keep you feeling full.
Fiber: Around 1.5 grams, which can aid digestion and promote overall health.
Sugars: Approximately 12-15 grams, contributing to that yummy sweetness without going overboard.

For those keeping an eye on their diet, these facts can help you enjoy your treat guilt-free. If you’d like to learn more about balancing your diet with treats, consider resources like the Harvard Health Blog for tips. Feel free to enjoy these bars as part of a balanced lifestyle!

FAQs about Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

Can I substitute ingredients?

Absolutely! One of the best things about making Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars at home is that you can customize them to fit your preferences. Don’t have dried cranberries? You can substitute them with raisins, chopped cherries, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor twist. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour. The cream cheese frosting can also be swapped for a vegan alternative if you prefer a plant-based option. Just remember that substitutions might slightly change the texture and flavor, but that’s all part of the fun in baking!

How should I store the bars?

To keep your Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars fresh longer, storage is key! After they cool completely, store them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for a few days, but for optimal freshness, it’s best to store them in the fridge. If you’re looking to extend their shelf life even further, consider freezing them. Just wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-friendly bag.

How long do the bars stay fresh?

When stored properly, your Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars can stay fresh for up to one week in the fridge. If you decide to freeze them, they can last for about three months—perfect for those moments when you need a quick sweet treat.

Baking these delightful bars not only satisfies your cravings but also brings warmth to those cozy gatherings. Try them out today, and don’t forget to share your experience with fellow bakers! For more inspiration, check out these baking resources from Sally’s Baking Addiction and Serious Eats.

Conclusion on Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

Why You Should Try Making These Bars at Home

If you’ve ever savored the delectable Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars, you know they’re a delightful treat that combines sweetness, tartness, and creamy goodness. Why not create this deliciousness in your kitchen?

Making these bars at home allows you to customize ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your friends during holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven, tailored just for you!

Try this recipe and discover the joy of homemade bliss bars. You might find that they become a new favorite! For more insights, check out resources like Serious Eats for additional baking inspiration.