Elevate your dessert game with our irresistible Cranberry Bliss Bars.
These indulgent treats are a delightful combination of tangy cranberries, creamy white chocolate, and warm spices, all nestled within a soft, chewy blondie base.
Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you crave a sweet and festive treat, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Blondie Base:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
For the Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips, melted
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
Prepare the Blondie Base:
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar until well combined.
Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in white chocolate chips and dried cranberries. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake the Blondies:
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Stir in chopped dried cranberries.
Frost the Bars:
Once the blondies are cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
Drizzle with White Chocolate:
Drizzle melted white chocolate over the frosting in a zigzag pattern.
Chill and Serve:
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set. Once set, cut into bars
and serve.
Nutritional Facts
(Per serving, approximately 1 bar)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 105mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 3g
Health Benefits
Cranberry Bliss Bars can offer several health benefits, depending on their ingredients and how they’re prepared:
Cranberries:
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and polyphenols, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
They are also a good source of vitamin C, vitamin E, and fiber. Consuming cranberries may support urinary tract health, reduce the risk of certain infections, and promote heart health.
Whole Grains:
Some Cranberry Bliss Bar recipes use whole grain flour, oats, or other whole grains as a base.
Whole grains are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and they may help lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood sugar, and promote digestive health.
Nuts:
Many Cranberry Bliss Bar recipes include nuts, such as almonds or walnuts. Nuts are a good source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
They have been associated with reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and better weight management when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Portion Control:
While Cranberry Bliss Bars can be a delicious treat, they often contain added sugars and fats.
Enjoying them in moderation and being mindful of portion sizes can help prevent overconsumption of calories and unhealthy ingredients.
Homemade vs. Store-bought:
Making Cranberry Bliss Bars at home allows you to control the ingredients and reduce the amount of added sugar or unhealthy fats.
You can also customize the recipe to include healthier options like reducing the sugar content, using whole grain flour, or incorporating natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Overall, while Cranberry Bliss Bars can be a tasty indulgence, it’s essential to enjoy them as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle.
Choosing recipes with wholesome ingredients and practicing portion control can help you reap the potential health benefits while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be used, but they will add extra moisture to the bars. Consider chopping them finely and adjusting the baking time accordingly.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze Cranberry Bliss Bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. Can I omit the white chocolate chips?
While white chocolate adds richness and sweetness to the bars, you can omit them if desired or substitute with another type of chocolate chips.
5. Can I use a different frosting?
Feel free to experiment with different frostings, such as a classic cream cheese frosting or a vanilla glaze, to suit your taste preferences.