If you're a fan of Starbucks' iconic holiday treat, the White Chocolate Cranberry Bliss Bar, then this copycat recipe is for you! A perfect blend of sweet white chocolate and tart dried cranberries, these bars bring the festive flavor of the season right into your kitchen. The creamy frosting and the tangy orange zest topping give it an irresistible finish that's sure to impress.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are likely to be found in your pantry, but there are a couple you might need to pick up. Dried cranberries and white chocolate chips are the stars of this recipe, adding a festive touch and a luxurious sweetness. You'll also need white chocolate melting disks for the drizzle on top. These can be found in the baking aisle of most supermarkets. Lastly, you might need to pick up some orange for the zest and juice in the frosting.
Ingredients for White Chocolate Cranberry Bliss Bars
Unsalted butter: A common baking ingredient that adds richness and depth to the bars.
Egg: Helps to bind the ingredients together.
Light brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness to the bars.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
All-purpose flour: The base of the bars, providing structure and texture.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Ground ginger: A warm spice that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
White chocolate chips: Adds sweetness and a creamy texture to the bars.
Dried cranberries: Adds a tart contrast to the sweet white chocolate.
Orange juice and zest: Brings a fresh, citrusy note to the frosting.
Cream cheese: The base of the frosting, adding a creamy, tangy flavor.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps it set.
White chocolate melting disks: Used for the white chocolate drizzle on top.
One reader, Ferdy Foy says:
These white chocolate cranberry bliss bars are a game-changer! The combination of sweet white chocolate and tart cranberries is heavenly. The recipe is easy to follow and the end result is absolutely delicious. I highly recommend trying this Starbucks copycat recipe for a delightful treat!
Techniques Required for Making White Chocolate Cranberry Bliss Bars
Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and spray an 8x8-inch baking pan with baking spray or use butter and flour to coat it.
Whisk together the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla. Then add in the egg.
Add dry ingredients and mix: Add in the flour and salt, ground ginger, ½ cup of cranberries, and ¾ cup white chocolate chips. Stir until just combined, then put it into the baking pan and bake for 18 to 20 minutes.
Melt white chocolate: Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl for 1 minute in 30-second increments.
Prepare the frosting: In a mixer, add the cream cheese, vanilla extract, ¾ of the melted white chocolate, 3 cups of powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Beat on medium-high for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is really light and fluffy.
Spread the frosting: Spread the frosting on the bars, sprinkle on the ¼ cup of cranberries, and drizzle on the ¼ cup melted white chocolate.
How To Make White Chocolate Cranberry Bliss Bars (Starbucks Copycat)
Pair a cup of coffee with these cranberry bliss bars from Starbucks. They’re made with a chewy blondie topped with orange-infused white chocolate drizzle.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Cranberry Bliss Bars:
- ½cupunsalted butter,melted
- 1large egg
- 1cuplight brown sugar,packed
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 1cupall-purpose flour
- ¼tspsalt
- ½tspground ginger
- ¾cupwhite chocolate chips
- ½cupdried cranberries,divided
For Frosting and Toppings:
- 2tbsporange juice
- 1tsporange zest
- 4ozcream cheese,softened
- 1tspvanilla extract
- 3cupspowdered sugar
- 1cupwhite chocolate melting disks,melted and divided
- ¼cupcranberries
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and spray an 8×8-inch baking pan with baking spray or use butter and flour to coat it.
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla, then add in the egg.
-
Add in the flour and salt, ground ginger, ½ cup of cranberries, and ¾ cup white chocolate chips, and whisk again. Stir until just combined, then put it into the baking pan and bake for 18 to 20 minutes.
-
Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl for 1 minute in 30-second increments.
-
In a mixer, add the cream cheese, vanilla extract, ¾ of the melted white chocolate, 3 cups of powdered sugar, orange juice, orange zest. Beat on medium high for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture to be really light and fluffy.
-
Spread the frosting on the bars, sprinkle on the ¼ cup of cranberries, and drizzle on the ¼ cup melted white chocolate.
Nutrition
- Calories: 230.73kcal
- Fat: 9.72g
- Saturated Fat: 5.82g
- Trans Fat: 0.16g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.62g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.42g
- Carbohydrates: 34.89g
- Fiber: 0.38g
- Sugar: 29.89g
- Protein: 1.88g
- Cholesterol: 25.72mg
- Sodium: 58.37mg
- Calcium: 38.28mg
- Potassium: 65.91mg
- Iron: 0.41mg
- Vitamin A: 54.27µg
- Vitamin C: 0.98mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting These Starbucks-Inspired Bars
When melting your white chocolate, be sure to do so in a microwave-safe bowl and in 30-second increments. This method prevents the chocolate from burning and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Also, stirring the chocolate after each 30-second interval promotes even melting. Remember, white chocolate can seize or burn easily, so keep a close eye on it.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Starbucks Copycat Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the frosting and cranberry topping a day in advance to save time on the day of baking.
Room temperature ingredients: Bring the butter, cream cheese, and egg to room temperature before starting the recipe to ensure even mixing and faster baking.
Chill the bars: After baking, place the bars in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process before adding the frosting and toppings.
Use parchment: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars, saving time on cleanup and presentation.
Double batch: Consider making a double batch and freezing the extra bars for future use, maximizing your time and effort.
Substitute Ingredients For White Chocolate Cranberry Bliss Bars (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the bars while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 replacement for brown sugar and adds a slightly caramel-like flavor to the bars.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: For a gluten-free version, using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can replace regular flour without compromising the texture.
white chocolate chips - Substitute with vegan white chocolate chips: Vegan white chocolate chips can be used to make the recipe dairy-free while still providing the creamy sweetness of white chocolate.
dried cranberries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries can be used as a substitute for dried cranberries, providing a similar tartness and sweetness to the bars.
orange juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can be used as a substitute for orange juice, providing a tangy citrus flavor for the frosting.
cream cheese - Substitute with vegan cream cheese: Vegan cream cheese can be used to make the recipe dairy-free while still providing a creamy and tangy frosting.
white chocolate melting disks - Substitute with coconut butter: Coconut butter can be used as a substitute for white chocolate melting disks, providing a creamy and rich texture for the topping.
cranberries - Substitute with dried blueberries: Dried blueberries can be used as a substitute for cranberries, providing a similar chewy texture and sweet-tart flavor to the topping.
How to Beautifully Present These Copycat Starbucks Bars
Elevate the plating: When presenting the white chocolate cranberry bliss bars, pay attention to the plating. Use a clean, white plate to create a beautiful contrast with the colorful bars. Arrange the bars in a visually appealing manner, ensuring they are evenly spaced and the frosting is delicately spread.
Garnish with fresh cranberries: Add a touch of freshness and color to the plate by garnishing with fresh cranberries. Their vibrant red hue will complement the white chocolate and add a pop of seasonal charm to the presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce an element of elegance by incorporating delicate, edible flowers into the presentation. Choose flowers that are safe for consumption, such as pansies or violets, and strategically place them around the bliss bars for a sophisticated touch.
Dust with powdered sugar: Before serving, lightly dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar. This subtle addition will enhance the visual appeal and lend a touch of finesse to the overall presentation.
Create a drizzle design: Use the melted white chocolate to create an artistic drizzle design on the plate. This technique adds a professional touch and showcases your attention to detail, elevating the overall visual impact of the dish.
Essential Tools Needed for Making Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for baking the cranberry bliss bars.
- Baking pan: Use an 8x8-inch baking pan, greased with baking spray or coated with butter and flour, to bake the bars.
- Large bowl: Whisk together the ingredients for the cranberry bliss bars in a large bowl.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Use to melt the white chocolate in the microwave in 30-second increments.
- Mixer: Use a mixer to beat the cream cheese, vanilla extract, melted white chocolate, powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest for the frosting.
Storing and Freezing Tips for White Chocolate Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Once the white chocolate cranberry bliss bars have cooled completely, cut them into triangles or squares, depending on your preference.
- Place the bars in an airtight container, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring that it is sealed tightly to maintain the bars' freshness and prevent them from drying out.
- If you want to freeze the bars for later consumption, follow these steps:
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, making sure that it is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date of freezing, so you can keep track of how long they have been stored.
- Freeze the white chocolate cranberry bliss bars for up to 2 months.
- To thaw the frozen bars, remove them from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 4-5 hours, allowing them to defrost gradually.
- Once thawed, you can remove the bars from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving, allowing the cream cheese frosting to soften slightly for the best texture and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Cranberry Bliss Bars
To reheat leftover white chocolate cranberry bliss bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for 5-7 minutes, or until they're warmed through and the white chocolate chips start to melt slightly. This method will help restore the bars' gooey texture and bring out the flavors of the cranberries and white chocolate.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place a single bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 10-15 seconds at a time, checking after each interval to ensure the bar doesn't overheat and become too soft. The microwave method is quick and convenient, but be careful not to overdo it, as the cream cheese frosting may melt and lose its texture.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior, you can use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bar directly on the rack. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the edges start to crisp up and the center is warm. Keep a close eye on the bar to prevent burning, as toaster ovens can vary in temperature and intensity.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your white chocolate cranberry bliss bars for a quick and crispy result. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the bar in the basket. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the bar is warmed through and the edges are slightly crispy. This method works well for those who enjoy a bit of texture contrast in their desserts.
Interesting Fact About White Chocolate Cranberry Bliss Bars
White chocolate cranberry bliss bars are a popular holiday treat at Starbucks. They were first introduced in 2005 and quickly became a seasonal favorite. The combination of white chocolate and cranberries creates a delightful flavor profile that is perfect for festive gatherings and celebrations. These bars are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the season and make a great homemade gift for friends and family.
Is Making Cranberry Bliss Bars at Home Cost-Effective?
This white chocolate cranberry bliss bars recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of white chocolate chips and dried cranberries may increase the cost, but the ingredients are versatile and can be used in various recipes. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering its delightful flavor and the ability to be a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and events.
Are These Cranberry Bliss Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for white chocolate cranberry bliss bars, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe is high in sugar, with 1 cup of brown sugar in the base and 3 cups of powdered sugar in the frosting. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, dental issues, and increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes.
- The bars are also high in fat, particularly saturated fat from the butter and cream cheese. While some fat is essential in our diets, excessive saturated fat intake can contribute to heart disease and other health problems.
- White chocolate, a key ingredient in this recipe, is not really chocolate at all. It's made from cocoa butter, milk, and sugar, lacking the beneficial antioxidants and flavonoids found in dark chocolate.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in both the base and the frosting. You can experiment with using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in place of some of the refined sugar.
- Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value.
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese in the frosting to cut down on saturated fat.
- Incorporate more dried cranberries and less white chocolate to increase the fruit content and reduce the sugar and fat from the white chocolate.
- Cut the bars into smaller portions to encourage mindful eating and portion control.
Editor's Opinion on These White Chocolate Cranberry Bliss Bars
The combination of white chocolate and cranberries in this recipe creates a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. The addition of ginger adds a warm and spicy note, elevating the overall taste profile. The cream cheese frosting with a hint of orange zest and juice complements the bars perfectly, adding a refreshing citrusy touch. The texture is moist and chewy, making each bite a delightful experience. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful rendition of the Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars, and it's sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Why trust this White Chocolate Cranberry Bliss Bars (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe:
This recipe is a trusted replication of the beloved Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars. With a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, the combination of white chocolate, cranberries, and a hint of orange creates a delightful flavor profile. The detailed instructions ensure that every step is clear and easy to follow, guaranteeing a successful outcome. The use of high-quality ingredients such as real butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract promises a delicious and indulgent treat. Trust in this recipe to bring the irresistible taste of Starbucks into your own kitchen.
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