This delightful Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars recipe is a lighter take on the popular festive treat from Starbucks. It's a mouthwatering blend of cranberries and white chocolate chips, creating a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. These bars have the added bonus of being lower in calories, making them a guilt-free indulgence during the holiday season.
Some ingredients in this recipe that you may not commonly find at home include unsweetened apple sauce, dried cranberries, and white baking chocolate. Unsweetened apple sauce is often used in baking as a healthy substitute for oil or butter. Dried cranberries add a burst of tartness to the sweet bars, while white baking chocolate provides the creamy, sweet contrast. Remember to look for these items in the baking or dried fruits sections when you head to the supermarket.
Ingredients for Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars
All purpose flour: A versatile ingredient that provides structure to the bars.
Baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent helping the bars to rise.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a touch of warmth and spiciness to the bars.
Granulated sugar and brown sugar: Sweetens the bars, with the brown sugar adding a hint of molasses flavor.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps in browning.
Egg whites: Provide structure and stability to the bars.
Unsweetened apple sauce: Adds moisture without extra fat or calories.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the bars.
White chocolate chips: Add a creamy, sweet element to the bars.
Dried cranberries: Offer a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
Cream cheese: Creates a rich, tangy frosting.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps it to set.
White baking chocolate: Adds sweetness and creaminess to the frosting.
One reader, Junina Franz says:
I recently tried the skinny cranberry bliss bars recipe, and it was a game-changer! The bars were a delightful treat, and the white chocolate and cranberry combo was simply divine. Plus, it's a healthier version, so I can indulge guilt-free. I highly recommend giving this recipe a try!
Techniques Required for Making Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars
How to prepare the batter: Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients and blend until smooth. Add a drop of water if the batter appears crumbly.
How to frost the bars: Use an electric mixer to blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread the frosting over the cooled bars and sprinkle with remaining cranberries. Drizzle with melted white chocolate.
How to cut the bars: Once the chocolate sets, cut the bars into 15 large squares or 5x3 cuts with a knife. Then, cut each square in half diagonally to create triangles.
How To Make Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars (Starbucks Copycat)
Just as good as Starbucks’s, these cranberry bliss bars is a 30-minute guiltless holiday treat, loaded with dried cranberries and smooth cream cheese.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Frosting:
Instructions
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- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch non-stick baking pan with cooking spray.
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- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon and stir to blend.
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- In another bowl, whisk the sugars with the butter, egg whites, applesauce, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
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- Whisk the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients in two additions until the batter is very well blended. If the batter looks more crumbly than smooth, if needed, add just a drop of water at a time, until it smooths out.
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- Fold in the white chocolate chips and ⅓ cup of cranberries.
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- Spread the batter onto the baking pan using the back of a measuring cup to smooth evenly.
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- Bake for about 10 to 14 minutes, until the edges are light brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Don’t overbake. Let it cool completely on the wire rack.
Frosting:
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- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until well-blended.
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- Frost the bars and sprinkle with remaining cranberries. Drizzle with the melted white chocolate*.
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- When the chocolate sets, cut into 15 large squares or 5×3 cuts with the knife. Then, cut each square in half diagonally to create triangles.
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- Serve, and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
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- *To melt the chocolate, place in a microwave safe cup and heat 15 seconds; stir. Another 15 seconds; stir until the chocolate is melted.
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- Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Nutrition
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- Calories: 150.80kcal
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- Fat: 6.45g
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- Saturated Fat: 3.79g
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- Trans Fat: 0.06g
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- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.71g
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- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.29g
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- Carbohydrates: 21.56g
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- Fiber: 0.73g
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- Sugar: 14.03g
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- Protein: 2.07g
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- Cholesterol: 13.21mg
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- Sodium: 76.97mg
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- Calcium: 21.94mg
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- Potassium: 57.45mg
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- Iron: 0.80mg
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- Vitamin A: 40.97µg
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- Vitamin C: 0.46mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars
When folding the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries into the batter, be gentle and use a spatula. Overmixing can cause the batter to become tough and the bars to bake up dense rather than light and tender. Also, when melting the white baking chocolate for the drizzle, use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Starbucks Copycat Recipe
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to save time and ensure you have everything you need.
Use pre-made frosting: Consider using store-bought frosting to save time, or prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Chop ingredients in advance: Pre-chop the cranberries and white chocolate to have them ready when it's time to add them to the recipe.
Bake in batches: If your oven space allows, consider baking multiple batches at once to save time.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work to avoid wasting time searching for tools or ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe (Starbucks Copycat)
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour is a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour and adds a nutty flavor to the bars.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter and adds a subtle coconut flavor to the bars.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index compared to granulated sugar, making it a healthier option.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, natural sweetness and can be used as a healthier alternative to brown sugar.
white chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips are a healthier alternative to white chocolate chips and provide a rich, deep chocolate flavor to the bars.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to cream cheese, providing a tangy flavor and creamy texture for the frosting.
powdered sugar - Substitute with stevia: Stevia is a natural sweetener with zero calories and can be used as a healthier alternative to powdered sugar for the frosting.
white baking chocolate - Substitute with cacao butter: Cacao butter is a healthier alternative to white baking chocolate and adds a rich, chocolatey flavor to the frosting.
These substitutes can help create a healthier version of the skinny cranberry bliss bars while maintaining delicious flavors.
How to Beautifully Present Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars
Elevate the plating: When presenting the skinny cranberry bliss bars, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and precise placement of the bars to showcase the layers and textures of the dessert.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant elements to the plate to create a visually striking contrast. Consider using fresh mint leaves or edible flowers to add a pop of color against the white chocolate and cranberry hues.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the bars in a symmetrical pattern to exude a sense of balance and precision. This attention to detail will demonstrate a high level of culinary finesse and artistry.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space to allow the dessert to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate and instead, strategically position the bars to create a visually captivating presentation.
Incorporate height: Experiment with varying heights by stacking the bars or incorporating a decorative element that adds verticality to the presentation. This technique adds dimension and visual interest to the overall plating.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the final touches, ensuring that each element on the plate is meticulously placed and garnished. This level of precision reflects a commitment to culinary excellence and elevates the overall dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes.
- Non-stick baking pan: Ideal for baking and ensures easy release of baked goods.
- Measuring cup: Used for accurately measuring ingredients.
- Wire rack: Allows air to circulate around baked goods for even cooling.
- Electric mixer: Used for mixing and blending ingredients, especially for making frosting and batter.
- Knife: Essential for cutting and slicing ingredients and finished dishes.
- Food processor: Useful for chopping, pureeing, and blending ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: Used for combining and mixing ingredients.
- Whisk: Essential for blending and incorporating ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula: Used for spreading batter and frosting, and for lifting and flipping delicate items.
- Cooking spray: Used for greasing baking pans and preventing sticking.
Storing and Freezing Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars
Let the cranberry bliss bars cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticky.
To store, place the bars in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cranberry bliss bars:
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen bars, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour, or in the refrigerator overnight.
If you prefer your cranberry bliss bars slightly warm, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds after thawing.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid refreezing previously thawed bars.
How To Reheat Leftover Cranberry Bliss Bars
To reheat leftover skinny cranberry bliss bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the bars are heated through and the white chocolate drizzle is slightly melted. This method will help restore the bars' texture and flavor, making them taste freshly baked.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the cranberry bliss bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 15-20 seconds on high power. Check the bar and heat for an additional 5-10 seconds if needed. Be careful not to overheat, as the cream cheese frosting may melt and become runny.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior, use an air fryer to reheat your leftover bars. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the bars in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the bars are warmed to your liking. This method will help maintain the bars' texture and prevent them from becoming soggy.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your skinny cranberry bliss bars. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bars on a small baking sheet or directly on the rack. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the bars are heated through and the white chocolate drizzle is slightly melted. This method is perfect for reheating small batches of bars quickly and efficiently.
Interesting Fact About Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars
The Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars recipe is a delicious copycat of the Starbucks treat. These bars are a lighter, healthier version of the original, making them a guilt-free indulgence. They are packed with the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberries and white chocolate, making them a perfect holiday treat. Enjoying these bars can be a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling too guilty.
Is Making Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this skinny cranberry bliss bars recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. While some items like flour, sugar, and baking soda are commonly found and affordable, others like white chocolate chips and dried cranberries might be pricier. Considering the use of unsweetened applesauce and egg whites instead of whole eggs and butter, it can be a relatively cost-effective option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-20. Overall Verdict: 8.
Are Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for skinny cranberry bliss bars is a healthier twist on the classic Starbucks treat. While it does incorporate some nutritious ingredients like unsweetened applesauce and dried cranberries, it still contains a significant amount of sugar and fat.
The recipe calls for both granulated and brown sugar, which contribute to the overall sweetness of the bars. Additionally, the use of butter and cream cheese in the frosting adds saturated fat to the dessert. White chocolate chips and drizzled white chocolate also increase the calorie and fat content.
On the positive side, the recipe uses whole wheat flour, which provides more fiber and nutrients compared to refined all-purpose flour. The unsweetened applesauce helps to reduce the amount of butter needed, thus lowering the fat content slightly. The dried cranberries offer a small amount of fruit and antioxidants to the bars.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or oat flour for added fiber and nutrition
- Reduce the amount of sugar used in both the batter and frosting, or experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese in the frosting to cut down on saturated fat
- Increase the amount of dried cranberries and decrease the white chocolate chips for a better balance of fruit to chocolate
- Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for healthy fats and protein
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the cranberry bliss bars while still enjoying the indulgent flavors of this holiday favorite. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to treating yourself to desserts like these.
Editor's Opinion on These Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars
This recipe for skinny cranberry bliss bars is a delightful and healthier alternative to the Starbucks version. The use of apple sauce and egg whites reduces the fat content, while the combination of white chocolate chips and dried cranberries adds a burst of flavor. The frosting, made with cream cheese and powdered sugar, provides a luscious finish. The bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the guilt-free indulgence!
Enhance Your Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe (Starbucks Copycat) with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars
Why trust this Skinny Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe (Starbucks Copycat):
This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, combining the tartness of dried cranberries with the sweetness of white chocolate chips. The use of unsweetened apple sauce not only adds moisture but also reduces the need for additional fats, making it a healthier option. The inclusion of cream cheese in the frosting provides a rich and creamy finish, while the addition of vanilla extract enhances the overall aroma. The careful blending of granulated sugar and brown sugar ensures a perfect level of sweetness. With these high-quality ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying treat.
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