Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars Recipe
These Tasty Starbucks Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars feature a rich blondie base with browned butter, dried cranberries, and white chocolate chunks, topped with a creamy orange-infused cream cheese frosting and decorated with chopped cranberries and white chocolate drizzle. Perfect for dessert or a special snack, they capture the beloved flavors of the original Starbucks treat with a delightful homemade touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Blondie Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (7.5 oz)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp table salt
- 12 tbsp unsalted butter (6 oz)
- 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar (10.5 oz)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp grated orange zest
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries (3.5 oz, loosely packed)
- 1 1/3 cups white chocolate, chopped or chips (8 oz)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted (6 oz)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest, finely grated
- 2/3 cup white chocolate, melted (4 oz)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped (2.3 oz, loosely packed)
- 1 2/3 cups white chocolate, melted (10 oz)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the middle. Spray a 9 by 13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray, then line it with parchment paper with some overhang for easy removal. Spray the parchment paper again to prevent sticking.
- Brown the Butter: In a light-colored saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir frequently until the butter foams and milk solids turn golden brown, then remove from heat and transfer to a bowl, scraping all browned bits. Let cool completely. This adds a deep, nutty flavor to the blondies.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. In a large bowl, combine the cooled browned butter and light brown sugar until blended. Stir in the beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth.
- Combine Batter and Bake: Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. Fold in chopped white chocolate and dried cranberries. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan, smoothing the surface. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until edges are golden and top is set. Cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- Prepare and Spread the Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese, sifted confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, orange juice, and grated orange zest until fluffy and smooth. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Optionally chill for 10 minutes to ease decorating.
- Add Toppings and Finish: Evenly sprinkle roughly chopped dried cranberries over the frosting. Drizzle melted white chocolate decoratively on top, using a zip-top bag with a snipped corner for control. Refrigerate until the frosting and drizzle are firm and set.
- Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift bars from the pan. Cut into triangles or desired shapes. Serve and enjoy! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Browned butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the blondies.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a tender texture.
- Chilling after frosting makes decorating easier and helps the frosting set properly.
- For a firmer frosting, add more powdered sugar or white chocolate if needed, especially in warmer climates.
- Store bars in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 5 days to keep them fresh.
Keywords: Cranberry Bliss Bars, Starbucks Copycat, Blondies, White Chocolate, Cranberry Dessert, Homemade Starbucks, Holiday Bars
