If you’re dreaming of a festive dessert that tastes like it came straight from your favorite coffee shop, these Cranberry Bliss Bars are about to become your new holiday tradition. With their chewy blondie base, creamy frosting, sweet white chocolate, and tart pops of cranberry, these bars deliver warmth, richness, and seasonal charm in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a cozy treat to pair with a warm cup of coffee, this easy recipe brings bakery-style bliss right into your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love These Cranberry Bliss Bars
These bars are festive, indulgent, and unbelievably simple to make. The blondie base is buttery, soft, and loaded with white chocolate and cranberries for a sweet-tart balance. The cream cheese frosting adds that signature coffee-shop flavor, while the extra cranberries and white chocolate drizzle make the bars look beautifully holiday-ready. Serve them at parties, wrap them as edible gifts, or enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge — they’re always a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Blondie Base
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup white chocolate, chopped
- 2/3 cup dried cranberries, chopped
For the Frosting & Topping
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (for topping)
- 1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the blondie batter
In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and glossy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and stir gently — don’t overmix.
Step 3: Fold in the mix-ins
Stir in the chopped white chocolate and dried cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Bake the base
Spread the batter into a parchment-lined baking pan and smooth the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes or until golden around the edges. Let the bars cool completely before frosting.
Step 5: Make the cream cheese frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and spreadable.
Step 6: Frost and decorate
Spread the frosting evenly across the cooled blondie base. Sprinkle dried cranberries on top and drizzle with melted white chocolate for a festive finish.
Step 7: Chill and slice
Refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes to help the frosting set. Slice into triangles or squares — the classic café style — and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- Add orange zest to the frosting for a bright citrus twist.
- Use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate for a softer texture.
- Substitute dried cherries for cranberries for a new flavor profile.
- Go lighter by using part-skim cream cheese.
- Make ahead — these bars taste even better the next day!
Serving Ideas & Storage
Serve these bars chilled for the best texture — the creamy frosting and soft blondie base hold their shape beautifully. Pair them with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for the perfect holiday treat.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted blondie base for up to 2 months, then thaw and frost when ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~245 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 32g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 110mg |
Final Thoughts
These easy cranberry bliss bars deliver everything you love about holiday baking — sweet flavors, festive colors, and warm, comforting textures. Whether served at a party or enjoyed with a cup of coffee at home, they’re guaranteed to make the season feel extra special. Enjoy every delicious, berry-studded bite!