Introduction
Embrace the delicious fusion of tart cranberries, creamy white chocolate, and a hint of orange in these updated Cranberry Bliss Bars. Perfect for a festive treat or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, these bars are the right blend of tangy and sweet.
Ingredients
200g unsalted butter, softened
150g brown sugar
100g granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon orange extract
250g all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
150g dried cranberries
100g white chocolate chips
100g white chocolate, melted (for drizzling)
For the Frosting:
150g cream cheese, softened
80g powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Extracts
Add the eggs to the mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour in the vanilla and orange extracts, allowing the citrusy fragrance to enhance the batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and salt.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should remain slightly thick and fluffy.
Step 6: Fold in Cranberries and Chocolate
Gently fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips. The colors will blend beautifully, hinting at the delightful taste to come.
Step 7: Bake the Bars
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The edges should turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center will come out clean.
Step 8: Cool the Bars
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This allows the bars to settle and makes them easier to cut.
Step 9: Make the Frosting
While the bars cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest, mixing until everything is creamy and well combined.
Step 10: Frost the Bars
Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top, creating a luscious layer that complements the tangy cranberries.
Step 11: Drizzle with White Chocolate
Melt the remaining white chocolate and drizzle it over the frosted bars. This adds a gorgeous finish and an extra touch of sweetness.
Step 12: Cut and Serve
Allow the white chocolate drizzle to set before cutting the bars into squares. These treats are ready to be enjoyed at any gathering or as a personal indulgence!
Notes
Storage Tips
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks.
Customization Options
Feel free to customize your Cranberry Bliss Bars. Add nuts for extra crunch or substitute cranberries with cherries for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, perfect for a cozy afternoon.
Variations
Try adding a splash of lemon juice in the frosting for a zesty kick or using dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer flavor.
Cook techniques
Creaming Butter and Sugar
To achieve a light and fluffy texture in your bars, cream unsalted butter with brown and granulated sugar until it’s pale and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a softer baked good.
Egg Incorporation
Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps to create a stable emulsion that contributes to the structure of the bars.
Proper Mixing of Dry Ingredients
When whisking together the dry ingredients, ensure they are well combined before adding them to the wet mixture. This technique helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt, which are essential for the rising process.
Folding Technique
When adding the cranberries and white chocolate chips, use a folding motion to gently mix them into the batter. This technique prevents the mixture from deflating and ensures that the chunks are evenly distributed.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C. Keep an eye on the bars during the last few minutes, as ovens can vary. Look for golden-brown edges and a toothpick that comes out clean to indicate they are done.
Cooling Method
Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack. This helps to prevent them from becoming soggy and allows them to set properly before cutting.
Frosting Technique
When making the frosting, beat the cream cheese until smooth before gradually adding powdered sugar and other ingredients. Mixing until fully combined ensures a creamy and spreadable frosting.
Chocolate Drizzling
For the melted white chocolate drizzle, allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over the frosted bars. This will help to control the flow and create a beautiful pattern without it melting the frosting.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Using fresh cranberries is possible, but they are much more tart. If you choose to use fresh, consider adding extra sugar to balance the tartness.
How do I store leftover bars?
Store leftover Cranberry Bliss Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze Cranberry Bliss Bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to three months.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
A good substitute for cream cheese could be mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar texture. However, the flavor may differ slightly.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can provide extra texture and flavor. Mix them in with the cranberries and white chocolate chips.
Conclusion
Embrace the delightful balance of tart and sweet with these updated Cranberry Bliss Bars. Their blend of flavors, featuring cranberries, white chocolate, and a zesty hint of orange, makes them an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for the holidays or looking for a satisfying snack, these bars are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
Chocolate Chip Cranberry Bars
Combine the original cranberry bliss flavors with rich chocolate chips for a delightful twist that adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Cranberry Almond Bliss Bars
Incorporate chopped almonds into the batter for a nutty crunch that complements the cranberries and white chocolate perfectly.
Orange Cranberry Oat Bars
Add oats to the mixture for a heartier texture, enhancing both the flavor and nutrition while maintaining that lovely citrus touch.
Spiced Ginger Cranberry Bars
Introduce ground ginger and a touch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.
Maple Pecan Cranberry Bars
Swap in maple syrup for part of the sugar and fold in chopped pecans for a delightful autumnal flavor profile that still honors the original recipe.
