Name: Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat)
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 bars
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 ¼ cups light brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon orange zest; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup dried cranberries; ¾ cup white chocolate chips; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; ¼ cup dried cranberries, chopped (for topping); ¼ cup white chocolate chips, melted (for drizzling)

Hey y'all! If you've ever drooled over that decadent cranberry treat from your favorite coffee shop, get ready to be amazed. These Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat) are soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet with luscious cream cheese frosting and tangy dried cranberries. They're ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply treating yourself at home. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat)

Soft, chewy, and bursting with cranberry flavor in every bite.
Easy to make from scratch with simple ingredients you already have at home.
Makes a beautiful addition to any dessert table or holiday platter.
Keeps fresh for days—making them perfect for make-ahead entertaining.

Ingredients for Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat)

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 cup packed light brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 cup dried sweetened cranberries, coarsely chopped
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
½ cup additional dried cranberries (for topping)
¼ cup white chocolate, melted, for drizzle (optional)

Directions: How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat)

Prep and Blondie Layer

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
Fold in white chocolate chips and chopped dried cranberries.
Spread batter evenly into prepared pan. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until just set and a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Don’t overbake!
Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth (about 1 minute).
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat again until fluffy and easy to spread.
Spread frosting evenly over the cooled blondie layer.

Topping and Drizzle

Sprinkle the extra dried cranberries evenly over the frosted bars.
Drizzle with melted white chocolate using a fork or piping bag for that classic finish (optional).
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour for easier cutting. Lift from the pan and slice into triangles or bars.

Notes for Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat)

For extra flavor depth, try browning your butter first—learn how here.
You can use either block-style cream cheese (recommended for thick frosting) or whipped spread in a pinch.
If your powdered sugar is lumpy, always sift for a silky smooth frosting—see tips from King Arthur Baking.

Variations on Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat)

Nutty Bliss Bars: Stir in ½ cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
Citrus Twist: Add 1 tablespoon grated orange zest to the batter and frosting for a zesty lift.

Required Equipment for Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat)

9x13-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer (hand or stand)
Rubber spatula
Wire rack

Storage Instructions for Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat)

Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped bars for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the fridge for best taste and texture.

Suggested Pairings and Serving Recommendations

Pair these bars with a hot cup of coffee or chai latte for the ultimate treat.
Serve as a festive holiday dessert, or slice small for brunch spreads.
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent touch!

Pro Tips for Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat)

Let your bars chill completely before slicing for the cleanest, bakery-style edges (learn more about perfect bar slicing here).
Don't overmix your batter—stir just until ingredients are combined for ultra-tender bars.
Use room temperature cream cheese for easy, lump-free frosting every time.

FAQ – Cranberry Bliss Bars (Better Than Starbucks Copycat)

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?: Dried cranberries are best, as fresh ones add too much moisture and tartness to the bars.
What’s the best way to melt white chocolate for drizzling?: Melt white chocolate carefully in the microwave in short intervals or use a double boiler to avoid burning.
How do I make these ahead of time?: Prepare and frost the bars a day in advance, then refrigerate until ready to slice and serve.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 24 bars