Hey y'all! If you crave those irresistible Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars during the holidays (or, honestly, anytime), you're going to love this homemade version. These bliss bars combine chewy blondie layers, zesty cranberries, and luscious sweet cream cheese frosting for a treat that’s perfect for gift-giving, festive parties, and cozy coffee breaks at home. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat Recipe at Home

Just like the real thing but even fresher and more affordable.
Comes together easily – no fancy equipment needed!
Perfect for holidays, bake sales, potlucks, or a sweet treat any day.
Makes your kitchen smell amazing with warm vanilla, orange, and cranberry notes.
Every bite is chewy, creamy, tangy, and sweet – total bliss!

Ingredients for Easy Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat Recipe at Home

¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon orange zest (from about 1 orange)
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup dried cranberries (plus extra for topping)
⅓ cup white chocolate chips
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons white chocolate chips, melted (for drizzling)
2-3 tablespoons dried cranberries, chopped (for garnish)

Directions: Easy Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat Recipe at Home

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan & Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Blondie Base

In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, and orange zest; whisk again until well combined. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until just incorporated. Gently fold in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

Spread the blondie batter evenly in your prepared pan. Bake for 22-26 minutes, until the bars are just golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Don’t overbake — you want them chewy! Cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars cool, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble & Decorate

Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Sprinkle reserved chopped cranberries over the top. Drizzle with melted white chocolate for that signature Starbucks-inspired finish. Allow chocolate to set before slicing into triangles or squares.

Notes for Easy Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat Recipe at Home

Lining your pan with parchment paper makes it much easier to remove and slice the bars.
Make sure your bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent a melty mess.
Need more info about melting chocolate? Check out these tips for melting chocolate from King Arthur Baking.

Variations of Easy Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat Recipe at Home

Gluten-Free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for all-purpose flour.
Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra crunch.
Lemon Lovers: Swap orange zest for lemon zest and add ½ teaspoon lemon juice to the frosting.

Required Equipment for Easy Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat Recipe at Home

9x9-inch baking pan
Parchment paper (optional but recommended)
Mixing bowls
Whisk & spatula
Electric mixer (or hand beater for frosting)
Measuring cups & spoons

Storage Instructions: Easy Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat Recipe at Home

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months, then frost after thawing.

Serving Recommendations for Cranberry Bliss Bars Starbucks Copycat

Serve with a hot cup of coffee, homemade brew, or chai latte for full Starbucks vibes.
Great addition to holiday cookie trays, dessert tables, or brunch spreads.
Drizzle extra white chocolate or dust with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.

Pro Tips for Easy Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat Recipe at Home

For extra-moist bars, don’t overbake – take them out when the center is just set.
Cool bars completely before frosting for clean layers and sharp cuts; see more cookie bar tips from Sally's Baking Addiction.
Use high-quality dried cranberries and real white chocolate for the best flavor and texture.

FAQ: Easy Cranberry Bliss Bars – Starbucks Copycat Recipe at Home

Can I make these bars ahead of time?: Absolutely! Bake the bars, cool, and store them (without frosting) in an airtight container. Frost the day you'll serve for the freshest taste.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?: It’s best to stick with dried cranberries for the chewy texture and balanced sweetness. Fresh cranberries are too tart and add excess moisture.
Can I double this recipe?: Yes! Double all ingredients and bake in a 9x13-inch pan. Add a few minutes to the baking time and check for doneness.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes