Cranberry Bliss Bars (Coffee-Shop Copycat)

If you’ve ever found yourself craving the perfect balance of tart cranberries, sweet white chocolate, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, then you’re in for a treat with these Cranberry Bliss Bars (Coffee-Shop Copycat). Inspired by the beloved coffee shop classic, this homemade version is incredibly easy to whip up, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. With a tender, buttery base studded with dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, topped with a smooth cream cheese glaze, these bars are a festive favorite all year round.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Cranberry Bliss Bars (Coffee-Shop Copycat) hit all the right notes to please any crowd. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet white chocolate creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The texture is another standout—the bars are soft, moist, and slightly chewy with a creamy topping that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, brunch, or just because, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, they look beautiful on any dessert table, adding a splash of color and elegance without any fuss.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 cup of dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup of powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for frosting)

Equipment & Tools

• 9×9-inch baking pan – for perfect bar thickness
• Mixing bowls – to combine ingredients efficiently
• Electric mixer or hand whisk – to cream butter and sugars smoothly
• Spatula – for folding in cranberries and chocolate chips gently
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy and consistency
• Cooling rack – to cool bars evenly before frosting

Cranberry Bliss Bars (Coffee-Shop Copycat) — Do This Next

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs & Vanilla

Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

Step 6: Fold in Cranberries & White Chocolate

Gently fold in 1 cup chopped dried cranberries and 1/2 cup white chocolate chips with a spatula, distributing evenly throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Remove from oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack before frosting.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting

In a small bowl, beat together 1/4 cup softened cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 10: Frost & Serve

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to set the frosting before slicing into squares.

Make It Your Way

• Swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Use orange zest in the batter or frosting to add a bright citrus twist.
• Try substituting dried cherries or blueberries for the cranberries for a different berry experience.
• For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting before it sets.
• Make mini bars by pouring batter into a lined muffin tin for portable treats.

Mistakes That Ruin Cranberry Bliss Bars (Coffee-Shop Copycat)

• Overmixing the batter can lead to tough, dense bars instead of soft and tender ones.
• Not fully cooling the bars before frosting causes the frosting to melt and slide off.
• Using dried cranberries that are too large or unchopped can create uneven texture and bites.
• Skipping lemon juice in the frosting results in a less bright, more one-dimensional flavor.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Store your Cranberry Bliss Bars (Coffee-Shop Copycat) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep the frosting fresh and creamy. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting and serving. If you prefer the bars at room temperature, remove them from the fridge 30 minutes before eating to soften the cream cheese frosting.

Handy Q&A

Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried in this recipe?

Fresh cranberries have a higher moisture content and tartness, which can affect the texture and baking time. If using fresh, chop them finely and consider reducing other liquids slightly. Dried cranberries are preferred for the classic texture and sweetness balance in these bars.

Is it possible to make these bars without cream cheese?

The cream cheese frosting is a signature element of Cranberry Bliss Bars (Coffee-Shop Copycat), but if you want to skip it, you can top the bars with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or a dusting of powdered sugar. However, the creamy tang of the frosting really elevates the bars.

How do I prevent the white chocolate chips from melting too much during baking?

White chocolate chips have a lower melting point, so folding them in gently at the last step helps. Baking at a moderate temperature (350°F) and avoiding overbaking will keep the chips intact and prevent them from fully melting into the batter.

Can I make these bars vegan or dairy-free?

To adapt this recipe, use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives. Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). Keep in mind that texture and flavor may vary slightly, but the bars can still be delicious.

Don’t Miss These

• For another cozy dessert that features vibrant fall flavors, try the Cranberry Apple Crisp—a perfect complement to your Cranberry Bliss Bars (Coffee-Shop Copycat).
• Indulge in the creamy richness of the Maple Roasted Fig Cheesecake, a sophisticated dessert that’s sure to impress.
• If you love spiced desserts, the Chai Latte Cheesecake brings warm flavors and a smooth finish to your dessert rotation.

The Last Word

Cranberry Bliss Bars (Coffee-Shop Copycat) are the perfect treat when you want to bring a little coffee shop magic home. The vibrant tartness of cranberries paired with sweet white chocolate and a tangy cream cheese frosting creates a delightful flavor experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Easy to make and even easier to devour, these bars will quickly become a favorite for your gatherings or a special everyday indulgence. Give this recipe a try, and watch as these luscious bars disappear from the plate in no time!

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