Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars (Easy Recipe): The Ultimate Copycat You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of those decadent Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars that show up around the holidays, you’re in for a treat—literally. This easy copycat recipe brings all the joy of the original right into your kitchen. Moist, chewy blondie-style bars layered with tangy cream cheese frosting, dotted with sweet-tart dried cranberries, and drizzled with melted white chocolate—this is the perfect holiday dessert (or, let’s be honest, any time-of-year indulgence).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is designed for anyone who:

• Craves the seasonal magic of Starbucks’ holiday treats.

• Loves a good make-ahead dessert for potlucks, parties, or gifts.

• Wants a show-stopping yet easy-to-make treat.

• Enjoys festive flavor combos like orange zest, cranberry, and white chocolate.

Best of all? This version is made with simple pantry staples, comes together in under an hour, and tastes even better than the original. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these festive bars:

Bars:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly

• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed

• 1 large egg

• ¾ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup dried cranberries

• ½ cup white chocolate chips

Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1⅓ cups powdered sugar

• ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• Milk, as needed to thin

• ⅛ teaspoon finely grated orange zest (optional but highly recommended)

Topping:

• ¼ cup white chocolate chips, melted

• ¼ cup dried cranberries

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 8×11 baking pan

• Aluminum foil

• Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 medium)

• Hand or stand mixer

• Rubber spatula

• Whisk

• Wire rack

• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for melting white chocolate)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your 8×11 pan with foil and lightly grease it—this makes for super easy removal and cleanup.

2. Mix the Blondie Base

In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is glossy and cohesive, about 1 minute. Add the egg and vanilla extract, whisk again until combined.

In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula until just combined. Add dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, stirring gently to incorporate.

3. Bake

Transfer the batter to your prepared pan, spreading it evenly (a moistened hand helps here!). Bake for 18–22 minutes until just set—do not overbake. A toothpick should come out clean, and the top will look puffed but light in color. Cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

4. Make the Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and orange zest (if using), beating until fluffy. Thin with a touch of milk if needed for spreadability.

5. Assemble the Bliss

Spread the cooled bars with frosting. Sprinkle dried cranberries evenly over the top. Drizzle with melted white chocolate. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for easier slicing.

Storage Tips

• Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Fridge: Extend shelf life to 5 days when refrigerated.

• Freezer: Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Tips & Variations

 Pro Tips:

• Chill before slicing: This firms the frosting and gives you those perfect coffee shop-style edges.

• Moisten your hands: When pressing the batter into the pan, a damp palm prevents sticking.

• Don’t skip the orange zest: It adds a subtle brightness that enhances the cranberry and white chocolate.

Variations:

• Add nuts: A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans can add texture.

• Make it gluten-free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

• Vegan option: Use plant-based butter, vegan white chocolate, and dairy-free cream cheese.

• Low sugar version: Sub in monk fruit or coconut sugar for the brown sugar (note: texture and flavor will differ).

Suggested Pairings

Cranberry Bliss Bars pair beautifully with:

• A tall mug of chai tea latte or espresso.

• A glass of Prosecco for a festive touch.

• A spiced hot chocolate or even a creamy eggnog for holiday feels.

Serve them on a dessert tray alongside gingerbread cookies and peppermint bark for a full winter wonderland experience!

FAQ: Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13 pan and adjust the baking time to around 25–28 minutes.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries work best here for their chewy texture. Fresh cranberries release too much moisture.

What’s the best way to melt white chocolate?

Use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts (15–20 seconds), stirring between intervals. White chocolate burns easily, so go slow!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make a day in advance and store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party, creating homemade gifts, or just craving a cozy coffeehouse treat, these Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars are a total crowd-pleaser. With their balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements, they hit all the right notes—and they’re surprisingly simple to whip up at home.

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Happy baking, and may your days be blissfully delicious!