Cranberry Bliss Bars (Starbucks Copycat)

Update : December 15, 2025

Delicious homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars inspired by Starbucks recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful treat that captures the flavors of the holiday season. This Starbucks copycat recipe lets you enjoy this popular dessert in the comfort of your own home. With a perfect blend of sweet and tart, these bars are a great addition to any gathering or simply for a cozy night in. Who wouldn’t want a sweet snack topped with creamy frosting and a sprinkle of cranberries?

How to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars

Ingredients

For the Blondie:

1½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour (7.5oz, 213g)
1 teaspoon baking powder (3g)
½ teaspoon table salt (3g)
12 tablespoons unsalted butter (6oz, 170g)
1½ cups packed light brown sugar (10.5 oz, 298g)
2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest (3g)
¾ cup dried cranberries (loosely packed 3.5oz, 100g)
1⅓ cups white chocolate (chopped or white chocolate chips, 8oz, 227g)

For the Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese (softened, 227g)
1½ cups confectioners’ sugar (sifted, 6oz, 170g)
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest (3g)

For the Topping:

½ cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped (loosely packed 2.3oz, 65g)
⅔ cup white chocolate (melted, 4oz, 113g)

Directions

For the Blondie:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, melt the butter and mix with brown sugar until combined.
Add the eggs, vanilla, and orange zest to the butter mixture, then mix well.
Gradually stir in the flour mixture, then fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let it cool completely before adding the frosting.

For the Frosting:

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, mixing well.
Stir in the vanilla, orange juice, and orange zest until well combined.

For the Topping:

Spread the frosting over the cooled blondie bars.
Sprinkle chopped dried cranberries on top.
Drizzle with melted white chocolate.

How to Serve Cranberry Bliss Bars

Cut the bars into squares or rectangles for easy serving. They are perfect as an afternoon snack or as a sweet ending to your meal. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.

How to Store Cranberry Bliss Bars

Store the leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 5-7 days. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Cranberry Bliss Bars

Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened for a smoother frosting.
Don’t overmix the blondie batter; otherwise, it might become tough.
Feel free to adjust the amount of cranberries based on your preference.

Variation

You can add nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch. For a chocolate twist, try mixing in some chocolate chips or drizzling dark chocolate on top instead of white chocolate.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first.

2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

3. How can I make the frosting sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter frosting, simply add more confectioners’ sugar until you reach your desired sweetness.