Easy Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars – Bakery-Style Holiday Favorite at Home

If there’s one seasonal dessert that instantly signals cozy sweaters, festive playlists, and warm mugs of coffee, it’s Cranberry Bliss Bars. Known for their chewy blondie base, tangy cream cheese frosting, sweet white chocolate drizzle, and pops of ruby-red cranberries, these bars have become a holiday icon. The problem? Bakery versions can be expensive, overly sweet, or hard to find outside the festive season.

That’s where these Easy Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars come in.

This recipe recreates everything people love about the original—but better. Softer texture, balanced sweetness, bold cranberry flavor, and a thick, luscious frosting layer that doesn’t skimp. Best of all, these bars are simple enough for beginner bakers while still impressive enough for parties, gifting, or dessert tables.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, hosting brunch, or just craving a coffee-shop treat without leaving home, this recipe delivers consistent, bakery-quality results every time.

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Why You’ll Love These Copycat Cranberry Bliss Bars

These bars aren’t just a copy—they’re an upgrade.

First, the blondie base is rich and chewy without being dense. Brown sugar adds depth, while a hint of vanilla keeps the flavor warm and inviting. Second, the cream cheese frosting is smooth, tangy, and perfectly spreadable, balancing the sweetness of the white chocolate drizzle. Finally, dried cranberries add just enough tartness to cut through the richness and keep every bite interesting.

Unlike many desserts that feel heavy, Cranberry Bliss Bars strike a rare balance: indulgent yet light enough to enjoy with coffee or tea. They store well, freeze beautifully, and slice cleanly, making them ideal for entertaining or meal prep desserts.

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Ingredients

Blondie Base

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 0.5 tsp baking soda
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 0.5 tsp nutmeg
• 0.25 tsp cloves (optional)
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 0.75 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 0.75 cup apple cider

Creamy Frosting

• 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1.5 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2–3 tbsp cream or milk

Optional toppings: dried cranberries, melted white chocolate for drizzling

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a separate bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with apple cider, until a smooth batter forms.
6. Spread batter evenly into the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until set and lightly golden around the edges.
8. Cool completely on a wire rack.
9. Beat butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla for the frosting. Add cream gradually until smooth and spreadable.
10. Frost cooled bars evenly. Sprinkle with dried cranberries and drizzle with melted white chocolate.
11. Chill briefly to set, then slice into bars and serve.

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Pro Baking Tips for Perfect Results

• Cool completely before frosting: Warm bars will melt the frosting.
• Use room-temperature butter: Ensures a smooth batter and creamy frosting.
• Don’t overbake: Slightly underbaked bars stay chewy.
• Chill before slicing: Clean edges every time.

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Flavor Variations to Try

• Orange Cranberry Bliss Bars: Add orange zest to the batter and frosting.
• Dark Chocolate Twist: Swap white chocolate drizzle for dark chocolate.
• Nutty Bliss Bars: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the base.
• Extra Tangy: Fold cranberries directly into the batter for bold flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve Cranberry Bliss Bars:

• With hot coffee or lattes
• As part of a holiday dessert platter
• Wrapped individually for edible gifts
• Slightly chilled for a firmer, bakery-style texture

They pair beautifully with warm spices, citrus teas, or a glass of milk.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Room temperature: 2 days in an airtight container
• Refrigerator: Up to 5 days
• Freezer: Freeze unfrosted bars up to 2 months

Frost after thawing for best texture.

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Fun Fact: Why Cranberry Desserts Are Holiday Icons

Cranberries have long been associated with winter celebrations due to their harvest season and vibrant color. Combined with white chocolate and cream cheese, they create the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy—making them a staple in festive baking traditions.