Introduction: A Festive Treat
As the holiday season approaches, our kitchens fill with scents of warmth and cheer. Cranberry White Chocolate Bars bring a burst of tart cranberries paired with creamy white chocolate, making them a delightful treat for both adults and kids alike. These bars are not only delicious but also easy to make, ideal for potlucks, holiday parties, or a simple family dessert.
Ingredients
Let’s start with the essentials. For these bars, you’ll need readily available ingredients. Here’s a quick list:
- Unsalted Butter – 1 cup, softened
- Brown Sugar – 1 cup, packed
- Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup
- Large Eggs – 2
- Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups
- Baking Powder – 1/2 tsp
- Salt – 1/2 tsp
- Dried Cranberries – 1 cup
- White Chocolate Chips – 1 cup
Directions & Preparation Method
Step 1: Preparing the Baking Dish and Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make it easy to lift the bars out after baking.
Step 2: Mixing the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
- Using a hand or stand mixer, cream the mixture until it turns light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Combining the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add this dry mixture into the bowl of wet ingredients.
- Mix until the flour mixture is just combined—avoid over-mixing to keep the bars soft and tender.
Step 4: Adding Cranberries and White Chocolate
- Carefully fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips. These will add a beautiful flavor and texture to the bars.
Step 5: Baking the Bars
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for golden-brown edges and a toothpick inserted into the center coming out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing them into 12 pieces.
FAQs
Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Dried?
While dried cranberries provide a concentrated sweetness, fresh cranberries can be used, though they will add extra tartness and moisture. If using fresh cranberries, consider increasing the sugar slightly to balance the flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store These Bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about a week.
Can I Substitute White Chocolate Chips with Dark Chocolate?
Yes, you can use dark or milk chocolate chips instead, but note that this will alter the flavor profile. White chocolate pairs exceptionally well with cranberries because of its mild sweetness.
Conclusion
These Cranberry White Chocolate Bars capture the festive flavors of the season in each bite. With a buttery base, sweet white chocolate, and tangy cranberries, they’re a crowd-pleaser and a simple go-to dessert for the holidays. Make a batch, and they’re sure to disappear quickly from the dessert table!