CRANBERRY BLISS BARS

 I don't drink coffee and only go to Starbucks when I am buying gift cards for my CO grandkids (who do go to Starbucks for treats). Because of this, I was not familiar with Cranberry Bliss Bars when Friend Brooke, a new contributor to the Cafe Treats, indicated she would be bringing them yesterday for the Cafe Treats at church. I also didn't notice that Starbucks frosts their bars with cream cheese, but Brooke just decided to omit that step.

All I knew were they looked so tempting and people were taking one bite and saying how delicious they were. Before they were all gone, I sneaked one and put aside to enjoy later. 

Later I realized why I was hearing so many raves about the bars. They were so good. I was sorry I only saved one. I guess I will just have to make some myself at home to enjoy. (I have canasta next time, so I just might have to try them then. I know my canasta friends would enjoy them, too, especially if I substitute my Sweet Complete Brown sugar.)

PRINT RECIPE.

CRANBERRY BLISS BARS

1        cup butter (2 sticks), melted

1-1/2 cups brown sugar

2        eggs, room temperature

1         teaspoon vanilla extract

2        cups flour

1         teaspoon baking powder

1/2     teaspoon salt

1         cup white chocolate chips

3/4    cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9 x 13 - inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the melted butter  and brown sugar until combined. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla until smooth.

Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fold in the white chocolate chips and cranberries.

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 - 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

Separate layers with wax paper and store in the refrigerator.