As the holiday season approaches, the search for the perfect treat to share with family and friends begins. For those who follow a gluten-free diet, finding desserts that are both delicious and safe to eat can be a challenge. Enter the Gluten-Free Cranberry Bliss Bars—a festive, flavorful, and gluten-free alternative to traditional holiday desserts. These bars are a delightful combination of tart cranberries, sweet white chocolate, and a hint of orange, all layered on a soft, chewy blondie base. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy, these bars are sure to impress.
Cranberry Bliss Bars are a popular holiday treat originally made famous by a well-known coffee chain. They consist of a blondie base topped with a cream cheese frosting, dried cranberries, and a drizzle of white chocolate. The combination of flavors and textures makes them a favorite during the holiday season. However, the traditional recipe contains gluten, which can be problematic for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. By making a few simple substitutions, you can create a gluten-free version that is just as delicious and festive.
To make gluten-free cranberry bliss bars, you'll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free flour blend | 1 ½ cups |
| Baking powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | ½ cup |
| Brown sugar | ¾ cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried cranberries | ½ cup |
| White chocolate chips | ½ cup |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 4 ounces |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
| Orange zest | 1 teaspoon |
Making gluten-free cranberry bliss bars is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to create a batch of these delightful holiday treats:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the blondie base to cool completely before adding the frosting.
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined. Stir in the orange zest. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled blondie base.
Sprinkle additional dried cranberries over the frosting. Melt the remaining white chocolate chips and drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the bars. Allow the chocolate to set before cutting the bars into squares.
Yes, you can use any gluten-free flour blend that you prefer. Just make sure it is a 1:1 substitute for all-purpose flour. Almond flour or oat flour can also be used, but the texture of the bars may be slightly different.
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter. For the cream cheese frosting, use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. Be sure to check that your white chocolate chips are also dairy-free if needed.
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Yes, you can add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the blondie base for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to check that the nuts are gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.
Gluten-Free Cranberry Bliss Bars are a wonderful addition to any holiday dessert table. They are easy to make, packed with festive flavors, and perfect for those who need to avoid gluten. With their soft blondie base, creamy frosting, and tangy cranberry topping, these bars are sure to become a holiday favorite. Whether you're baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these bars are a delicious way to celebrate the season. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a gluten-free holiday treat that everyone will love!
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