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Cranberry Bliss Bars

These Cranberry Bliss Bars are a delightful holiday treat, combining a buttery shortbread crust, tangy cranberry filling, and a creamy cream cheese topping. Perfect for parties or a special dessert.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Bar, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cups Powdered sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted butter, cold cut into cubes
Cranberry Filling Ingredients
  • 1 14 ounce can Whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 0.5 cups Granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Topping Ingredients
  • 8 ounces Cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 cups (1 stick) Unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups Powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Parchment Paper
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Rubber spatula

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bars out later.
  2. Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Press the crust evenly into the prepared pan.
  4. Make the cranberry filling: In a medium bowl, combine cranberry sauce, granulated sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
  5. Spread the cranberry filling evenly over the crust.
  6. Make the cream cheese topping: In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
  7. Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the cranberry filling.
  8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is lightly golden brown and the crust is set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Notes

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cranberry layer before adding the cream cheese topping. Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.