Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This is a crucial step for clean cutting later.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air, which helps with the texture of the blondie base.
Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough bars.
Step 6: Fold in the chopped white chocolate chips and 1 cup of dried cranberries. Gently incorporate them so they are evenly distributed.
Step 7: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Do not overbake!
Step 8: Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting. Patience here is key to prevent the frosting from melting.
Step 9: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.
Step 10: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated and smooth. Beat in the vanilla extract and orange zest. The orange zest is vital for that signature Starbucks flavor.
Step 11: Once the bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Step 12: For the white chocolate drizzle, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler.
Step 13: Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the frosted bars. Immediately sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of dried cranberries over the top. For an extra festive touch, you can also sprinkle some orange zest.
Step 14: Refrigerate the Cranberry Bliss Bars {Starbucks Copycat Recipe} for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set before cutting into squares or triangles. These bars are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.