Ingredients
Scale
For the Blondie Base:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 4 ounces white chocolate, melted
- Zest of 1 orange (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Blondie Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the blondie cool completely in the pan.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Slowly add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Assemble the Bars:
- Once the blondie base has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the dried cranberries evenly across the frosting, pressing them lightly to adhere.
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate in a zigzag pattern over the top. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle with orange zest.
4. Cut and Serve:
- Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares or triangles. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Baking Time: 25 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 16-20 bars