Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour (1 3/4 cups)
- Light Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed)
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened)
- Large Eggs (2)
- Orange Zest (1 tablespoon)
- Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened)
- Powdered Sugar (2 cups)
- Dried Cranberries (1 cup, divided)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
- Step 2: Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in 1/2 cup of the dried cranberries. 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. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 3: Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of softened butter (if using) until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and free of lumps.
- Step 4: Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For a true copycat look, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of dried cranberries over the frosting.
- Step 5: Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the frosting to set firmly before slicing them into squares or triangles. For extra decoration, you may optionally drizzle the chilled bars with melted white chocolate before serving.
Notes
- Due to the cream cheese frosting, always store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they will keep well for about five days.
- Do not attempt to heat the bars; for the best texture, serve them straight from the fridge or allow them to stand at room temperature for 15 minutes to slightly soften the base.
- For a true copycat aesthetic, slice the fully chilled bars diagonally into triangles rather than squares, and finish with a light drizzle of melted white chocolate.
- To maximize the citrus flavor, rub the fresh orange zest directly into the brown sugar with your fingertips before adding the softened butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American