Starbucks Copycat With Cream Cheese And Dried Cranberries

These Starbucks-inspired bars are soft, chewy, and full of festive flavors. I love how the buttery base is studded with dried cranberries and white chocolate, then topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, more cranberries, and a drizzle of melted white chocolate. They taste just like the coffee shop favorite but even fresher when I make them at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both indulgent and comforting. The spiced blondie-style base pairs perfectly with the creamy frosting, and the cranberries give a tart, chewy contrast that balances the sweetness. I also love that I can make these ahead of time, and they’re always a hit at holiday gatherings or as a treat with coffee.

Ingredients

FOR THE BARS
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup white chocolate chips
¾ cup dried cranberries

FOR THE FROSTING
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon orange zest (optional)
½ cup dried cranberries, for topping
½ cup melted white chocolate, for drizzling

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
3. I add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. In another bowl, I combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and ginger.
5. I gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. I stir in the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries.
7. I spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
8. I let the bars cool completely before frosting.
9. To make the frosting, I beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
10. I add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest, mixing until creamy.
11. I spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
12. I sprinkle dried cranberries on top and drizzle with melted white chocolate.
13. I chill the bars for at least 30 minutes before cutting them into squares or triangles.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 bars.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: about 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra crunch. I’ve also swapped dried cranberries with dried cherries for a slightly different flavor. If I want a stronger citrus note, I add more orange zest to the frosting or even a splash of orange juice. For a lighter option, I use half the amount of frosting and let the cranberry and spice flavors shine through more.

Storage/Reheating

I keep these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to serve, I thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. I don’t reheat them, since they’re best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, I often make them a day in advance since they taste even better after chilling overnight.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Yes, but it will change the flavor. I prefer white chocolate for its sweetness, but dark chocolate gives a richer contrast.

Do I need to use orange zest in the frosting?

No, it’s optional. I like it because it brightens the flavors, but the bars taste delicious without it.

How do I keep the bars from drying out?

I store them in an airtight container in the fridge, which keeps them moist and fresh.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I replace the all-purpose flour with a good gluten-free flour blend.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

I can cut back slightly on the brown sugar, but the texture may change. I prefer keeping the sugar as written for the classic chewy base.

Can I bake these in a smaller pan for thicker bars?

Yes, I use a smaller pan like 8×8, but I extend the baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts taste great in both the bars and as a topping.

How do I get clean slices?

I chill the bars before slicing and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts.

Do these taste exactly like Starbucks?

They’re very close, but I think mine taste fresher and have a more balanced sweetness.

Conclusion

I love how these Starbucks Copycat Bars with Cream Cheese and Dried Cranberries turn out every time soft, spiced, and perfectly frosted. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet white chocolate, and creamy frosting makes them irresistible. Whether I’m making them for the holidays or just to enjoy with coffee at home, they always feel special and satisfying.

Print