Introduction
Imagine biting into a chewy, sweet, and decadent treat that combines the tangy flavor of cranberries, the tropical essence of coconut, and the creamy richness of white chocolate. These Cranberry Coconut White Chocolate Bars are a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a must-try for any dessert enthusiast.
What makes these bars truly special is the perfect balance of tart cranberries, nutty coconut, and the luxurious sweetness of white chocolate. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that create a symphony of flavors in your mouth. Not only are these bars delicious, but they also hold a special place in holiday traditions, making them a beloved treat for family gatherings and festive celebrations.
From the first step of gathering the ingredients to the final moment when you sink your teeth into a freshly baked Cranberry Coconut White Chocolate Bar, this recipe is a journey of culinary delight. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure that will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with joy.
Get ready to experience a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will elevate your dessert game to a whole new level. These Cranberry Coconut White Chocolate Bars are not just a treat for your taste buds; they are a celebration of the art of baking and the joy of sharing delicious creations with your loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cranberry Coconut White Chocolate Bars are a true delight for any dessert lover. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
The bars are incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
The combination of cranberries, coconut, and white chocolate creates a unique and irresistible flavor profile.
This recipe can be easily customized to suit different dietary preferences, making it a versatile dessert option.
Whether you’re craving a sweet treat for yourself or looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert for a special occasion, these bars are sure to impress.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these delectable Cranberry Coconut White Chocolate Bars!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Wet & Mix-Ins
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups dried cranberries, divided
- 3 cups white chocolate chips, divided
- 1½ cups shredded coconut (sweet or unsweet), divided
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pan & Oven
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
- In a large bowl or mixer, beat softened butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs and vanilla; beat until well combined.
Step 4: Make the Batter
- Gently mix in the dry ingredients just until combined.
- Stir in 1 cup dried cranberries, 1 cup white chocolate chips, and 1 cup shredded coconut.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake 30 minutes, or until lightly golden on top and a toothpick in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Add Topping & Finish
- Immediately sprinkle remaining 2 cups white chocolate chips over hot bars.
- Return to oven for about 2 minutes until chips soften, then remove and spread melted white chocolate evenly.
- Sprinkle remaining 1 cup dried cranberries and ½ cup shredded coconut over the top.
- Cool completely, then lift out using parchment and cut into squares or triangles.
Expert Tips
- Soften butter properly for easy creaming and a tender crumb.
- Do not overmix after adding flour to keep bars soft and chewy.
- Let bars cool fully so the white chocolate topping sets before cutting.
- Use unsweetened coconut if you prefer a less sweet bar.
- Chill briefly before slicing for extra neat edges.
Variations & Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Swap in a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- Citrus Twist: Add 1–2 teaspoons orange zest to the batter.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Extra Tangy: Use orange-flavored dried cranberries if available.
- Lower Sweetness: Reduce white chocolate chips inside the batter and keep full amount on top only.
Storage
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days or refrigerate up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped bars up to 2–3 months; thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Cranberry Coconut White Chocolate Bars
Delightful bars that combine the tangy flavor of cranberries, the tropical essence of coconut, and the creamy richness of white chocolate. These bars are a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making them a crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix well.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix until smooth.
- Stir in the flour and salt until just combined.
- Fold in the dried cranberries, shredded coconut, and white chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Serve and enjoy these Cranberry Coconut White Chocolate Bars!
