Cranberry White Chocolate Cookie Bars: A Holiday Treat to Remember
A Delicious Twist on a Classic
These simple cookie bars combine store-bought sugar cookie dough with tart dried cranberries and a rich white chocolate ganache to create one of the best (and easiest!) holiday baked treats you’ll ever make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be on your way to creating a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to become a new holiday tradition.
What You’ll Need
* 1 (16.3 oz) package of sugar cookie dough, such as Pillsbury
* 1 cup dried cranberries
* 1 cup white chocolate chips
* 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
* 1 tablespoon heavy cream
* Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
How to Make It
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Remove the sugar cookie dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it’s soft and slightly puffed. Roll it out into a 12×8-inch rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 2: Add the Dried Cranberries
Sprinkle the dried cranberries over the center of the cookie dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. You can use as many or as few cranberries as you like, depending on your preference.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Spread the white chocolate chips over the cranberries, leaving a small border around the edges. Dot the top with the softened butter and drizzle with the heavy cream. Fold the 1-inch border over the filling, pressing gently to seal the edges. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 4: Cool and Glaze
Remove the cookie bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into bars and dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Why You’ll Love These Cranberry White Chocolate Cookie Bars
* They’re incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep time and no need for special equipment
* The combination of sweet and tart flavors is a match made in heaven
* They’re perfect for the holidays, but also make a great treat any time of the year
* They’re easily customizable – try adding chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor and texture
FAQs
* Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried? Yes, but be sure to rinse and pat them dry before using.
* Can I use dark or semisweet chocolate chips instead of white chocolate? Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different.
* Can I store these cookie bars at room temperature? Yes, but they’re best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* Can I freeze these cookie bars? Yes, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
