Cranberrry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars are a delicious and decadent dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of chocolate chips and cream cheese. These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a sweet treat.

History

The exact origins of Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars are unknown, but they are believed to have been created as a twist on traditional cheesecake bars. The combination of cranberries and chocolate chips adds a unique flavor profile to this classic dessert.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 cups cake flour
1 and 0.5 cups rolled oats
2 tsp grated orange zest
12 oz (340 g) semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup dried cranberries
8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
1 can sweetened condensed milk

How to prepare

In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until creamy.
Beat in the flour, oats, and orange peel until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Stir in the chocolate chips and cranberries, reserving 2 cups for later use.
Press the remaining mixture onto the bottom of a greased baking pan.
Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the hot crust.
Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture on top.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes.
Allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack.

Variations

Substitute dried cherries or blueberries for the cranberries.
Use white chocolate chips instead of semisweet chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use room temperature butter and cream cheese for a smooth and creamy texture.

- Press the oat mixture firmly into the baking pan to create a solid crust.

- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares for clean and neat slices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the cream cheese until smooth ensures a creamy and lump-free filling.

- Gradually adding the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese helps to create a smooth and silky texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Gluten-free flour can be used in place of cake flour for a gluten-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Sprinkle powdered sugar on top of the bars before serving for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delicious dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars are a good source of vitamin A and calcium.

Alergens

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars contain dairy (butter, cream cheese) and wheat (flour, oats) allergens.

Summary

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars are a delicious dessert option that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides some essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars are a delightful dessert option that combines the flavors of cranberries, chocolate chips, and cream cheese in a delicious and easy-to-make bar. Enjoy these bars as a sweet treat for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning how to cook from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook and had a knack for creating delicious treats that always left us wanting more.

One day, I was helping my grandmother in the kitchen as she prepared a special dessert for a family gathering. As she sifted flour and mixed ingredients together, I watched in awe at how effortlessly she worked her magic. I asked her how she learned to make such amazing dishes, and she smiled and told me that she had learned from her own grandmother, who had passed down recipes through the generations.

As we chatted and worked side by side, my grandmother suddenly pulled out a faded recipe card from her recipe box. She explained that it was a recipe for Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars that she had received from a friend many years ago. She said that it was a family favorite and always a hit at parties and potlucks.

I eagerly watched as my grandmother carefully measured out the ingredients and mixed them together to create the batter. The scent of cranberries and chocolate filled the air, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. As the bars baked in the oven, my grandmother and I shared stories and laughed together, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

When the bars were finally done, my grandmother removed them from the oven and let them cool on the counter. The sweet and tangy aroma of cranberries mixed with the rich chocolate and creamy cheese was irresistible. I took a bite of the first bar and instantly fell in love with the flavors that danced on my tongue.

From that day on, I knew that I had to learn how to make these Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars on my own. I asked my grandmother to teach me the recipe, and she happily obliged. We spent hours in the kitchen together, perfecting the technique and adjusting the ingredients until we had created a masterpiece that rivaled even my grandmother's original creation.

As the years passed, I continued to make Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars for special occasions and family gatherings. The recipe became a beloved tradition in our family, with everyone eagerly anticipating the sweet and tangy bars that I would bring to each event.

I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who all raved about the unique combination of flavors and the decadent texture of the bars. They begged me to teach them how to make the recipe, and soon, Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars became a staple in households all across our small town.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the comforting scent of cranberries and chocolate, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and traditions that this recipe has brought into my life. Each time I make a batch of Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars, I am reminded of my grandmother and the joy that cooking and sharing delicious food can bring.

So as I pass down this recipe to future generations, I hope that they will cherish it as much as I have and create their own memories and traditions around the delicious flavors of these Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cheese Bars. Cooking is more than just following a recipe - it's about creating moments that will last a lifetime.