Better Than Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Protein Bark

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if you love starbucks cranberry bliss bars, just wait until you try this better-for-you, higher-protein version in bark form, omg!

it has all of the nostalgic holiday flavors you crave, but with way cleaner ingredients, less sugar, and a totally addictive soft–chewy texture.

this is the kind of treat you end up keeping in the freezer all season long.

taste + texture

this cranberry bliss bark tastes like a festive mix of creamy white chocolate, tart cranberries, sweet vanilla, and the slightest hint of almond.

the base is soft, chewy, and cookie-dough–like thanks to the almond flour, oat flour, and yogurt.

then you get that snap of white chocolate on top paired with extra cranberries for the perfect little bursts of tang.

it’s rich without being heavy, sweet without being overly sugary, and just decadent enough to feel like a true holiday dessert.

what this recipe is inspired by

this is my upgraded spin on the iconic starbucks cranberry bliss bars, but instead of a dense blondie base loaded with sugar and butter, we’re using a protein-packed dough that comes together in the food processor.

the flavors are absolutely reminiscent of the original with vanilla, almond extract, white chocolate, cranberries, but this version feels lighter, cleaner, and much more nourishing.

it’s everything you love about the original, transformed into a better-for-you bark that you can enjoy straight from the fridge or freezer.

the protein addition

the base gets an amazing texture boost from vanilla protein powder, and it also adds legit staying power.

instead of a bar that gives you a sugar crash, you get a holiday treat that’s satisfying, energizing, and perfect for mid-day snacking, dessert, or even a sweet breakfast bite.

the protein balances out the natural carbs from the maple syrup and cranberries so you don’t get that heavy feeling afterward.

substitution options

one of the best parts about this recipe is how customizable it is:

• protein powder: any vanilla protein works: whey, pea, brown rice, or a blend. just add milk slowly since different proteins absorb differently.
• yogurt: use dairy-free, greek, coconut, almond, anything you love. greek will give you extra protein and a slightly firmer base.
• sweetener: maple syrup adds the best texture, but honey works too.
• cranberries: unsweetened are ideal, but lightly sweetened also works. you can even use chopped dried cherries.
• white chocolate: use vegan, sugar-free, or regular white chocolate, whatever fits your vibe.

storage

this bark stores beautifully, which is another reason it’s perfect for the holidays.

• keep it in the fridge up to 1 week for a soft, chewy texture.
• store it in the freezer up to 3 months for a firmer, candy-bar style bite.

just slice or break into pieces and keep them in an airtight container, it’s the easiest holiday dessert to grab whenever the craving hits.

if you love Better Than Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Protein Bark, then try these other recipes from upbeetandkaleingitblog!

Amazing Healthier and Gluten-Free Apple Pie (No Refined Sugar!)

Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Cookies with Caramelized Apples

Lightened Up Gluten Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Obsession-Worthy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Banana Bread

No Bake Healthy Autumn Bliss Cheesecake

Healthier Vanilla Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting and Miso Caramel (Gluten-Free!)

Gluten-Free Giant Banana Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Cookies

YiaYia’s Loukomades (But Make Them Gluten-Free)!

Healthy Vanilla Bean Frozen Greek Yogurt with Caramelized Bananas

Healthy Pumpkin Spice Greek Yogurt Pancakes

Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Cookies with Caramelized Apples

Unbelievably Healthy Pumpkin Protein Bread (14g Protein!)

are you going to make Better Than Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Protein Bark!?

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