Description
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a delightful dessert combining the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in easy-to-make bar form. Featuring a soft, buttery base swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with creamy, smooth cream cheese frosting, these bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a comforting cinnamon twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Batter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup milk
Cinnamon Swirl
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make the Base Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt to ensure even distribution.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with ¼ cup milk. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup packed brown sugar and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon. Stir in ¼ cup melted unsalted butter until the mixture is well blended.
- Layer the Batter and Swirl: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the base layer. Then, add the remaining batter evenly on top. Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack to prepare for frosting.
- Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat together 4 ounces softened cream cheese and ¼ cup softened unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Add 1½ cups powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing well to combine. Gradually add 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Bars: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars using a spatula or knife for a smooth finish.
- Serve: Cut the bars into squares and serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator for later enjoyment.
Notes
- Ensure the bars are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- You can adjust the cinnamon sugar to taste for a stronger or milder cinnamon flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
- If desired, warm bars slightly before serving for a soft, freshly-baked texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cinnamon roll bars, cinnamon bliss bars, cream cheese frosting bars, cinnamon dessert bars, easy baked desserts
