Description
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars combine the sweet, spicy flavors of classic cinnamon rolls into an easy-to-make, bar-style dessert. Featuring a soft, buttery cake base swirled with a cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, these bars are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime a sweet treat is needed.
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 Sugar Filling
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese 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 consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract, mixing until well combined to incorporate moisture and flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the rising agent and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the bars.
- Layer Batter: Spread half of the prepared batter evenly into the greased baking pan to form the base layer.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Filling: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon with the melted butter. Spoon this mixture evenly over the base layer to create the characteristic cinnamon swirl flavor.
- Top with Remaining Batter and Swirl: Dollop the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer and use a knife to gently swirl it into the filling, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack to set before frosting, preventing the frosting from melting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then add milk a tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into 16 squares and serve for a delicious treat.
Notes
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened for easy mixing and smooth texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bars tender.
- Adjust milk in the frosting to achieve your preferred consistency—thicker for spreading or thinner for drizzling.
- Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped nuts or drizzle caramel sauce on top of the frosting.
