If you have a soft spot for everything cinnamon and sweet breakfast treats, then the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. These bars capture the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but with a simpler, fuss-free approach that delivers a perfectly tender, swirled cake topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Every bite melts in your mouth, blending buttery cinnamon sugar layers with a cloud of sweet, tangy frosting. It’s pure bliss, and I can’t wait to share with you how easy and rewarding it is to make these at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe uses a handful of pantry staples that come together beautifully. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the tender crumb, rich cinnamon swirls, and creamy frosting that make these bars unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture, essential for both the batter and the cinnamon layer.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps achieve a light, fluffy texture.
- Brown sugar: Adds depth of flavor and a subtle molasses note in the cinnamon layer.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together while lending structure.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives the bars their tender yet sturdy texture.
- Baking powder: Helps the bars rise to a perfect height and fluffiness.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the flavor.
- Milk: Keeps the batter moist and softens the crumb.
- Ground cinnamon: Delivers the signature cinnamon swirl.
- Cream cheese: Key for a rich, tangy frosting that perfectly crowns the bars.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spreadable consistency.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. Cream together ½ cup softened unsalted butter and ½ cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy; this creates a luscious base for your batter. Next, whisk in two large eggs and a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until everything is beautifully combined—this mixture smells heavenly already! In another bowl, sift together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, alternating with ¼ cup milk, until just blended. Don’t overmix—the goal is a tender, soft texture in the finished bars.
Step 2: Layer the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
Spread half of your batter evenly into the prepared pan to form a smooth base layer. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, and ¼ cup melted unsalted butter. This cinnamon sugar concoction will give the bars that dream-like swirl of spice and sweetness. Spoon this mixture evenly over the batter. Then, dollop the remaining batter on top and use a knife to gently swirl the batter and cinnamon sugar together, creating a gorgeous marbled effect that promises delightful bites of cinnamon in every slice.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Bake the pan for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma already tells you it’s going to be incredible! Once baked, transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow the bars to cool completely—this step is key for the frosting to spread smoothly without melting into the bars.
Step 4: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars cool, prepare the frosting by beating together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup softened unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Then add 1½ cups powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, beating it all further until silky and luscious. Adjust the consistency by mixing in 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk until your frosting is thick but spreadable. Spread this dreamy cream cheese topping evenly over the cooled bars for that classic cinnamon roll finish.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these bars, consider sprinkling a light dusting of ground cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce right before serving. Toasted chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the creamy texture. Fresh berries can also bring a lovely brightness if you prefer a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Side Dishes
These bars stand beautifully on their own as a sweet treat with coffee or tea, but they also partner wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Pairing them with a rich latte or a hot chai amplifies those warm cinnamon notes even further.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice bars into neat squares and arrange them on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh fruits and nuts for a charming brunch spread. Alternatively, serving individual bars in pretty cupcake liners makes for easy bite-sized portions at a party or gathering. For a whimsical touch, top each square with a tiny cinnamon stick or a sprig of mint as a garnish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, cover the bars tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They will keep well at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days, perfect if you like to have a sweet treat ready in the fridge.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars either frosted or unfrosted. If freezing unfrosted, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then spread the frosting fresh before serving. This way, you maintain the luscious texture of the frosting while having the bars ready to enjoy anytime you crave Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe.
Reheating
Warm leftover bars slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften the cream cheese frosting and bring back that just-baked feel. Avoid overheating so the frosting doesn’t melt too much. Warm bars paired with a warm beverage truly feel like a cozy hug on chilly mornings.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the frosting?
Yes, but keep in mind that full-fat cream cheese gives the frosting a richer, creamier texture. Low-fat versions might result in a slightly less smooth consistency, but it will still taste delicious.
Is it possible to make the bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free. The texture may be slightly different but still tasty.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Butter is essential for the rich flavor and tender crumb in this recipe. While you can experiment with oil, it might alter the texture and taste. If you must substitute, use a mild-flavored oil like canola, but expect a slight change.
How long do these bars last once frosted?
Once frosted, the bars keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them as described above to keep them fresh and flavorful.
What’s the best way to get clean swirls in the cinnamon layer?
Use a butter knife or a skewer for swirling and only swirl gently so the layers don’t completely blend. This ensures beautiful cinnamon ribbons through the bars that are both eye-catching and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe that combines the nostalgic warmth of a cinnamon roll with the ease of classic bar baking. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, dessert, or a crowd-pleasing treat, these bars promise joy in every bite. Give them a try—you’re going to love how simple ingredients and a little swirl of cinnamon create a moment of pure bliss!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the convenience of bar form. Soft, moist batter layered with a cinnamon-sugar swirl and topped with creamy cream cheese frosting makes these bars perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime indulgence.
Ingredients
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 (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prepare for baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which creates a smooth base for the batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, ensuring an even flavor throughout the batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together to distribute the leavening agents evenly.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the bars tough.
- Layer Batter: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the bottom layer of the bars.
- Prepare and Add Cinnamon Swirl: Mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon with the melted butter, then spoon this cinnamon-sugar mixture over the first layer of batter to infuse the middle layer with classic cinnamon roll flavor.
- Add Remaining Batter and Swirl: Spread the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon layer and use a knife to gently swirl the layers together to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the bars are fully cooked.
- Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before applying the frosting to prevent melting.
- Make Frosting: Beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and adjust the consistency with 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk as needed.
- Frost Bars and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into 16 squares and serve to enjoy this delicious cinnamon roll flavored dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.
- You can store the frosted bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and cream cheese with non-dairy alternatives.
- Swirling the cinnamon mixture gently ensures a pretty marbled effect without mixing it entirely into the batter.
- Use room temperature ingredients for best mixing results.
