Description
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars combine the sweet, classic flavors of cinnamon rolls into an easy-to-make bar form. Layered with cinnamon sugar swirls and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, these bars are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
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 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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream ½ cup softened unsalted butter with ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which ensures a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, mixing until fully combined for flavor and moisture.
- Whisk 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 of leavening and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with ¼ cup milk, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Spread Batter – First Layer: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Swirl: Combine ½ cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, and ¼ cup melted butter in a small bowl, then spoon this mixture evenly over the batter.
- Top with Remaining Batter and Swirl: Spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer, then swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before applying frosting to prevent melting.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat together 4 ounces softened cream cheese and ¼ cup softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 1½ cups powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, adjusting consistency with 2 to 3 tablespoons milk.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars, cut into 16 squares, and serve.
Notes
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened for smooth frosting.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bars tender.
- Use a sharp knife for swirling to avoid mixing layers too much.
- Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
