Description
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a delightful dessert bar that captures the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make baked treat. Featuring a tender buttery batter layered with a cinnamon-sugar swirl, and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, these bars are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime dessert cravings strike.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bars
- 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
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the 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 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.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps to incorporate air and create a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, blending well to fully combine all wet ingredients.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter and keep it tender.
- Layer the Batter: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the first layer of the bars.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Swirl: Mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon with the melted butter, then evenly spoon this cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter layer to create the signature swirl flavor.
- Top with Remaining Batter and Swirl: Spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer and use a knife to gently swirl the layers together, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bars are fully cooked.
- Cool: Remove the bars from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the frosting to prevent melting.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then adjust the consistency with 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into 16 squares and serve for a delicious cinnamon roll-inspired treat.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter for the frosting are softened to room temperature for a smooth consistency.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the cream cheese glaze.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
