Description
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars combine all the delightful flavors of a classic cinnamon roll into an easy-to-make, bar-shaped treat. With a tender, buttery cake base swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, these bars are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack any time of day.
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 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: 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, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help create a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Spread Batter: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan to create the base layer.
- Add Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon with melted butter, then spoon this mixture over the batter base, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Remaining Batter and Swirl: Spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer, then use a knife to gently swirl the layers, creating a marbled cinnamon effect.
- Bake: Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting, to ensure the frosting sets properly.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy. Adjust the consistency with 2-3 tablespoons of milk as needed.
- Frost Bars and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bars tender.
- Swirling the cinnamon mixture gently aids in a beautiful marbled effect.
- Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute with dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives.
