Name: Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-492947H58M15S
Total time: PT-492947H58M15S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1½ cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2-3 tablespoons milk

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

These Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars capture all the warmth and sweetness of a classic cinnamon roll in an easy-to-make bar form. With a tender, buttery base swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, they’re perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack.

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

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
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
1½ cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
2-3 tablespoons milk (for frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the ½ cup softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan.
Step 3: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted ¼ cup butter until well combined. Drop spoonfuls of this cinnamon-sugar mixture over the base batter, then spread the remaining batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter for a marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 5: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and ¼ cup softened butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is spreadable.
Step 6: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, use full-fat cream cheese and real vanilla extract in the frosting.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for added texture.
If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the powdered sugar in the frosting slightly.
Use a toothpick to test doneness carefully to avoid overbaking and drying out the bars.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, let them come to room temperature for the best taste. Leftover bars can be warmed briefly in the microwave to soften the frosting.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bars a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just add the frosting before serving or keep the frosted bars refrigerated and bring them to room temperature before enjoying.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars?

Yes, freeze the unfrosted bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before frosting and serving for best results.