Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Enjoy the flavors of cinnamon rolls without the lengthy preparation and rising times.
- Perfect for Sharing: These bars are ideal for potlucks, brunches, or as a sweet snack to share with friends and family.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with add-ins like nuts or fruit to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Base Layer:
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Salt
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Large egg
- Vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Brown sugar, packed
- Ground cinnamon
- All-purpose flour
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars.
- Cut into squares and enjoy!
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Directions
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Prepare the Base Layer:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set the remaining dough aside for the topping. Refrigerate the pan while preparing the filling.
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Make the Cinnamon Filling:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour until well combined, forming a thick paste.
- Remove the pan from the refrigerator and spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the base layer.
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Add the Top Layer:
- Crumble the remaining dough over the cinnamon filling, leaving some gaps for a swirled effect
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly darker. The center may still be a bit soft but will set as it cools.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
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Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes
- Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on low speed until the sugar is incorporated, then increase to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy.
- If the frosting is too thick, add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until reaching the desired consistency
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars.
- Cut into squares and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 24 bars
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour (including cooling time)
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon filling before adding the top layer for added crunch and flavor.
- Apple Cinnamon: Incorporate finely diced apples into the cinnamon filling for a fruity twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: For a warm treat, microwave individual bars for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
What are Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars?
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are dessert bars that combine the flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls with the convenience of bar cookies. They feature a buttery base, a cinnamon-sugar filling, and cream cheese frosting
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container, and frost them the day you plan to serve for optimal freshness.
Can I use store-bought frosting?
While homemade cream cheese frosting provides the best flavor, you can use store-bought cream cheese frosting in a pinch.
How do I prevent the base from becoming soggy?
Ensure the bars are baked until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Allow them to cool completely before frosting to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I add raisins to the filling?
Yes, adding raisins or other
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are the ultimate dessert bars, combining the cozy, spiced flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a bar. Featuring a buttery base, a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and a smooth cream cheese frosting, these irresistible treats are perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Base Layer:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
Prepare the Base Layer:
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients – Add softened butter, egg, and vanilla. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Press into Pan – Spread two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Make the Cinnamon Filling:
- Mix Ingredients – In a medium bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour into a thick paste.
- Spread Over Base – Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the chilled dough layer.
Add the Top Layer & Bake:
- Crumble Remaining Dough – Sprinkle the reserved dough over the cinnamon filling, leaving some gaps for a swirled effect.
- Bake – Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely before frosting.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat Cream Cheese & Butter – In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth (about 2 minutes).
- Add Sugar & Vanilla – Mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. If needed, add milk/cream for a spreadable consistency.
- Frost & Serve – Spread frosting over cooled bars, cut into squares, and enjoy!
Notes
- Variations: Add chopped pecans, diced apples, or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze wrapped bars for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
