These Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars bring together the irresistible flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in a convenient bar form. The base is buttery and tender, topped with a luscious cream cheese cinnamon filling and finished with a crumbly, golden streusel. A drizzle of sweet glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making these bars look as delightful as they taste.
Perfect for sharing at brunches, parties, or just a cozy treat at home, these bars combine comfort and elegance effortlessly. They’re ideal for cinnamon lovers seeking a quick, satisfying dessert that melts in your mouth with every bite.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup brown sugar, packed
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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2 tablespoons milk
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until a crumbly dough forms.
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Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base layer.
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In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and ground cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
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Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough layer in the pan.
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Crumble the remaining dough evenly over the cream cheese layer to create a streusel topping.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
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Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to make a glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars before slicing.
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Cut into squares and serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings
Why Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Are So Popular
What makes these bars stand out is their ability to capture the essence of a cinnamon roll without the fuss of yeast dough and long proofing times. They appeal to both seasoned bakers and kitchen beginners because they use common baking ingredients and techniques, yet result in an impressively indulgent dessert. The cream cheese filling adds a luscious tang and velvety texture, elevating these bars beyond your average crumb cake or coffee cake. This balance of sweet, spicy, creamy, and buttery elements creates a flavor experience that keeps people coming back for more.
The Flavor Profile and Texture
The first bite of a Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bar offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The base layer is dense yet tender, providing a sturdy foundation that is soft but not cakey. Over that, the cream cheese mixture swirled with cinnamon creates a rich and creamy middle, melting in your mouth with every bite. The crumbly topping adds a slight crunch and buttery richness that contrasts with the smooth filling below. When finished with the drizzle of sweet glaze, the bars achieve the perfect balance of sweetness that isn’t overpowering but still satisfies the craving for something sugary and comforting.
Occasions to Enjoy Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars
These bars are extremely versatile when it comes to occasions. They are fantastic for weekend brunches alongside coffee or tea, making a memorable start to your day. Because of their easy transportability and portioned slices, they are perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and office parties. They also make a delightful after-school snack or an indulgent dessert for casual family dinners. Their crowd-pleasing flavors ensure that no matter the setting, they will be well received and likely devoured quickly.
Tips for Making the Perfect Bars Every Time
One key to success with these bars is not overbaking them. Baking just until the top is golden and the cream cheese filling is set ensures a moist, tender texture. Overbaking can cause dryness or cracking in the filling. Another tip is to use softened cream cheese rather than cold, as this helps create a smooth filling with no lumps. For the crumb topping, make sure the butter is melted but not too hot before mixing it with the dry ingredients to achieve that perfect streusel consistency. When drizzling the glaze, add just enough to enhance sweetness without making the bars soggy.
Variations and Customizations
While the classic version is delicious as is, these bars are highly adaptable. You can add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for added texture and nuttiness. Swirling in some caramel or maple syrup into the cream cheese layer can introduce new flavor dimensions. For those who love a fruity twist, adding small bits of apple or pear to the cream cheese filling complements the cinnamon beautifully. Additionally, for a more decadent treat, topping with a cream cheese frosting instead of glaze is an indulgent upgrade.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended and they can last up to a week. They also freeze well; wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. These bars are delicious served slightly warmed, which enhances their soft texture and flavor. You can reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 15 seconds or warm the whole pan gently in the oven.
Why This Recipe Works for Beginners and Pros Alike
One of the reasons this recipe has become a favorite is how accessible it is. There’s no need to worry about yeast activation or proofing dough, and all the ingredients are pantry staples. The mixing method is straightforward and forgiving, making it hard to mess up. At the same time, experienced bakers will appreciate the complex layering of flavors and textures, and the opportunity to experiment with different add-ins or glazes. It’s a perfect recipe to keep in your repertoire for both quick baking sessions and more creative culinary adventures.
Nutritional Considerations
While these bars are undeniably indulgent, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The cream cheese adds a creamy richness that contributes fat and protein, while the cinnamon provides antioxidants. Using brown sugar instead of all white sugar adds a subtle depth of flavor and some trace minerals. For those watching calories or sugar intake, you can adjust the sweetness of the glaze or reduce the amount of sugar in the filling without significantly compromising the overall taste. This flexibility makes the recipe adaptable to a variety of dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the classic taste of cinnamon rolls but wants a faster, easier way to enjoy those flavors. Their luscious cream cheese filling, buttery crumb topping, and cinnamon-spiced base combine into a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring with a cup of coffee on a quiet morning, these bars deliver all the warmth and sweetness you expect from cinnamon rolls in a convenient and crowd-pleasing format. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these bars promise a blissful experience with every bite. Give them a try and discover why they’re quickly becoming a beloved favorite in kitchens everywhere.