Introduction

These Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars capture all the warm, spicy flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in an easy-to-make bar form. Soft, tender, and topped with a creamy frosting, they make a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert.

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk (or dairy-free alternative)
Additional brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugars, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 5: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: In a small bowl, combine more brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
Step 7: Spread half of the batter into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture over this layer, then dollop the remaining batter on top and spread it evenly.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: While the bars cool, prepare the frosting by whisking together powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk until smooth and creamy.
Step 10: Once the bars have cooled completely, spread the frosting generously on top. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter and milk with your favorite plant-based alternatives.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for extra crunch.
Use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar for a milder molasses flavor.
Chill the dough briefly before spreading for easier handling and a thicker swirl layer.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, then bring to room temperature before serving. Leftovers can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat gently before frosting.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different size pan?

Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly. A smaller pan will require longer baking, while a larger pan will shorten baking time. Check doneness with a toothpick regularly.

How do I know when the bars are done?

The bars are ready when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 127 reviews

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a delightful dessert combining the rich flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of bar baking. Featuring a cinnamon-swirled tender batter topped with a creamy vanilla frosting, these bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings with a homemade touch.

Author: Lena
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup powdered sugar

Wet Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for frosting)
1 cup brown sugar, divided
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
1 tablespoon milk (or dairy-free alternative)

Additional

Additional brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth base for the bars.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spice.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugars, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the batter.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract so the flavor is fully incorporated into the batter.
Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine additional brown sugar and cinnamon to create the swirl topping that mimics traditional cinnamon roll flavor.
Layer Batter and Swirl: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over this layer, then dollop and spread the remaining batter on top to create a marbled effect.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
Make Frosting: While bars cool, whisk together powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk until smooth and creamy to create a luscious frosting.
Frost and Serve: After the bars have cooled completely, spread the frosting generously over the top. Cut into squares and serve your cinnamon roll bliss bars.

Notes

Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients to maintain a tender texture.
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
Ensure the bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: Cinnamon roll bars, cinnamon swirl bars, easy cinnamon dessert, baked cinnamon bars, cinnamon roll inspired dessert