Name: Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
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

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1½ cup 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 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2-3 tablespoons milk

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 of 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 baking pan.

Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Add the melted ¼ cup of butter and stir until well combined. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the base batter, then add the remaining base batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture throughout the batter, creating a beautiful marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Gradually add the milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 6: Spread the creamy cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars. Cut the bars into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For an extra cinnamon kick, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top of the frosting before serving.

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

If you prefer a thicker frosting, use less milk and beat longer to achieve stiffness.

Try adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the cinnamon-sugar layer for added texture.

Storage

Store the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them come to room temperature or warm briefly before serving to enjoy the soft texture. You can also freeze the bars, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost just before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, keeping the same quantity. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well for best results.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and tender.