If you have a soft spot for cinnamon rolls but want something faster, easier, and equally delightful, the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe is going to be your new favorite sweet fix. These bars capture all the warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness you love from classic cinnamon rolls, but in a handheld form that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. With layers of tender cake, cinnamon sugar swirls, and a sweet glaze, every bite feels like a comforting hug. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a special role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and sweetness in your Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe. From the fluffy all-purpose flour to the rich cinnamon swirl, every element contributes to making this treat utterly irresistible.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the soft, cake-like base for the bars that holds everything together.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps achieve a lovely golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the bars rise nicely, creating a light and tender crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and contributes richness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings buttery flavor and a tender texture to the bars.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binding agent and adds structure.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses the bars with that classic cinnamon roll essence.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Creates the luscious cinnamon swirl with a hint of molasses richness.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Forms the sweet glaze topping to finish the bars perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Helps thin the powdered sugar into a creamy, drizzle-ready glaze.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking these delightful bars. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt — this dry mix will form your base. In a separate bowl, blend the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring carefully until just combined. The batter should be thick but smooth, promising a tender, cakey texture once baked.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl Layer
Now for the fun part that makes these bars irresistible: the cinnamon swirl! Mix the ground cinnamon with the brown sugar in a small bowl. Spread about half of the batter evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Dollop the remaining batter on top, gently spreading it over the cinnamon sugar layer to create swirls. This layered effect is what gives the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars that signature delicious look and flavor burst in every bite.
Step 3: Bake and Glaze
Bake the bars for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean and the edges start to turn golden brown. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool completely in the pan. While they’re cooling, combine the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled bars for that perfect sweet finish that mimics a classic cinnamon roll icing. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before cutting into squares.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the glaze can make your bars look stunning and give an extra flavor pop. For a little extra indulgence, add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or a few raisins if you like that burst of sweetness.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are wonderful on their own, but pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a side of fresh berries can turn your snack into a delightful dessert experience or a spectacular brunch treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Present these bars on a rustic wooden board for a cozy feel or arrange them on a tiered cake stand for a special occasion. You can even wrap individual bars in parchment paper tied with a ribbon for gifting – they make fantastic homemade presents that anyone would appreciate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars stay moist and flavorful when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’re keeping them longer, consider refrigeration to maintain freshness, especially if you’ve added any cream or dairy-based toppings.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To enjoy the warm, fresh-baked feel, reheat your bars in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Warmed bliss bars tend to bring out the cinnamon aroma and make the glaze slightly gooey, just like fresh cinnamon rolls!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour is best for achieving the ideal texture in Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars. Using whole wheat or gluten-free flour can alter the crumb and density but may work if adjusted carefully. For gluten-free options, look for a 1:1 baking flour blend and consider adding a binder like xanthan gum.
Is it necessary to melt the butter?
Yes, melted butter mixes more evenly into the batter and contributes to a moist, tender crumb. Using softened but not melted butter could create uneven texture and affect how your bars bake.
Can I make the bars dairy-free?
Certainly! Swap the whole milk for almond, soy, or oat milk, and replace unsalted butter with a vegan butter alternative. The texture might be slightly different but the overall cinnamon roll goodness will still shine through.
How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar from sinking?
The trick is to carefully layer half the batter, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly, and then gently spread the remaining batter on top to create those beautiful swirls. Avoid stirring after adding the cinnamon sugar layer to preserve the swirl effect.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan or two pans, adjusting baking time as needed. Keep an eye on them as larger pans might take a bit longer to fully bake through.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about baking that fills your home with the warm aroma of cinnamon and vanilla, and the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe does just that and more. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these bars are a trustworthy crowd-pleaser that offer the comforting flavor of cinnamon rolls with much less fuss. Give this recipe a try, and prepare to fall in love with a new classic!
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Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars combine the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a bar dessert. Featuring a tender, buttery base generously swirled with cinnamon and brown sugar, these bars are topped with a sweet vanilla glaze that enhances their delightful, gooey texture. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, these bars are easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a smooth batter.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the batter layer. Then pour the remaining batter on top to cover the cinnamon sugar.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the bars are golden brown on top.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the bars are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
- Cool and Glaze: Once the bars are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm bars. Let the glaze set before cutting into 12 bars.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs and milk for best batter consistency.
- For extra cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top of the glaze before it sets.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Warm bars slightly before serving for a freshly baked taste.
