Introduction

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a cozy and comforting dessert that captures the classic cinnamon roll flavor in an easy-to-cut bar form. With a tender, flaky base topped with cinnamon-sugar filling and creamy frosting, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises warm, sweet bliss in every bite.

Three square dessert bars are stacked on a white plate on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three visible layers: a crumbly golden-brown crust base, a middle layer of dark brown cinnamon and sugar mixture with a sticky texture, and a smooth, white icing layer on top. The top icing is drizzled in diagonal stripes, contrasting with the rough texture of the cinnamon filling. The bars have clean, sharp edges showing the layers clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for the base)
¾ cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup brown sugar (for the filling)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for the filling)
4 ounces cream cheese, softened (for the frosting)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for the frosting)
1 ½ cups powdered sugar (for the frosting)
2 tablespoons milk (for the frosting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Cut the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk and vanilla extract, then pour this into the dry mixture. Gently stir until just combined to form a light dough.
Step 5: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth base layer.
Step 6: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dough base, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
Step 7: Bake the bars for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
Step 8: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
Step 9: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, substitute half the buttermilk with sour cream.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling for added crunch.
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top of the frosting for enhanced aroma and flavor.
Use light brown sugar for a milder cinnamon filling or dark brown sugar for a deeper caramel note.

Storage

Store the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, you can let them sit at room temperature for 20 minutes for a softer texture. These bars also freeze well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.

How to Serve

A stack of three square dessert bars is shown on a white plate on a white marbled surface; each bar has three visible layers with the bottom one being a light golden brown crumbly crust, the middle layer a thick, dark brown filling with a sticky, nutty texture, and the top layer a smooth, creamy white glaze that drips slightly down the sides and has thin lines of additional glaze running horizontally across the top bar. The bars look moist, dense, and rich. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar per cup. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to mimic the tanginess and acidity of buttermilk.

How do I prevent the bars from becoming soggy under the frosting?

Allow the bars to cool completely before spreading the frosting. This prevents moisture from the warm bars softening the frosting and keeps the layers distinct.