Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe

If you are searching for a dessert that wraps the warm, comforting flavors of your favorite breakfast treat into a delightfully easy-to-make bar, look no further than Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars. This scrumptious creation is like having a gooey cinnamon roll that you can grab by the hand whenever a sweet craving hits, without the fuss of rolling dough or waiting for multiple rises. With layers of creamy cheesecake and a buttery cinnamon crumb topping all nestled on a crunchy graham cracker crust, Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars deliver that perfect harmony of soft, sweet, and spice in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

To bring these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars to life, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that work together beautifully to create a deliciously textured and flavorful treat. Each component plays a vital role, from the crunchy base to the creamy filling and the classic cinnamon sugar topping.

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crisp, slightly sweet base that holds the bars together perfectly.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients and adds buttery richness without overpowering.
• 1/4 cup sugar (for crust): Adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the crunch and buttery notes.
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates that luscious, smooth cheesecake filling every bite craves.
• 1/2 cup sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cream cheese just enough to complement the cinnamon without cloying.
• 2 eggs: Gives structure and a tender texture to the cheesecake layer.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling): Infuses a hint of warmth that elevates the creamy filling’s flavor.
• 1/4 cup melted butter (for topping): Makes the cinnamon crumb topping rich and flaky.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses sweetness to the topping for that true cinnamon roll vibe.
• 1 tbsp cinnamon: The star spice that perfectly blends with the sweet and buttery flavors.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Forms the base of the creamy drizzle that finishes the bars off beautifully.
• 2–3 tbsp milk: Adjusts the glaze to the perfect pouring consistency.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds a delightful aroma and rounds out the sweetness of the glaze.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Begin by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and 1/4 cup sugar until everything is evenly combined and looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch pan. The key here is to make sure the crust is packed tightly so it holds together once baked, giving you that satisfyingly firm base for the layers to come.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Add 1/2 cup sugar, eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then continue mixing until the batter is velvety and lump-free. This filling acts like a luscious, tangy blanket that balances the sweetness of the crust and topping, adding a dreamy texture just like the cheesecake layer you never knew you wanted.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Bars

Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the packed crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter to create the crumbly topping. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar topping evenly over the cream cheese layer. Bake the bars at 325°F (160°C) for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until you see the edges turning golden and the center is set but still slightly soft. Resist the urge to overbake, as you want the blissfully soft texture to remain.

Step 4: Prepare the Icing Drizzle

While the bars cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Once the bars have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze generously over the top in a zigzag pattern. This drizzle not only adds a gorgeous finishing touch but also mimics the classic icing you find on cinnamon rolls, sealing in the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars magic.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars

Garnishes

For a little extra flair and flavor, you can sprinkle a light dusting of ground cinnamon over the icing or add a few toasted pecans or walnuts on top to bring a crunchy contrast. Freshly whisked cream or a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt can also add a creamy coolness that pairs beautifully with the warm spices.

Side Dishes

These bars are a star on their own but offer a delightful pairing with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider. For a brunch gathering, serve alongside fresh fruit or a light, citrusy salad to balance the richness of the bars.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars into neat squares or fun rectangles and serve them on a rustic wooden board with some dusted cinnamon sticks for decoration. For a party, try layering smaller pieces in glass parfait cups with whipped cream and fresh berries for a visually stunning dessert that guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars keep their flavor and texture wonderfully well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to five days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy days or unexpected guests.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars even later, you can freeze them. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to two months, so you can savor that cinnamon roll taste anytime cravings strike.

Reheating

The best way to reheat these bars is to let them thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm them slightly in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds. This way, the creamy filling softens deliciously without melting the icing completely, bringing back that fresh-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust for Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars?

Absolutely! While graham cracker crumbs offer a great balance of sweetness and crunch, you can experiment with crushed digestive biscuits or even a cinnamon-spiced pretzel crust if you want a bit more texture and flavor variation.

Is it possible to make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, you can replace cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like almond-based or soy-based cream cheese and use plant-based butter substitutes. Just be mindful that this might slightly alter the taste and texture, but the essence of Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars will remain delicious.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Definitely! Incorporating chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch, and raisins or dried cranberries bring a sweet chewiness that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

You should look for golden edges and a filling that’s just set with slight wobble in the center, much like a cheesecake. They will firm up more as they cool, so avoid overbaking or you risk drying them out.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

You can! Just be sure to use a larger pan or bake in two pans. Adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness a few minutes earlier or later depending on the pan size.

Final Thoughts

Making Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars is a wonderful way to capture all the warm, sweet, and cinnamon-spiced goodness of a classic cinnamon roll without the fuss and time. These bars are perfect any time you want a comforting homemade treat that’s easy to slice, share, and devour. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become one of your go-to favorites to brighten up your day or wow your friends and family.

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