Introduction

Delightful Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars combine the sweet, warm flavors of classic cinnamon rolls into an easy-to-make bar. With a tender base, a cinnamon-sugar swirl, and creamy frosting, these bars are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a comforting treat.

Two square dessert bars are stacked on white parchment paper on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a dark brown, dense crust; the middle layer is thick and creamy white, resembling cheesecake filling; the top layer is a golden, crunchy, caramelized nut topping mixed with melted chocolate drizzled over it. The bars have a slightly rough texture on top with visible bits of nuts and glossy chocolate swirls, while the sides show distinct layers clearly. In the background, more bars sit on a white plate, softly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
1/4 cup (60ml) milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Cut the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk with the vanilla extract. Pour this into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined—do not overmix.
Step 5: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth, even layer.
Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Drizzle the melted butter over the dough base, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
Step 7: Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
Step 8: For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add 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 and serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra gooey bars, use full-fat cream cheese and make sure the bars are fully cooled before frosting.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added crunch and flavor.
If you don’t have buttermilk, substitute with milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice, rested for 5 minutes.

Storage

Store the cinnamon roll bliss bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the bars without frosting for up to 2 months; add frosting after thawing.

How to Serve

A stack of three thick dessert bars rests on a white plate with ridged edges, placed on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three distinct layers: the bottom is a dense, crumbly golden-brown crust with visible chunks of nuts; the middle layer is a sticky, rich caramel filled with more nuts that add a textured, chewy look; the top layer is a smooth, creamy white icing drizzled with thin, dark brown chocolate lines in a zigzag pattern. The bars are neatly cut into squares, with the top bar slightly offset to reveal its thick layers clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I prevent the bars from drying out?

Make sure to measure ingredients accurately and avoid overbaking. Store the bars in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated if not eating right away to maintain moisture.