Absolutely! Here’s a full breakdown of Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars, complete with all requested sections to capture the flavor and charm of this treat:
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars
A buttery, cinnamon-kissed dessert bar that tastes just like a gooey cinnamon roll in sliceable form.
Introduction
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a sweet, soft, and spiced dessert bar that brings the indulgent comfort of a cinnamon roll into a more convenient, bake-and-slice format. They’re perfect for bake sales, brunch tables, or cozy nights in. These bars capture everything you love about a cinnamon roll—without the wait or the rolling.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Cinnamon rolls are believed to have originated in Sweden, where they’re known as “kanelbullar” and enjoyed during fika (coffee breaks). Over time, the rich cinnamon-sugar swirl has become a beloved part of Western breakfast and dessert traditions. Bliss bars—known for their layered sweetness and simplicity—are a modern American dessert trend. This recipe blends the two: the nostalgic charm of a cinnamon roll with the ease and shareability of a dessert bar.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Base:
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (55g) brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
Suggested Cinnamon Sugar Topping: (if adding cinnamon swirl or crumble)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Optional Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions
- Swirl in cinnamon sugar filling for a true “roll” effect
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for texture
- Use a cream cheese glaze or vanilla icing drizzle on top
- Mix in white chocolate chips or raisins
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth
Tips for Success
- Soften butter properly for even mixing—don’t melt it
- Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy for a tender base
- Don’t overmix once the flour is added—just until combined
- For a more “cinnamon roll” feel, swirl in cinnamon sugar before baking
- Let bars cool completely before adding glaze to prevent melting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in flour until just combined—do not overmix.
- Spread batter evenly in prepared pan.
- (Optional) Mix cinnamon, brown sugar, and melted butter. Dollop and swirl into the batter.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes or until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely.
- (Optional) Whisk cream cheese glaze ingredients and drizzle over the bars.
- Slice into squares and enjoy!
Description
These bars are soft, chewy, and packed with sweet, buttery flavor and a cozy cinnamon warmth. They have a cookie-like bite with the familiar taste of a gooey cinnamon roll, especially when topped with a silky glaze. They’re bliss in every bite.
Nutritional Information (per bar, assuming 12 bars)
- Calories: ~210
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 50mg
Values vary with optional glaze and additions.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a delicious hybrid dessert—cozy enough for a family gathering, elegant enough for gifting or parties. They’re quick to make and universally loved, making them a staple for bakers who want maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter twist, try reducing sugar by 25%, using whole wheat pastry flour, or substituting part of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. You can also use Greek yogurt in the glaze to add creaminess with a protein boost. Even small tweaks let you enjoy the indulgence while keeping things balanced.
Let me know if you’d like a version with a cinnamon filling layer or a gluten-free adaptation!