Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors with these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars! Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, soft bar, bursting with sweet cinnamon goodness and a creamy swirl of frosting. These treats are perfect for a cozy brunch or a sweet afternoon snack, bringing the comforting vibes of fresh cinnamon rolls to your kitchen without all the fuss. Let’s dive into the delightful world of baking these easy-to-make bars that are sure to please everyone!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 16 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy lifting later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon, stirring until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth and glossy mixture.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the top of the batter, then use a knife to swirl it gently for a beautiful marbled effect.
- If you’re using nuts, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an extra crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan for about 15 minutes; then lift them out using the parchment overhang and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- After they’ve cooled, slice the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of sweetness, consider drizzling additional melted cream cheese or icing over the cooled bars. Feel free to substitute the nuts with your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or dried fruit, to personalize your bliss bars. These bars also store well; simply keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days!
Cooking Techniques
Swirling the cream cheese frosting skillfully is key to achieving that lovely marble look—just make gentle, swirling motions without mixing too much. Ensure the butter is fully melted before combining it with the sugars, as this helps create a rich and moist texture. Lastly, be attentive while baking; checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark ensures your bars don’t overbake and dry out.
FAQ
Can I make these bars ahead of time? Yes! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. They taste great chilled or at room temperature.
Can I freeze the bars? Absolutely! Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, storing them in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are the epitome of comfort food, blending the warm, nostalgic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a bar. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, they’re sure to become a household favorite. So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and enjoy bringing a little sweetness into your day!