Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars

Introduction

With their delightful combination of cinnamon and sweet cream cheese, these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are sure to become a cherished treat in your home. Perfect for brunch or as an afternoon snack, these bars deliver all the comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls but with a much simpler preparation.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

Directions and Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If desired, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts.
5. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. While the bars cool, prepare the glaze by mixing the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk in a bowl until smooth.
8. Once the bars have cooled completely, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top.
9. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes or Tips

• For an extra touch, sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar on top of the glaze.
• You can store the bars in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Feel free to add raisins or chocolate chips to the batter for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

These bliss bars rely on the basic techniques of mixing, creaming, and baking, ensuring a light and fluffy texture. The key is not to overmix once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, which helps retain their tender crumb.

FAQ

• Can I substitute the unsalted butter? Yes, you can use margarine or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
• Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe? You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute.
• How can I make these bars more decadent? Consider adding a layer of chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are not just a dessert; they’re a warm embrace of flavor and comfort. Whether shared with friends or savored alone with a cup of coffee, these bars are a delightful reminder that baking can be simple, yet incredibly satisfying. Enjoy!