Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe
If you’re craving the warm, nostalgic goodness of cinnamon rolls but want a fun, fuss-free twist, these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are about to become your new dessert obsession. Imagine a soft, golden bar packed with creamy white chocolate chips, crunchy pecans, and a swirl of spiced sweetness, all finished with a dreamy cream cheese frosting. This recipe brings together everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls in a perfectly portable, sliceable treat that’s just as fantastic for brunch as it is for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars comes from a handful of simple, yet crucial, ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in creating that signature flavor and irresistible texture—so don’t skip or skimp! Here’s what you’ll gather before you start:
- Cake Mix: Use a cinnamon roll cake mix for ultimate flavor, or swap in white cake mix with a teaspoon of cinnamon for a homemade shortcut.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter keeps the bars ultra-moist and adds a rich, buttery base.
- Egg: Just one large egg binds everything together for the perfect chewy bite.
- White Chocolate Chips: These melt into sweet, creamy pockets for a decadent surprise in every bar.
- Pecans (optional): Chopped pecans add crunch and a nutty note—totally optional, but highly recommended for texture!
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all those cozy cinnamon flavors.
- Cream Cheese: For the frosting, softened cream cheese brings tangy, luscious creaminess.
- Powdered Sugar: Sifts right into the frosting to make it glossy and smooth.
- Milk: Just enough to reach that dreamy, spreadable frosting consistency.
- Extra Vanilla Extract: For the frosting—because a double hit of vanilla is always a good idea!
- Cinnamon (optional): A pinch in the frosting takes the spice factor up a notch.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or give it a light greasing. This little step makes sure your Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars lift out effortlessly—because no one wants to battle a sticky pan when dessert is calling!
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine your cake mix, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is blended and a thick, slightly sticky dough forms. If you’re using a cinnamon roll cake mix with an icing packet, you can set the icing aside for a fun swirl later.
Step 3: Add the Mix-Ins
Fold in the white chocolate chips and pecans (if you’re feeling nutty!). These add texture and little bursts of flavor that make every bite of your Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars so satisfying.
Step 4: Press and Bake
Scoop the dough into your prepared pan and press it out evenly with your hands or a spatula. For extra cinnamon flair, swirl in some of the icing from the cake mix packet right into the dough before baking. Bake for 20–24 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center looks just set. The aroma will be absolutely irresistible!
Step 5: Cool Completely
Let the bars cool fully in the pan. This is important—if you frost while they’re still warm, the creamy topping will melt and slide right off. Patience is the hardest part, but it pays off!
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, a pinch of cinnamon (if you’d like), and enough milk to create a spreadable consistency. The result is a silky, tangy frosting that’s the perfect crowning glory for your Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars.
Step 7: Frost, Chill, and Slice
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. For clean edges and easy slicing, chill the pan in the fridge for 15–30 minutes before cutting the bars into perfect squares. Now you’re ready to savor the bliss!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars
Garnishes
A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a drizzle of leftover cinnamon roll icing makes these bars look bakery-worthy. For a little sparkle, dust with extra powdered sugar or top each square with a pecan half. Simple touches turn Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars into a show-stopping treat!
Side Dishes
Pair your Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars with fresh fruit—think juicy berries or sliced pears—to balance their sweetness. They also shine next to a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a piping hot espresso for a perfect weekend brunch or afternoon pick-me-up.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack bars on a tiered platter for a stunning dessert table centerpiece, or wrap individual squares in parchment and twine for a sweet edible gift. For parties, cut the bars into smaller bites and serve on skewers for a playful twist. However you present them, Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are guaranteed to wow!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh and moist for up to five days, making them a make-ahead dream for busy weeks or spontaneous sweet cravings.
Freezing
Want to stash some bars for later? No problem! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months—just thaw in the fridge overnight for a ready-to-go treat.
Reheating
If you like your Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars a little warm, pop a square in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The frosting gets delightfully melty and the white chocolate chips turn gooey, making each bite taste fresh-baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! If you can’t find cinnamon roll cake mix, a white or yellow cake mix with a teaspoon of ground cinnamon works perfectly. Spice cake mix is another fun option for an extra boost of warm flavor.
Are the pecans necessary?
Not at all! Pecans are completely optional, so feel free to leave them out if you prefer nut-free bars. You can also swap in walnuts or even chocolate chips for a fun twist.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time—just keep an eye on those golden edges.
How do I get clean slices?
Chilling the frosted bars for at least 15–30 minutes helps firm up the frosting, making it much easier to cut neat, tidy squares. For extra clean edges, wipe your knife between slices.
Can I make Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free cake mix and make sure all your other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The bars turn out just as delicious and crowd-pleasing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about sharing a pan of Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars with family and friends. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these bars are sure to bring smiles (and maybe a few recipe requests!). Give them a try, and get ready to experience cinnamon roll bliss in every single bite.
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Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a delightful, easy-to-make dessert featuring a cinnamon-flavored cake base loaded with white chocolate chips and optional pecans, topped with a creamy cinnamon-spiked cream cheese frosting. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort, these bars combine the warm flavors of cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a cake mix.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 box (15.25 oz) cinnamon roll cake mix (or white cake mix with 1 tsp cinnamon)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the cinnamon roll cake mix, melted unsalted butter, one large egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until a thick dough forms.
- Add Mix-ins: Fold in the white chocolate chips and chopped pecans if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Press Dough in Pan: Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing out the surface for even baking.
- Bake: Bake for 20 to 24 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center is just set. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars moist.
- Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to ensure the frosting does not melt upon application.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon if desired. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Frost Bars: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the frosted bars in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes to set the frosting before slicing into 16 squares and serving.
Notes
- Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- For extra cinnamon flavor, swirl a spoonful of cinnamon roll icing packet (if included with your mix) into the dough before baking.
- These bars can be made with white cake mix plus cinnamon if a cinnamon roll mix is unavailable.
- Optional nuts can be omitted to suit allergies or preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
