These Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a rich, swirled cinnamon filling, these bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These bliss bars are not only incredibly easy to make but also deliver an impressive flavor that will leave your guests asking for seconds. The combination of the smooth cream cheese filling with the sweet and spicy cinnamon swirl creates a heavenly treat that is both satisfying and indulgent. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them a convenient dessert option for busy days.
Introduction
Imagine biting into a soft, rich bar that perfectly balances the flavors of cheesecake and cinnamon rolls. The Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are here to bring that dream to life! This recipe combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the warm, nostalgic taste of cinnamon, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you are serving them at a brunch, a potluck, or simply enjoying them at home, these bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is as simple as it is scrumptious!
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened (use a dairy-free version for an alternative)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs (substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for vegan)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (use almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius). Line a 9×9 inch pan with parchment paper, letting it hang over the edges for easy removal.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar to make the crust. Press this mixture evenly into the base of your prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until creamy and smooth. Add in eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
Step 4: In a small bowl, prepare the cinnamon mixture by blending melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Step 5: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust. Drizzle the cinnamon mixture on top and swirl with a knife to create a beautiful pattern.
Step 6: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is firm and the edges are golden. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Step 7: For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle generously over the cooled bars.
Step 8: Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice them into squares and get ready to enjoy!
Baking Note:
Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overcooking. The bars should be set in the middle but still have a slight jiggle when you take them out of the oven.
Suggestions for Presentation:
For an elegant touch, serve the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars on a decorative platter. You can garnish them with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair them with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra special treat!
Tips:
- For an indulgent twist, add some chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer!
- These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them perfect for parties or gatherings.
- Experiment with different flavorings in the glaze, such as almond extract or lemon zest, to customize your bars!
Time Information:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information (per bar, makes 16 bars):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a deliciously decadent treat that combines the best of both worlds: the creamy texture of cheesecake and the warm, inviting flavor of cinnamon rolls. They are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed on any occasion, making them a must-try for dessert lovers everywhere. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these bars will surely be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free version and use unsweetened applesauce instead of eggs.
2. How long do these bars last in the refrigerator?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
3. Can I freeze the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars?
Absolutely! These bars freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months.
4. What can I serve with these bars?
They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
5. Can I add other flavors to the cheesecake filling?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon, or even add chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
Get your baking tools ready and treat yourself to these delicious Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars! 🍰✨