Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars

Introduction:

Who doesn’t love a good cinnamon roll? Now, imagine that delightful cinnamon swirls combined with a creamy, dreamy cheesecake layer and a buttery graham cracker crust. Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are an irresistible dessert that brings together the best of both worlds — the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls and the smooth indulgence of cheesecake. This dessert is perfect for those times when you crave something sweet yet easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these bars are sure to impress!

Ingredients:

Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar

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 a vegan version)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Swirl:

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon cinnamon

Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
3 tablespoons milk (use almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang for easy removal after baking.
Make the Crust: In a medium-sized bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix well. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and smooth.
Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
Assemble the Bars: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. Drizzle the cinnamon mixture on top of the cheesecake filling. Use a knife or a toothpick to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the cheesecake for a marbled effect.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is firm. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled bars.
Serve: Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares and enjoy the blissful combination of flavors and textures.

Tips:

Keep a close watch on the baking time to avoid overcooking.
For a fun variation, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer before baking!
These bars are ideal for parties, family gatherings, or just as a sweet treat for yourself during a cozy afternoon break.

History:

Cinnamon rolls have a rich history, dating back to Scandinavia, where they are a popular pastry. The concept of combining sweet dough with cinnamon and sugar was perfected in Sweden and Denmark, becoming an iconic breakfast or dessert item. The American adaptation of cinnamon rolls began in the early 20th century, often served with a rich glaze. These Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a modern twist on that classic cinnamon roll, transforming it into a cheesecake bar that is both visually stunning and delicious.

Benefits:

Indulgence without Guilt: By using dairy-free alternatives (such as dairy-free cream cheese and milk), these bars can cater to those with dietary restrictions while still offering indulgent flavor.
Calcium & Protein: The cream cheese and eggs in the cheesecake filling provide a good source of protein and calcium.
Energy Boost: The graham cracker crust and cinnamon filling offer quick energy from natural sugars, perfect for an afternoon snack.
Mood-Boosting: Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels, promoting overall wellness.

Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per serving):

Calories: 320 kcal
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 1g

Conclusion:

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars combine all the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, creating a decadent dessert that will please any crowd. Whether you choose to prepare it for a holiday gathering or just a cozy afternoon treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. And with a few simple adjustments, you can cater to various dietary preferences, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and dive into this heavenly dessert that’s bound to become a new tradition!

For Lovers of:

Cheesecake lovers
Cinnamon roll enthusiasts
Anyone with a sweet tooth!