Chef Mitchell preparing Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe during a family gathering when my grandmother made her famous cinnamon bars. After several attempts and tweaks, I perfected it to create a dessert that brings joy and warmth to any occasion. Each bite is a reminder of those cherished moments shared with loved ones, making it a staple in my dessert repertoire."

I have been a professional chef specializing in American cuisine for over a decade. My passion lies in creating comforting desserts that evoke nostalgia and delight. With a vast experience in both baking and cooking, I aim to share recipes that are both easy and rewarding.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars served on a plate

Why This Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars Recipe Works

This recipe for Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars combines simple ingredients that are often found in your pantry, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever a craving strikes. The balance of sugars and spices creates a rich, comforting flavor that is both satisfying and indulgent. Additionally, the bars maintain a moist texture while developing a slight crispness on the edges, making every bite irresistible.

The technique of creaming the butter and sugars together ensures a light, fluffy batter that bakes beautifully. Adding the eggs one at a time also helps to incorporate air, yielding a tender bar that isn't overly dense. With the optional nuts and chocolate chips, you can customize each batch to suit your taste preferences.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting. This allows them to set properly and makes for cleaner cuts. Additionally, if you like a richer flavor, try browning the butter before mixing it into the batter—a subtle change that can elevate the overall taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars ahead of time. Bake them and let them cool completely, then cover them tightly and store them at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, making them a convenient option for parties or gatherings.

If you need a substitute for butter, you can use coconut oil, unsweetened applesauce, or a vegan butter alternative. Keep in mind that using applesauce may change the texture slightly, making the bars a bit denser but still delicious.

The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry bars.

Yes, Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars freeze well. To freeze, cut them into individual bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

In the refrigerator, Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars can last for about a week when stored in an airtight container. However, for the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to enjoy them within the first few days after baking.

Absolutely! You can make Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars in advance. Just bake, cool, and store them as mentioned earlier. They make for a perfect make-ahead dessert for any occasion, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.

To reheat Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm. Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Enjoy them warm for a delicious treat!

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your bars come out too dry, it may be due to overmixing or overbaking.

Solution: To prevent this, mix the batter just until combined and keep a close eye on the baking time. You can also add a bit more moisture, like an extra egg or a splash of milk, to the batter if needed.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the bars aren't crispy enough on the edges, they may not have been baked long enough.

Solution: Extend the baking time by a few minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don't overbake. A slight golden color on the edges is a good indicator of doneness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked bars can become hard and lose their delightful texture.

Prevention: To prevent this, stick to the recommended baking time and test for doneness a few minutes early. If you suspect they're overcooked, consider reducing your oven temperature slightly next time.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of your bars remains undercooked, they may need extra baking time.

Recovery: If this happens, return them to the oven for a few more minutes and check for doneness again. Covering with foil can help avoid overly browned edges while the center cooks through.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt edges can occur if the bars are placed too close to the heating element.

Prevention: To avoid this, place the baking dish in the middle of the oven and check for doneness a few minutes before the time is up to ensure even baking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bars are too sweet, consider reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe next time.

Too Salty: If they taste too salty, ensure you measure the salt accurately, or add a small amount of sugar to balance out the flavor.

Bland: For bland bars, increase the amount of cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars

Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars

Key ingredients in this recipe include butter for richness, flour for structure, and a blend of granulated and brown sugar for depth of flavor. The addition of eggs adds moisture and binding, while cinnamon provides that warm, comforting spice that makes these bars so special.

Using high-quality ingredients, such as real butter and pure vanilla extract, can significantly enhance the flavor of your dessert bars. Freshly ground cinnamon will also add more aromatic qualities than pre-ground spices, making a noticeable difference in taste.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe. Make sure it's at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars.
  • Cinnamon: Opt for Ceylon cinnamon for a sweeter, more delicate flavor. Freshly ground cinnamon will give your bars the best aroma and taste.
  • Sugar: Combining granulated and brown sugar gives your bars a perfect balance of sweetness and moisture. Brown sugar adds a slight chewiness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Cooking process for Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars is straightforward, involving creaming the butter and sugars, adding eggs, and mixing in the dry ingredients. This method ensures a perfectly blended batter that bakes evenly. Remember to keep the mixing concise to maintain the bar's tender texture.

Baking the bars until golden brown creates that delightful contrast between the soft center and the crispy edges. Allowing them to cool completely ensures they set properly, making it easier to cut into neat squares without crumbling.

Key Technique for Perfect Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars

The creaming method is vital for achieving the right texture in these dessert bars. By thoroughly creaming the butter and sugars together, you introduce air into the mixture, which helps create a light and fluffy bar. This technique sets the foundation for the bars' delightful chewiness and flavor.

Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
    For flavor depth
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    For aroma
  • 1/2 cup milk
    For moisture
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
    Optional for spice

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup butter, softened
    For richness
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    For structure
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
    For flavor depth
  • 4 large eggs
    For binding
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    For aroma
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    For leavening
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    For flavor
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
    For spice
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
    For texture
  • 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
    For added sweetness
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting
    For presentation

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

  2. Mix Butter and Sugars

    In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

    Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

  4. Combine Dry Ingredients

    In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

  5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.

  6. Fold in Optional Ingredients

    If desired, fold in the chopped nuts and chocolate chips.

  7. Bake

    Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

  8. Cool and Dust

    Allow to cool completely in the pan before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into bars.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are best served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate your dessert experience.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize your Cinnamon Bliss Dessert Bars by adding different mix-ins like dried fruits, seeds, or various types of chocolate. You can also try different spice blends to create a unique flavor profile.