There’s something magical about cinnamon rolls the warm swirls of cinnamon sugar, the soft dough, and that irresistible drizzle of creamy glaze. Now imagine all that goodness baked into a buttery, chewy bar that’s easy to make and even easier to devour. Enter Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars, a dreamy dessert that combines the comfort of cinnamon rolls with the convenience of bars. Whether you serve them fresh out of the oven or sneak a square with your morning coffee, these bars are guaranteed to become a family favorite.
What Are Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars?
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a hybrid dessert that takes everything you love about cinnamon rolls cinnamon-sugar layers, buttery richness, and cream cheese glaze and transforms them into soft, chewy bars. Instead of working with yeast dough, you’ll make a tender vanilla cake base swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar, then top it with a luscious glaze. The result? A dessert that tastes like cinnamon rolls but comes together in a fraction of the time.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
These bars are more than just a sweet treat they’re a shortcut to joy. Here’s why you’ll adore them:
- No Yeast, No Waiting – Skip the kneading and proofing; these bars are quick and simple.
- Perfect for Sharing – Bake in one pan and slice into squares for parties, potlucks, or bake sales.
- All-Day Dessert – Enjoy them for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert after dinner.
- Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate, or even a drizzle of caramel for your own twist.
How Do They Taste?
Imagine biting into a soft, buttery vanilla base with a ribbon of cinnamon sugar melting in every bite. The cinnamon-swirled layers bring warmth and spice, while the glaze adds creamy sweetness that ties everything together. These bars are slightly chewy at the edges, tender in the center, and taste like a bakery-style cinnamon roll—but easier, richer, and just as indulgent.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
While this is definitely an indulgent dessert, many ingredients bring small perks:
- Cinnamon Packed with antioxidants and known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Butter Adds richness and flavor, and when used in moderation, provides healthy fats.
- Eggs Provide protein and structure to the bars.
- Cream Cheese Adds calcium and tanginess while balancing the sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the bars:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the cinnamon swirl: - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the glaze: - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Whisk for glaze
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Nutty Twist – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl.
- Extra Sweetness – Drizzle with caramel or white chocolate after glazing.
- Spice Boost – Add nutmeg or cardamom for a deeper flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until just incorporated. Spread half of this batter into the prepared pan.
- In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Spread half of the cinnamon mixture over the batter. Add remaining batter on top, then swirl in the rest of the cinnamon mixture with a knife.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.
- While cooling, make the glaze: beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until creamy.
- Drizzle glaze over warm bars. Let set before cutting into squares.
What to Serve With Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars
These bars are versatile and pair beautifully with:
- A hot cup of coffee or spiced chai
- A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream
- Fresh fruit like berries for a lighter balance
- Whipped cream for extra indulgence

Tips for Success
- Don’t overbake—the bars should be soft and slightly gooey in the center.
- Swirl gently—too much mixing will muddy the cinnamon layers.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth glaze.
- Cut once cooled for neat, bakery-style squares.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold ingredients – This can cause the batter and glaze to separate.
- Overbaking – The bars will dry out if left in too long.
- Too much flour – Always spoon and level flour, don’t pack it.
- Skipping parchment – Makes it harder to lift and slice neatly.
How to Store & Reheat
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- In the fridge: Lasts up to 5 days, but bring to room temperature before serving.
- In the freezer: Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months.
- To reheat: Microwave for 10–15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Bake and glaze them a day in advance; they’ll taste even better as the flavors settle.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely use two pans or a larger sheet pan for parties.
Can I use store-bought frosting instead of glaze? Yes, but homemade glaze adds the authentic cinnamon roll flavor.
Are these more like cake or brownies? They’re soft and chewy like blondies but with the swirl and glaze of cinnamon rolls.
Nutritional Info (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 32g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are the perfect way to enjoy the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls without the hassle of yeast dough. They’re soft, sweet, swirled with cinnamon sugar, and topped with a luscious glaze that makes them irresistible. Whether you bake them for a family breakfast, bring them to a holiday gathering, or treat yourself on a cozy afternoon, these bars are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
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