Description
If you’re craving the warm, cozy flavors of a cinnamon roll but want something easier to share and serve, these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are exactly what you need! With a buttery base, swirls of cinnamon-sugar, and a dreamy cream cheese glaze on top, every bite delivers that signature cinnamon roll experience—only in bar form. These are perfect for brunches, holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want to impress without the hassle of yeast or rolling dough.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Bliss Bar Base:
-
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
2 large eggs
-
1 tbsp vanilla extract
-
2½ cups all-purpose flour
-
1 tsp baking powder
-
½ tsp baking soda
-
½ tsp salt
For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling:
-
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
-
½ cup brown sugar
-
2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
-
4 oz cream cheese, softened
-
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
2–3 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
Lightly grease the parchment for easy release.
Step 2: Make the Bar Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until a thick, cookie dough-like batter forms.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
Mix until smooth and set aside.
Step 4: Layer & Swirl
Press about ¾ of the bar batter into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
Spoon the cinnamon mixture evenly over the base and spread gently.
Drop remaining bar batter in spoonfuls over the top—it’s okay if some filling peeks through.
Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together for a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes, then lift out using the parchment and transfer to a cooling rack.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and 2 tbsp milk. Beat until silky and spreadable.
If needed, add more milk a teaspoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
Step 7: Glaze & Slice
Once the bars are completely cooled, drizzle or spread the cream cheese glaze over the top.
Use a spatula or spoon to evenly distribute.
Let the glaze set slightly, then cut into squares or bars.
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients – Helps everything blend smoothly.
Don’t Overbake – Bars continue to cook slightly as they cool, so pull them when just golden.
Use Parchment – Makes removing and cutting the bars much easier.
Cool Completely – Glaze will melt if bars are still warm.
Double the Cinnamon – If you’re a cinnamon lover, add an extra teaspoon to the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American