Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe – Easy Dessert for a Crowd

The first time I made these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars, my kitchen smelled so good that my neighbor literally knocked on my door to ask what was baking. I kid you not—the buttery aroma mixed with swirls of cinnamon and vanilla is just pure magic. You know that feeling when you walk into a bakery and all your worries seem to melt away? That’s exactly what these bars deliver, except you get to share them (or not) with everyone around you.

I stumbled onto this recipe during a holiday potluck panic. I wanted something with all the cozy comfort of cinnamon rolls, but without the fuss of yeast and waiting forever for dough to rise. Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars were born from necessity, but they’ve stuck around because they’re just that good. They’re quick to whip up, super forgiving (even if you’re not a baking pro), and the crowd goes wild every time. Seriously, I can’t count how many times I’ve been asked for the recipe at family gatherings and school events.

What I love most is how these bars combine the gooey, cinnamon-sugar filling of a classic roll with a soft, cakey base—plus a creamy frosting that’s as easy as it gets. If you’re feeding a crowd, these are the answer. They slice up perfectly, travel well, and taste amazing whether warm or at room temp. As someone who’s tested dozens of bar recipes, I can honestly say these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are my go-to for any occasion. They’re ideal for brunches, bake sales, birthdays—you name it. And if you sneak a piece for breakfast, I won’t judge (I do it, too!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s face it, there are a million dessert bar recipes out there. But these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are in a league of their own. After baking them for everything from baby showers to late-night snacks, I’ve picked up a few tricks that really set them apart. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to this recipe:

• Quick & Easy: No waiting for dough to rise—these bars come together in about 45 minutes, including baking time. Perfect for last-minute plans or sudden sweet cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably have everything you need already—flour, sugar, butter, eggs, cinnamon, and cream cheese. No weird specialty products required.
• Perfect for Crowds: The recipe yields a big batch (about 24 bars), so it’s fantastic for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. No individual rolling or shaping—just spread, swirl, and bake.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Every time I bring these out, kids and adults both rave. I’ve had people say it’s like eating a cinnamon roll and coffee cake all in one bite.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The sweet, buttery base is soft but sturdy, the cinnamon-sugar filling is gooey and fragrant, and the tangy cream cheese frosting takes it over the top. Genuinely crave-worthy.

If you’ve ever struggled with traditional cinnamon rolls (I’ve had more than a few dough disasters), you’ll appreciate the simplicity here. Mixing the filling right into the batter means every bite has that cinnamon roll magic. Plus, the bars hold their shape—no messy unraveling or dry edges.

Honestly, Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are comfort food with a twist: all the flavor, none of the hassle. They’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or just treating yourself. If you love classic cinnamon rolls but want something faster and easier, this is your new favorite dessert. There’s something about that first bite—warm, sweet, and just a little bit gooey—that makes everyone smile. You’re going to love them!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses straightforward, everyday ingredients to create seriously swoon-worthy Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few pointers from my kitchen to yours:

• For the Bar Base:
  • 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour (I like King Arthur for consistent results)
  • 1 cup (220g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted (adds richness and a soft crumb)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature (helps everything bind together)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk (can swap for almond milk)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (use real vanilla if you can—it makes a difference)
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
• For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling:
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (210g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon (freshly ground if possible—so much more fragrant)
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tbsp milk (for thinning, as needed)

Ingredient Tips:

• If you need gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend. I’ve tried Bob’s Red Mill with good results.
• Dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and coconut cream cheese (the bars will still be dreamy).
• Want a holiday twist? Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling.
• If you’re short on brown sugar, a mix of white sugar and a touch of molasses works in a pinch.
• Fresh eggs really do make the bars fluffier. If yours are cold, let them sit in warm water for a few minutes before using.

Most of these are pantry staples, which means you can whip up Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars anytime—no special shopping trip needed. If you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself making them on repeat!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy equipment to make Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars. Here’s what I use (plus a few tips for budget-friendly swaps):

• 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking pan: This size gives you thick, bakery-style bars. Metal pans bake more evenly, but glass works too.
• Mixing bowls: At least two—one for the batter, one for the cinnamon filling.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes mixing the frosting easy, but you can totally use a whisk and elbow grease.
• Spatula: For scraping down the sides and spreading the batter smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy matters for baking, so don’t eyeball if you can help it.
• Butter knife or toothpick: For swirling the cinnamon filling into the batter (a butter knife works best for those pretty swirls).
• Wire rack: For cooling the bars before frosting. If you don’t have one, just let the pan cool on a clean towel.

If you’re just starting out, you can get most of these at any big box store. I’ve made these bars with thrifted pans and dollar-store spatulas—no need for expensive gear. Just make sure your pan is greased well so nothing sticks (learned that the hard way!).

Preparation Method

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars. Trust me, it’s easier than you think—just follow these steps and you’ll have a tray of irresistible bars ready to go:

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking pan with butter or nonstick spray. Line with parchment paper for extra easy removal.
2. Mix the bar base: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups (280g) flour, 1 cup (220g) sugar, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup (115g) melted butter, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup (120ml) milk, and 1 tsp vanilla. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined—don’t overmix. The batter will be thick and a little sticky.
3. Spread the batter: Transfer batter to your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. It doesn’t have to be perfect (trust me, the cinnamon swirl covers any uneven spots).
4. Prepare the cinnamon filling: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup (115g) softened butter, 1 cup (210g) packed brown sugar, and 2 tbsp cinnamon until smooth and creamy. If your butter is too cold, zap it in the microwave for 10 seconds.
5. Swirl the filling: Drop spoonfuls of cinnamon filling over the batter. Use a butter knife to gently swirl it into the batter. Don’t go overboard—big swirls look pretty and keep the filling gooey.
6. Bake: Place pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Bars should be golden at the edges and just set in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs (not raw batter).
7. Cool: Let bars cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then lift out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. If you frost while warm, the frosting melts into a glaze (which is honestly delicious, but messier).
8. Make the frosting: Beat 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, 2 tbsp butter, 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, and 1/2 tsp vanilla until smooth. Add 1–2 tbsp milk, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. It should be thick but spreadable.
9. Frost: Spread frosting over cooled bars. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon if you want a fancy finish.
10. Slice and serve: Cut into 24 squares. Serve warm, at room temp, or straight-from-the-fridge (they’re good every way!).

Troubleshooting: If your bars sink in the middle, they may be underbaked—pop them back in for another 3–5 minutes. For super gooey centers, slightly underbake (but not raw). If your frosting is too runny, just add more powdered sugar.

Pro tip: Use parchment paper for easy lifting and perfect slices. And don’t worry if your swirls aren’t “Instagram perfect”—they’ll still taste AMAZING.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

After baking these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars more times than I can count, I’ve picked up some tips that make all the difference.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs and butter come to room temp for a smoother batter and better rise. Cold eggs can make the batter lumpy—learned that after a few wonky batches!
• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, stir just until everything comes together. Overmixing can make your bars tough instead of tender.
• Swirling Technique: For distinct, gooey cinnamon swirls, use a butter knife and make big loops—don’t overwork it. Too much swirling blends the filling into the batter and you lose those pretty streaks.
• Baking Time: Ovens vary! Start checking at 25 minutes. If the center jiggles, give it a few more minutes. Bars will firm up as they cool, so don’t stress if they seem soft right out of the oven.
• Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add milk a teaspoon at a time. Too thin? Add powdered sugar. The sweet spot is a frosting that’s thick enough to hold up, but soft enough to spread easily.
• Multitasking: While bars are baking, whip up the frosting and clean your bowls. That way, you’re ready to frost as soon as they cool.
• Personal Fail: Once, I tried using margarine instead of butter and the bars tasted flat—definitely stick with real butter for the best flavor!

Consistency is key: always measure ingredients carefully and keep an eye on baking time. These Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are pretty forgiving, though, so don’t sweat the small stuff. Just enjoy the process and the amazing results!

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars is how easy they are to customize. Here are some tried-and-true variations—plus a personal favorite:

• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. I’ve used Bob’s Red Mill and the bars turn out just as soft and flavorful.
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and plant-based cream cheese for the frosting. Almond or oat milk works nicely in the batter, and the bars stay rich and tender.
• Holiday Spice: Add 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling for a festive twist. I tried this for a Christmas brunch, and it was a hit with my spice-loving relatives!
• Fruit Swirl: Swirl a few tablespoons of raspberry or strawberry jam into the cinnamon layer before baking. It adds a pop of tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet cinnamon.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon filling before swirling. Adds texture and a little toasty flavor.
• Cooking Methods: These bars bake best in a conventional oven, but you can use a convection setting—just reduce the temp by 25°F (about 15°C) and check a few minutes early.
• Allergen Substitutions: For egg-free bars, try using a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water per egg). The texture is slightly different but still delicious.

My favorite? Adding orange zest to the frosting for a fresh citrus note—so good! Don’t be afraid to experiment; these bars are super flexible.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a dream to serve and store (no awkward slices or messy pans). Here’s how I do it:

• Serving: Slice into squares and serve at room temperature or gently warmed in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. They look gorgeous on a platter sprinkled with extra cinnamon or a drizzle of glaze.
• Pairing Ideas: Serve with hot coffee, chai, or a tall glass of cold milk. They’re also great alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
• Storage: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week; the flavors actually develop and get even better after a day or two.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
• Reheating: Warm bars in the microwave for 10–20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 5 minutes. The frosting gets a little melty—yum!

Honestly, these bars never last long in my house, but they’re just as good on day two as fresh from the oven. Perfect for prepping ahead!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition profile for Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars (per bar, approx. 24 bars per batch):

• Calories: ~180
• Fat: 8g (mostly from butter and cream cheese)
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 15g

Health Highlights:

• Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and can help support healthy blood sugar levels.
• Using whole milk adds a little calcium and protein.
• Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations are easy for those with sensitivities.
• Potential allergens: wheat, dairy, eggs, tree nuts (if using nuts).

While these aren’t exactly a health food, they’re a lovely treat—balance is key. For me, sharing homemade desserts like Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars is part of my wellness routine (mental health counts!).

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and utterly irresistible, Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are it. They pack all the cinnamon roll flavor you crave into a simple, shareable bar—no yeast, no fuss, just pure bliss. Whether you’re baking for a party or just want something sweet with your morning coffee, these bars deliver every time.

Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices, nuts, or dairy-free swaps. Honestly, this recipe has become a family staple at our house, and I hope it becomes one for you, too. I love how one pan can turn an ordinary day into something special—especially when you get to share the goodness.

If you give these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars a try, let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear your twists and see your creations. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends (they’ll thank you, promise). Happy baking—here’s to more cozy, cinnamon-scented moments!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars taste even better the next day. Just store them in an airtight container and frost before serving if you want the frosting fresh.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm gently before serving.

What’s the best way to get neat, clean slices?

Let the bars cool completely before slicing, and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Parchment paper lining helps, too.

Can I use store-bought cream cheese frosting?

You can, but homemade is definitely tastier and takes just minutes to make. If you’re in a rush, store-bought works in a pinch.

How do I make these gluten-free or dairy-free?

Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend and use plant-based butter and cream cheese. The bars stay delicious with these swaps!

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars

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• Author: Emily Rhodes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars 1x

Print Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars combine the gooey cinnamon-sugar filling of classic rolls with a soft, cakey base and creamy frosting. Quick to make and perfect for sharing, these bars are a crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed (for filling)
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon (for filling)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 1–2 tbsp milk (for frosting, as needed)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined. Batter will be thick.
5. Spread batter evenly in prepared pan using a spatula.
6. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
7. Drop spoonfuls of cinnamon filling over the batter. Swirl gently with a butter knife.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until edges are golden and center is just set. Toothpick should come out mostly clean.
9. Cool bars in pan for 10–15 minutes, then lift out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add milk as needed for desired consistency.
11. Spread frosting over cooled bars. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon if desired.
12. Slice into 24 squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For gluten-free bars, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Dairy-free adaptations work with plant-based butter and cream cheese. Add nutmeg or cardamom for holiday spice, or swirl in fruit jam for variation. Bars slice best when cooled completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (1/24 of recipe)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 15
• Sodium: 120
• Fat: 8
• Saturated Fat: 5
• Carbohydrates: 25
• Fiber: 1
• Protein: 2

Keywords: cinnamon roll bars, dessert bars, easy cinnamon dessert, crowd-pleaser, potluck dessert, brunch bars, cream cheese frosting, cinnamon swirl, no yeast, quick baking