Amazing Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars Recipe Perfect for Dessert

Name: Amazing Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons butter, softened; 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk

Posted on August 15, 2025

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There’s something magical about the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon drifting through your kitchen, isn’t there? These Amazing Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are the perfect dessert treat to satisfy your cravings for that classic cinnamon roll flavor—without all the rolling and waiting! Honestly, they’re like little squares of happiness that you can whip up quickly and share with loved ones.

This recipe takes the best parts of a cinnamon roll—the gooey cinnamon sugar filling, the soft and buttery dough, and the creamy glaze—and transforms them into portable bars. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday dessert table, looking for a sweet snack to bring to a potluck, or simply indulging in some cozy baking, these bars are a winner. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, and dare I say, even beginner-friendly!

Here’s the best part: these bliss bars are just as delightful to eat as they are to make. Let’s dive into the story behind this recipe and why it deserves a spot in your dessert rotation.

Recipe Story/Background

Cinnamon rolls have a timeless charm, don’t they? Originating from Sweden, where they’re known as “kanelbullar,” cinnamon rolls have long been a staple in Nordic baking culture. They eventually made their way into American kitchens, becoming a beloved breakfast and dessert treat. These Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are my playful twist on that classic tradition, inspired by my never-ending love for all things cinnamon sugar.

I first came up with this idea during a busy holiday season when I didn’t have the time to make traditional cinnamon rolls from scratch. Rolling dough, waiting for it to rise, and carefully slicing rolls? It just wasn’t in the cards that year. So, I thought, why not simplify the process while keeping all the flavors intact? The result was these bliss bars, and they’ve been a hit ever since.

What makes them truly special is their versatility. They’re perfect for cozy winter gatherings, but honestly, I’ve made them in the summer, served them alongside iced coffee, and they’re just as delightful. They’re also incredibly easy to pack up and share, which makes them ideal for gifting during the holidays or bringing to a bake sale. Trust me, these bars will become a tradition in your kitchen, just like they have in mine!

Ingredient Discussion

Let’s talk about the ingredients that make these Amazing Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars so irresistible. Each one plays a role in creating the texture, flavor, and overall wow factor of this dessert.

All-purpose flour: The base of our dough. You’ll want to use fresh, high-quality flour for the best results. If you’re gluten-free, you can try substituting with a gluten-free all-purpose blend—just make sure it’s one designed for baking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal here, as it gives us control over the salt level. Look for butter with a high fat content for that rich, buttery flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, plant-based butter works well.
Brown sugar: This ingredient brings the deep, caramel-like sweetness to the filling. Light brown sugar works beautifully, but if you prefer a more robust flavor, dark brown sugar is a great choice.
Granulated sugar: Used in both the dough and the glaze. It adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon.
Cinnamon: The star of the show! Make sure you’re using fresh, aromatic cinnamon for maximum flavor. If you want a little twist, you could mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom.
Milk: The liquid for both the dough and glaze. Whole milk provides richness, but you can use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Cream cheese: Essential for the glaze! It adds tang and creaminess that perfectly complements the sweet, spiced bars.
Vanilla extract: A little goes a long way. It rounds out the flavors and adds warmth. Always use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
Eggs: They provide structure and moisture to the dough. Large eggs are your best bet.

Pro tip: If you’re shopping for ingredients, grab the best cinnamon you can find—it’s worth it! And don’t forget to let your butter and cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing.

Equipment Needed

To make these Amazing Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars, you don’t need anything fancy. Here’s the list:

Mixing bowls: A couple of medium and large bowls will do the trick.
Hand mixer or stand mixer: While you can mix by hand, a mixer makes it much easier to combine the ingredients smoothly.
9×13-inch baking pan: The perfect size for these bars. If you don’t have one, you can use two smaller pans—just watch the baking time.
Spatula: For spreading the dough and filling evenly.
Whisk: Great for mixing the glaze until it’s silky smooth.
Parchment paper: Helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.

If you don’t have a mixer, don’t worry—I’ve made these bars using just a sturdy wooden spoon and a little elbow grease. It works just fine!

Preparation Method

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Mix the dough: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (230g) butter and 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, and mix until fully incorporated. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Add dry ingredients: Gradually add 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon baking powder to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, combine ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Layer the bars: Spread half of the dough into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough. Gently spread the remaining dough on top—it’s okay if it’s a bit uneven.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely before glazing.
Make the glaze: Beat together 4 ounces (115g) softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth.
Glaze the bars: Spread the glaze generously over the cooled bars. Slice and serve!

Warning: Your kitchen will smell heavenly during baking—it’s hard to wait for the bars to cool, but trust me, it’s worth it!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to make your Amazing Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars come out perfectly every time:

Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature. This helps everything mix evenly.
Don’t overmix: When combining the dry ingredients into the wet, mix just until it’s combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars.
Even layering: Spreading the top layer of dough can be tricky. Use lightly greased hands or a spatula to make it easier.
Cooling is key: Let the bars cool completely before adding the glaze, or it will melt and run.
Make ahead: You can bake the bars a day ahead and glaze them right before serving for maximum freshness.

I’ve learned these tricks through trial and error, so take it from me—patience and precision go a long way!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations:

Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
Dairy-free: Substitute plant-based butter and cream cheese, and use almond milk for the glaze.
Nutty twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar filling for some crunch.
Seasonal flavors: Mix in a pinch of pumpkin spice for autumn vibes or a splash of almond extract for a holiday touch.
Mini bars: Use a smaller pan and cut into bite-sized pieces for party-friendly servings.

I once tried adding orange zest to the glaze, and it was surprisingly refreshing—definitely worth a try!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are best served slightly warm or at room temperature, paired with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle a little extra glaze on top before serving for added oomph.

To store, place the bars in an airtight container. They’ll keep well at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If freezing, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag—they’ll last up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them thaw at room temperature.

Pro tip: The flavors deepen after a day, so don’t hesitate to make them ahead!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick rundown of the estimated nutritional values per bar (assuming you cut the pan into 16 servings):

Calories: 210
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 20g

While these bars are definitely a treat, you’ll benefit from the antioxidants in cinnamon and the mood-boosting carbs that make them so comforting. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your sugar intake!

Conclusion

There’s no denying that these Amazing Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a dessert worth making. They’re easy to prepare, packed with warm cinnamon flavor, and perfect for sharing—or indulging all on your own (no judgment here!).

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing, this recipe checks all the boxes. Customize it to suit your preferences, experiment with variations, and make it your own. That’s the beauty of baking!

I’d love to hear how your bars turn out. Leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or share your own twist on the recipe. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with cinnamon-scented bliss!

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the bars a day ahead and glaze them before serving for the freshest taste.

What’s the best way to store these bars?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it’s designed for baking for the best results.

What can I serve with these bars?

Pair them with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert!