Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars

Cinnamon roll bliss bars were born on a cold Saturday when I was craving the flavors of a gooey cinnamon roll but didn’t have the time or patience to wait for dough to rise so I improvised with a simple vanilla batter swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped it off with a glossy glaze. The smell alone had everyone wandering into the kitchen before they were even out of the oven and after the first bite I knew this shortcut version would become a regular favorite.

Now I make them whenever I want something sweet and cozy without the fuss because they come together in one bowl and bake into soft bars with swirls of cinnamon and that signature icing on top. They’re perfect for brunch dessert or even gifting during the holidays and every time I cut them into squares I’m reminded that sometimes the simplest bakes bring the biggest smiles.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• All-purpose flour – Gives the bars structure and a soft bite
• Baking powder – Helps them rise slightly for a tender texture
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and creates a moist crumb
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the base and gives it that classic vanilla cake flavor
• Eggs – Bind everything together and keep the texture light
• Vanilla extract – Brings warm bakery-style flavor to the bars
• Brown sugar – Combined with cinnamon to create those iconic cinnamon swirls
• Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and that familiar roll flavor throughout
• Powdered sugar – The base of the smooth glaze
• Milk – Thins the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – One for the batter and one for the glaze
• Hand mixer or whisk – To cream the butter and sugar until fluffy
• 8×8 or 9×9 baking pan – The perfect size for thick chewy bars
• Spatula – For folding and spreading the batter evenly into the pan
• Toothpick – Helps swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter
• Wire rack – Allows the bars to cool evenly before glazing

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by preheating my oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper or lightly greasing it so the bars lift out easily.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, I cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and pale.

Step 3:

Then I add in the eggs and vanilla extract and beat until everything is fully combined and smooth.

Step 4:

I mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt just until the batter comes together then I spread it evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 5:

In a small bowl, I mix the brown sugar and cinnamon then sprinkle it generously over the top of the batter.

Step 6:

Using a toothpick or knife, I swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter to create that classic spiral pattern.

Step 7:

I bake the bars for 25–28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are golden.

Step 8:

While the bars cool, I whisk together powdered sugar and milk to make the glaze then I drizzle it over the cooled bars and let it set before slicing into squares.

Tips

If you want extra gooey swirls I recommend doubling the cinnamon sugar mixture and swirling half into the batter before topping with the rest. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon mix for more depth. These bars freeze beautifully—just skip the glaze until you’re ready to serve them.

Ways to Serve

I love serving these with a cup of coffee or chai in the morning or warming them slightly for dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They’re great for brunch buffets, potlucks, or holiday trays and always look beautiful with that shiny glaze on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars ahead of time?

Yes they stay soft for several days and the flavors even deepen if you store them overnight.

Can I use cream cheese frosting instead of glaze on Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars?

Absolutely it’s a delicious swap that makes them even more like traditional cinnamon rolls.

How do I store Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars?

I keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars a try! They’re a quick way to capture all the comfort of a cinnamon roll in one simple pan and I’d love to see how yours turn out or hear what you think. Don’t forget to tag me if you share!

Happy Cooking!

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