Short Description
These Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars offer all the cozy charm of your favorite bakery treat in an easy-to-make dessert bar form—rich with brown sugar, cinnamon swirls, and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bakery-style flavor at home: A soft cookie-like base with the classic cinnamon roll swirl and tangy frosting.
Easy preparation: No rolling or rising—just press, swirl, and bake.
Perfectly portioned: Great for potlucks, parties, or afternoon treats.
Make-ahead friendly: Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bars

½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (55g) brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Swirl

⅓ cup (70g) brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat until well incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter for the swirl. Drop spoonfuls over the dough and use a knife or skewer to swirl it into the top layer.
Bake for 22–26 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is just set. Do not overbake.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before adding the frosting.
For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and continue to beat until creamy.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Cut into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 16 bars
Active prep time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 22–26 minutes
Cooling and frosting time: 45 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the swirl or on top of the frosting.
Spice it up: Add nutmeg or cardamom for a spiced twist.
Glaze instead of frosting: Drizzle a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk if you prefer a lighter topping.
Cinnamon chip addition: Mix cinnamon baking chips into the dough for extra flavor.
Double batch: Use a 9×13-inch pan and double the recipe for larger gatherings.

storage/reheating

To store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To freeze: Wrap unfrosted bars in plastic and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and frost before serving.
Reheating: Serve at room temperature, or microwave individual bars for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey bite.

FAQs

Can I make these bars without the frosting?

Yes—they’re still delicious with just the cinnamon swirl topping.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for flavor and texture, but margarine can be substituted in equal amounts.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be just set—not wet or jiggly.

Can I use a hand mixer for the frosting?

Yes—a hand mixer works well for achieving a smooth, creamy texture.

Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?

If frosted with cream cheese, it’s best to refrigerate them after the first day.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes—store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let it soften slightly before pressing into the pan.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for the regular flour.

How long do these bars stay fresh?

They stay soft and moist for up to 3 days at room temperature and 5 days refrigerated.

Can I use light cream cheese for the frosting?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives the best flavor and texture.

Can I add raisins?

Yes—add a handful of raisins or chopped dried fruit to the batter or swirl for a cinnamon roll–inspired addition.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars capture all the cozy goodness of classic cinnamon rolls in a simplified bar form—complete with a tender base, buttery swirl, and rich cream cheese frosting. Whether for brunch, dessert, or a weekday treat, these bars are sure to please every time.