Sarah Mitchell
If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls but crave something a little more indulgent and handheld, these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are going to steal your heart! They have all the warm, spiced flavors of a classic cinnamon roll, but in the form of soft, creamy dessert bars with a buttery crust and a luscious cream cheese swirl. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or just a cozy weekend treat, these bars will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe).
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – These provide the perfect buttery base for the bars. Tip: Use a food processor to crush the crackers for an even texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and helps hold the crust together.
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened – The creamy star of the show! Make sure it’s at room temperature to avoid lumps.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese layer just enough to balance the tang.
- 1 large egg – Helps set the cream cheese layer.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a hint of warmth and depth.
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Combines perfectly with cinnamon for that signature flavor.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon – The soul of a cinnamon roll in spice form.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – Helps the swirl bake into the bars beautifully.
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar – Creates the classic drizzle on top.
- 2 tbsp milk – Thin enough to drizzle but creamy enough to stick.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract – A touch of flavor for the glaze.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to create an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until it forms a paste. Drop small dollops of the cinnamon mixture on top of the cream cheese layer. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl it gently, creating that beautiful cinnamon roll pattern.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cream cheese layer is set and the edges are lightly golden. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before chilling them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Step 5: Add the Glaze
Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle it over the chilled bars in a zigzag pattern. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Toothpick or skewer for swirling
- Spatula for spreading layers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different crust instead of graham crackers?
Absolutely! A shortbread or gingersnap crust would work beautifully here and add even more flavor to the bars.
Do I have to chill the bars before serving?
Yes, chilling is key to letting the layers set properly. It also makes slicing much easier.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars taste even better the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars?
Yes, they freeze well! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
Mascarpone cheese can be used as a substitute, though it will result in a slightly milder flavor.
How do I avoid lumps in the cream cheese layer?
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature and beat it thoroughly with the sugar before adding other ingredients.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the graham crackers for a gluten-free version. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
I hope you loved making (and eating!) these Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars as much as I do. They’re sweet, spiced, and absolutely irresistible—the perfect dessert to share with friends and family. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest for later or share it with your friends on Facebook using the buttons below. Happy baking! 😊
