Introduction

Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars are a delicious twist on your favorite morning treat, transformed into an indulgent dessert bar. Layers of cinnamon rolls are baked with a buttery, brown sugar filling and topped with a creamy, dreamy glaze. These bars are perfect for sharing or savoring solo with a cup of coffee.

Three stacked dessert bars on a white plate, each bar showing three distinct layers: the bottom layer is a golden-brown crumbly crust, the middle layer is a dark, glossy, sticky filling with some texture, and the top layer is a thick white icing with smooth, thick zigzag lines drizzled on top. The background is a soft brown fabric on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Two (2) cans (8 counts each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing packets reserved)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the paper to overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Separate the cinnamon rolls from the enclosed icing packets and set the icing aside.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract; stir until well blended. Unroll and slightly flatten half (8 rolls) of the cinnamon rolls and press them evenly onto the bottom of the prepared pan to form a cohesive crust layer.
Step 3: Pour the butter and brown sugar mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll base. Gently arrange the remaining 8 cinnamon rolls on top of the filling, placing them side-by-side across the pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Step 4: While the bars are cooling slightly, prepare the “bliss” glaze. In a small bowl, combine the reserved icing packets, the softened cream cheese, and the powdered sugar. Whisk vigorously until the glaze is smooth, thick, and lump-free.
Step 5: Drizzle the prepared cream cheese glaze liberally over the warm bars, ensuring even coverage. Allow the Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars to cool completely before removing them from the pan using the parchment paper edges and cutting into squares for serving.

Tips & Variations

Use the back of a measuring cup to firmly press the first layer of flattened cinnamon rolls into the pan to create a solid crust and prevent filling from seeping through.
Serve warm with vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch.
For a gooey center, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds before enjoying.

Storage

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, as the cream cheese glaze requires chilling for safety. When ready to eat, reheat individual pieces briefly in the microwave to soften the glaze and warm the bars.

How to Serve

A stack of three square dessert bars sits on a white plate, each bar has three layers: a bottom layer of golden-brown crumbly crust, a thick middle layer of dark, sticky, and shiny filling, and a top layer of creamy white icing drizzled in uneven stripes, adding texture and contrast. The edges of the bars look crunchy, and the filling appears moist and rich. The background includes soft brown fabric folds with a white marbled texture surface underneath the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated ones?

Yes, you can substitute homemade cinnamon rolls, but make sure they are fully unbaked and soft enough to roll out and press into the pan. Adjust baking time as needed.

What can I do if the glaze isn’t thickening properly?

If the glaze is too runny, add a little more powdered sugar and whisk again until it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency.