Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars Recipe

If you love the cozy, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but want something a little easier to grab on the go, you are going to adore these Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars. Imagine a chewy oat base layered with sweet, buttery cinnamon filling then topped with a creamy vanilla glaze—a wholesome twist on your favorite bakery treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. These bars bring together the best of cinnamon rolls and hearty oats to create a wonderfully satisfying bite that’s as delightful as it is simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these few straightforward ingredients is all it takes to bring our Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars to life. Each one plays a key role—from the rolled oats adding heartiness and texture to the cinnamon filling infusing that iconic warm spice that makes every bite memorable.

• Rolled Oats (1 1/2 cups): The chewy and wholesome base that gives structure and substance to the bars.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup): Helps bind the oat mixture firmly for perfect slicing.
• Brown Sugar, divided (1/4 cup base + 1/4 cup filling): Adds a rich sweetness with a hint of molasses to both layers.
• Melted Butter (1/4 cup for base): Provides moisture and richness to the oat crust.
• Softened Butter (1/4 cup for filling): Creams with sugar to create the luscious cinnamon swirl layer.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tbsp): Delivers that signature warm, spicy kick reminiscent of classic cinnamon rolls.
• Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup): The base for the smooth, sugary glaze that finishes the bars beautifully.
• Milk (1–2 tbsp): Thins the glaze to just the right consistency for drizzling.
• Vanilla Extract (1/4 tsp): Adds a lovely fragrant depth to the glaze.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper. This ensures your bars won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to focus on the fun part—baking!

Step 2: Mix the Oat Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, melted butter, and salt. Stir everything together until it forms a well-blended mixture. This oat base is the sturdy foundation, so be sure to mix thoroughly.

Step 3: Press the Base into the Pan

Firmly press the oat mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer. Pressing firmly here is crucial; it helps the bars hold their shape and keeps them from crumbling when you slice them later.

Step 4: Create and Spread the Cinnamon Filling

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until fully combined and smooth. Then, spread this glorious cinnamon mixture evenly over the oat base. For a little extra flair and swirl effect, gently run a knife through the filling.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown and the center has set. Keep an eye on the bars to prevent overbaking—that’s key to keeping them tender yet structured.

Step 6: Make the Vanilla Glaze

While the bars cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Start with 1 tablespoon of milk and add more if needed to reach a smooth, drizzle-friendly consistency. The sweet vanilla glaze is the irresistible finishing touch.

Step 7: Drizzle and Set

Once the bars are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set fully before slicing into 9 squares to keep that clean, neat presentation.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, dust your Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder or finely chopped toasted pecans. These little garnishes add both visual appeal and a hint of contrasting texture that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

These bars are versatile enough to pair beautifully with a cup of steaming coffee or a glass of cold milk. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or yogurt to round out the meal with bright, refreshing flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re bringing these bars to a gathering, try stacking them on a rustic wooden board drizzled with extra glaze or cutting them into smaller bite-sized pieces for a charming finger food platter. They also freeze beautifully, making them a perfect make-ahead treat to pop in lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They stay wonderfully moist and flavorful without losing their tender texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the bars individually wrapped in parchment paper and then sealed in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

To warm your bars after storage, simply microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked warmth and soft texture just like right out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats have a much firmer texture and take longer to cook, so they aren’t ideal for this recipe. Rolled oats provide the perfect tender chewiness and structure in Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars.

Is there a dairy-free way to make these bars?

Absolutely! Swap both types of butter for a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and use your favorite non-dairy milk for the glaze. The flavor and texture will still be delightful.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the bars?

Yes! Incorporating chopped walnuts, pecans, or golden raisins into the oat base can add extra crunch and bursts of sweetness. Just fold them into the oat mixture before pressing into the pan.

How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

For a thicker glaze, add less milk or sift in a touch more powdered sugar. To thin it out, add milk one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired drizzle consistency.

What’s the best way to cut the bars without crumbling?

Make sure the bars have completely cooled and the glaze has set fully. Use a sharp knife and press down firmly but gently; warming the knife slightly with hot water can also help achieve clean, smooth cuts.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t made Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars yet, I can’t recommend them enough—they’re that perfect combination of comforting, satisfying, and downright delicious. Whether you’re treating yourself to a quick breakfast or sharing a sweet snack with friends, these bars bring cozy cinnamon roll vibes in a wonderfully portable form. Give them a try and you’ll see why they quickly became one of my all-time favorites!

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