Name: Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups (135 g) rolled oats; ½ cup (60 g) all‑purpose flour; ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar (for the base); ¼ cup (57 g) melted butter (for the base); ¼ tsp (1.5 g) salt; ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar (for the filling); ¼ cup (57 g) softened butter (for the filling); 1 tbsp (8 g) ground cinnamon (for the filling); ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar (for the glaze); 1–2 tbsp (15–30 ml) milk (for the glaze); ¼ tsp (1.25 ml) vanilla extract (for the glaze)

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A chewy, comforting breakfast-or-snack bar, these Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars bring the warm, sweet swirl of a cinnamon roll into a hearty oat-based square, finished with a smooth vanilla glaze. I love how these bars come together so easily and offer that nostalgic bakery-style cinnamon flavor in every bite. They’re perfect for a cozy morning or a satisfying afternoon treat.

Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ cups (135 g) rolled oats

½ cup (60 g) all‑purpose flour

¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar (for the base)

¼ cup (57 g) melted butter (for the base)

¼ tsp (1.5 g) salt

¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar (for the filling)

¼ cup (57 g) softened butter (for the filling)

1 tbsp (8 g) ground cinnamon (for the filling)

½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar (for the glaze)

1‑2 tbsp (15‑30 ml) milk (for the glaze)

¼ tsp (1.25 ml) vanilla extract (for the glaze)

Directions

I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang so I can lift the bars out easily once they’re done.

In a large mixing bowl, I combine the rolled oats, flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, melted butter, and salt. I mix everything until it’s well blended.

I press this oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using a spoon or my hands to really compact it.

In another bowl, I cream together the softened butter, ¼ cup brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until it’s smooth and fluffy.

I spread this cinnamon mixture evenly over the oat base, and sometimes I swirl it lightly with a knife for that cinnamon roll look.

I bake the bars for about 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center looks set.

While the bars cool a bit, I whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (starting with 1 tablespoon and adding more as needed), and vanilla extract to make the glaze.

Once the bars have cooled slightly, I drizzle the glaze generously over the top. I wait until the glaze sets before cutting the bars into 9 squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 9 hearty squares.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per square

Variations

I like to add chopped pecans or walnuts to the oat base for a bit of crunch.

For a slightly tangy twist, I sometimes swap part of the milk in the glaze with cream cheese.

If I want to go a bit healthier, I’ll use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar and swap in whole wheat flour.

A dash of nutmeg or cardamom in the filling brings a warming spice twist.

To make them dairy-free, I use vegan butter and plant-based milk in both the base and glaze.

Storage/Reheating

I store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I need to keep them longer, I refrigerate them for up to a week. For freezing, I wrap them individually and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, I microwave a bar for about 10–15 seconds if I want that warm, just-baked feel again.

FAQs

How do I know when the bars are fully baked?

I check that the edges are golden brown and the center doesn’t jiggle when I gently shake the pan. That’s how I know they’re set.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend and use certified gluten-free oats. The texture stays deliciously chewy.

Is it okay to double the recipe?

Absolutely. I double the ingredients and bake it in a 9x13-inch pan. I usually extend the baking time by about 5–10 minutes and keep an eye on the edges.

Can I make these without the glaze?

Definitely. I sometimes skip the glaze if I want something less sweet. The cinnamon filling still gives plenty of flavor.

What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

I wait until the bars are completely cool and the glaze is set. Then I use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat, square pieces.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars are one of my favorite ways to enjoy that classic cinnamon roll flavor without the time and effort of yeasted dough. They’re easy, satisfying, and versatile—great for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. I love how they fill the kitchen with the smell of cinnamon while baking and how they always disappear quickly once served. Give them a try and see just how comforting a simple oat bar can be.

Recipe:

Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 9 bars
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Bars are soft, chewy, and packed with comforting cinnamon flavor. With a buttery oat base, rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and a sweet vanilla glaze, they offer all the flavor of a cinnamon roll in an easy-to-make bar form. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until well combined.
Press the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter, ¼ cup brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and fluffy.
Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly over the oat base and swirl lightly with a knife, if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until edges are golden and center is set.
While bars cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk (add more as needed), and vanilla extract to make glaze.
Drizzle glaze over warm bars and allow it to set before cutting into 9 squares.