By Emmett Hickle 
Cinnamon Bars Recipe
Cinnamon bars are a delicious and hearty dessert that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. These soft, chewy treats combine the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon with a buttery base, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a party, or simply indulging a sweet tooth, this cinnamon bars recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the preparation steps, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring the cinnamon bars rise properly while baking.
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Prepare the Baking Pan: Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal of the bars. Lightly grease the parchment with cooking spray.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside.
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Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a separate medium bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop until bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until just combined. This will create a creamy and rich texture that will contribute to the softness of the bars.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the bars dense and chewy.
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Pour into the Baking Pan: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed to promote even baking.
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Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Cut: Allow the cinnamon bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper to lift them out. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting them into squares or bars.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Bars
- Customize with Mix-Ins: For a delightful twist, consider adding nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
- Frosting Options: Top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness or even cream cheese frosting for a decadent touch.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic breakdown of the cinnamon bars per serving (1 bar, approximately 16 total servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 90mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 26g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Protein | 2g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may differ slightly, resulting in a denser bar.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free cinnamon bars, swap in a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure the Other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What are the most popular variations of cinnamon bars?
Some popular variations include adding chocolate chips, a streusel topping, or incorporating apples and nuts for a more complex flavor.
Can I freeze cinnamon bars?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled bars individually or in a batch with foil and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
References
For more delicious cinnamon bar variations, check out Better Homes & Gardens for additional inspiration.
By following this cinnamon bars recipe, you will not only create a delightful dessert but also warm your home with the delicious aroma of cinnamon baking. Enjoy these sweet treats with your family and friends, and watch them disappear in no time!