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Cinnamon Roll Bars Recipe

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4.2 from 5 reviews

Delicious Cinnamon Roll Bars that combine the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make bar form. These bars feature a soft, buttery base with a sweet cinnamon-spiced cream cheese frosting, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day.

Ingredients

For Bars

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 egg, at room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1½ tsp vanilla bean paste
  • ¾ tsp cinnamon
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350° F and line an 8"x8" pan with foil that overhangs the sides to allow easy removal later. Grease both the foil and the pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare dry ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the flour, cinnamon, and salt, then set aside.
  3. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
  4. Combine dry and wet ingredients: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
  5. Form the bars: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and press it evenly into place using damp fingertips to prevent sticking.
  6. Bake the bars: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
  7. Make the frosting: Using a stand mixer, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
  8. Add flavor to frosting: Mix in the vanilla bean paste and cinnamon until the flavor is evenly distributed.
  9. Incorporate powdered sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
  10. Frost the bars: Once the bars are fully cooled, spread or pipe the frosting evenly over the top. Optionally, add sprinkles for decoration.
  11. Storage: Store the cinnamon roll bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to one week. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your homemade cinnamon roll bars!

Notes

  • Use room temperature egg and cream cheese to ensure smooth batter and frosting without lumps.
  • Vanilla bean paste adds a richer vanilla flavor; if unavailable, pure vanilla extract can be substituted.
  • Pressing the batter with damp fingertips helps achieve an even, smooth surface before baking.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of the frosting.
  • Store bars refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent frosting spoilage.