Description
Deliciously soft and buttery Cinnamon Roll Bars featuring a cinnamon-spiced base topped with a creamy vanilla cinnamon frosting. These bars combine the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make bar form, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 egg, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1½ tsp vanilla bean paste (see note)
- ¾ tsp cinnamon
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8"x 8" baking pan with foil, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later. Grease both the foil and pan thoroughly and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, room temperature egg, and vanilla extract. Mix vigorously until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients bowl. Stir gently just until combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Form the Bars: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan. Using damp fingertips, press the batter evenly and firmly across the bottom of the pan to create a uniform layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove from oven and let the bars cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Frosting: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the room temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter. Beat on medium speed until smooth and thoroughly combined.
- Add Flavorings: Add the vanilla bean paste and cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture and mix until evenly incorporated.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar into the bowl while mixing on low speed. Continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the Bars: Once the bars are fully cooled, either spread or pipe the frosting evenly on top. Optionally, add sprinkles or desired toppings for extra decoration and flavor.
- Storage: Store the frosted bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to one week.
Notes
- Vanilla bean paste adds a rich vanilla flavor and speckled appearance, but you can substitute with vanilla extract if unavailable.
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to achieve a smooth frosting.
- Pressing the batter firmly with damp fingers helps create an even base and prevents cracks during baking.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent frosting from melting.
- Use an 8x8 inch pan for best thickness and baking time accuracy.
- You can add sprinkles or chopped nuts on top of the frosting for added texture and decoration.
