Cinnamon Cookie Bars Recipe

If you love cinnamon buns and cookies, then this recipe is for you! These Cinnamon Cookie Bars bring all the comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll into an easy, one-pan dessert. With a soft, buttery texture and a sweet cinnamon swirl, these bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. Plus, they’re super simple to make no rolling or kneading dough required!

Method

Prepare the Dough

To start, take a large mixing bowl and combine the melted butter with both the brown sugar and white sugar. Use a whisk to mix them together until the sugars are fully dissolved into the butter and the mixture appears smooth. The butter should be warm but not too hot to prevent the sugar from crystallizing. Once the mixture is well combined, crack in the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until they are completely incorporated. Finally, add the vanilla extract and mix it in evenly, ensuring a rich and aromatic flavor in the dough.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This step is essential to ensure that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps maintain a balanced taste in the cookie bars. Slowly, begin incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. It’s best to add the flour in small increments while mixing continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until you achieve a thick and smooth cookie dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tougher texture in the final product.

Make the Cinnamon Swirl

To prepare the cinnamon swirl, take another small bowl and mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir the ingredients well until they form a thick and smooth paste. This cinnamon swirl will add a sweet, spiced layer inside the cookie bars, mimicking the classic flavors of a cinnamon roll.

Layer the Dough

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent the bars from sticking and to make removal easier once baked. Pour half of the prepared cookie dough into the lined baking dish and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom. The dough should reach all corners of the pan to ensure an even bake.

Swirl It Up

Once the first layer of dough is spread out, drizzle a portion of the cinnamon swirl mixture over it. Using a knife or a toothpick, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the dough, creating a marbled effect. Be sure not to overmix, as you want distinct streaks of cinnamon throughout the bars.

Repeat the Process

Now, spread the remaining cookie dough evenly over the first layer and gently smooth it out with a spatula. Once again, drizzle the remaining cinnamon swirl mixture on top and repeat the swirling process to create another marbled effect. This layering technique ensures that every bite has a perfect balance of cookie dough and cinnamon goodness.

Add the Topping

Before baking, sprinkle chopped white chocolate evenly over the top of the dough. The white chocolate will slightly melt during baking, adding a creamy sweetness that complements the warm cinnamon flavors.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the baking dish on the middle rack. Bake the cookie bars for 20-22 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center appears set. Avoid overbaking, as the bars will continue to firm up while cooling.

Cool and Serve

Once the bars are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up and makes slicing easier. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and place them on a cutting board. Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Necessary Tools

• 8×8-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee or Tea: These bars pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
• A La Mode: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Drizzled with Icing: Add a simple icing glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra cinnamon roll feel.
• Warm or Chilled: Enjoy them fresh from the oven or let them cool for a firmer texture.

Fun Fact

Did you know that cinnamon has been used for over 4,000 years? Ancient Egyptians even used it in their embalming process! Thankfully, we just use it for delicious treats like these cookie bars!

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of chewy cookie and cinnamon roll goodness. They’re easy to make, packed with warm cinnamon flavor, and topped with creamy white chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or with your morning coffee, they’re sure to be a hit! Try them out and let me know what you think!