(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the bars:
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Ground cinnamon
For the cinnamon filling:
Butter
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
For the glaze:
Powdered sugar
Milk
Vanilla extract
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined.
Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the filling.
Drizzle and spread the cinnamon filling over the dough layer.
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the filling and gently spread where possible.
Bake for 28–32 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and set.
Allow the bars to cool slightly.
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the glaze.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm bars before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 16 bars
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Mix cream cheese into the glaze for a tangy topping.
Add nutmeg or cardamom for extra spice flavor.
Use maple extract in the glaze for a warm maple twist.
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the filling layer.
Add raisins for a cinnamon raisin variation.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
To reheat, microwave individual bars for 10–15 seconds for a warm gooey texture.
These bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Are cinnamon roll bars the same as cinnamon rolls?
They have similar flavors, but cinnamon roll bars are much easier and quicker to prepare.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they store very well and can be made a day in advance.
Why are my bars dry?
Overbaking can make the bars dry. Remove them once the center is set but still soft.
Can I add cream cheese frosting instead of glaze?
Absolutely. Cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with cinnamon flavors.
Can I freeze cinnamon roll bars?
Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
What type of cinnamon works best?
Ground Ceylon or Saigon cinnamon both work beautifully in this recipe.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt slightly to balance the flavors.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The top should be lightly golden and the center should no longer look wet.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger sheet pan and adjust baking time slightly if needed.
Do these bars taste good cold?
Yes, but they are especially delicious slightly warmed before serving.
Conclusion
These chewy cinnamon roll bars bring all the warm, comforting flavors of homemade cinnamon rolls into a simple and delicious dessert bar. Soft, buttery, and filled with sweet cinnamon swirls, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends any time of year. Easy to make and impossible to resist, they’re sure to become a favorite treat in your kitchen.
These Chewy Cinnamon Roll Bars are soft, gooey, and packed with warm cinnamon sugar flavor in every bite. Featuring buttery layers, rich cinnamon swirls, and a sweet vanilla glaze, these easy dessert bars deliver all the comforting taste of classic cinnamon rolls without the extra work. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or holiday baking, these cinnamon bars are an irresistible treat everyone will love.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:16 bars
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Filling
¼ cup butter, melted
½ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until fully combined.
Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the filling.
Drizzle and spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough layer.
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the filling and gently spread where possible.
Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is set.
Allow the bars to cool slightly.
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm bars before slicing and serving.
Notes
Do not overbake to keep the bars soft and chewy.Warm bars slightly before serving for the best gooey texture.Add cream cheese frosting instead of glaze for a richer topping.Saigon cinnamon adds a bold and warm cinnamon flavor.These bars freeze well for easy make-ahead desserts.
