Soft Cinnamon Roll Bars with Vanilla

Soft Cinnamon Roll Bars with Vanilla

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Introduction

If you adore the comforting, warm flavor of classic cinnamon rolls but dread the hours spent waiting for yeast to rise, these Soft Cinnamon Roll Bars are your perfect solution. Combining the irresistible gooey center and fragrant spiced filling of a traditional roll into an easy-to-manage 9×13 pan, this recipe is designed for speed and simplicity. Topped with a silky vanilla glaze, these bars are moist, tender, and ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a crowd-pleasing potluck treat.

Ingredients

  • For the Dough

  • 3 cups (360g) All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/4 cup (50g) Granulated Sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g) Cold Unsalted Butter, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup (240ml) Milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

  • For the Filling

  • 1 cup (200g) Light Brown Sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (60g) Unsalted Butter, melted

  • For the Vanilla Glaze

  • 2 cups (240g) Powdered Sugar (Icing Sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 3–4 tablespoons Milk or Heavy Cream

Step-by-step Preparation

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add the milk and vanilla extract. Stir just until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Do not overmix. Press the dough evenly into the prepared 9×13 pan.

    Tip: If the dough is too sticky to handle, lightly flour your hands or use the bottom of a glass to press it flat.

  4. Create the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together until fully combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the entire surface of the dough base.
  5. Drizzle the 1/4 cup of melted butter evenly over the brown sugar filling. This helps the filling caramelize and ensures the bars stay moist.
  6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
  7. Prepare the Glaze: While the bars are cooling slightly (about 10 minutes), whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons of milk/cream until smooth. Add the remaining tablespoon of liquid if the glaze is too thick.
  8. Drizzle the vanilla glaze generously over the warm bars. Allow the glaze to set for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information

As an indulgent dessert, these Cinnamon Roll Bars are high in carbohydrates and sugar. Per serving (assuming 12 servings), they contain approximately 350–400 calories. While they are a delicious treat, they are best enjoyed in moderation. They provide a small amount of calcium and are a fantastic source of comfort and warmth!

Storage

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds until soft and gooey again. Freezing is not recommended once the glaze is applied, as it can become watery upon thawing.

Conclusion

These cinnamon roll bars are best served slightly warm alongside a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. For a decadent variation, substitute the simple vanilla glaze with a rich cream cheese frosting (made from cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla). Whether you’re short on time or simply craving that classic cinnamon flavor without the fuss, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite.

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