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Brown Sugar Cinnamon Bars

Decadent Brown Sugar Cinnamon Bars for Cozy Gatherings

Delight in these Brown Sugar Cinnamon Bars, a comforting dessert perfect for gatherings, with a buttery base and rich cinnamon filling.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Chill Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 cup softened unsalted butter can substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option
  • 1/2 cup superfine white sugar granulated sugar can be used if superfine is unavailable
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract imitation vanilla can be substituted in a pinch
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt sea salt or table salt works as alternatives
For the Filling
  • 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter use coconut oil for a dairy-free option
  • 1 cup brown sugar light brown sugar or coconut sugar can be used for a healthier option
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon nutmeg can be used for a different twist
For the Icing
  • 1 cup powdered sugar regular sugar can be blended into powder for a homemade version
  • 2 tablespoons water milk can be used instead for a creamier icing

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch baking pan
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and superfine sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter and sugar blend, stirring until just combined.
  4. Press half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Wrap the remaining dough in plastic wrap and chill for 15 minutes.
  5. Bake the shortbread base for about 10 minutes until slightly underbaked and edges turn a light golden color.
  6. While the crust is baking, mix melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a bowl until well combined.
  7. Once the crust is par-baked, pour the filling mixture over it. Roll out the reserved dough or form small discs to place on top.
  8. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
  9. Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and enough water to reach desired icing consistency.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 30mgSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

These bars are best cooled before cutting and can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.

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