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Cinnamon Squares Recipe

Cinnamon Squares Recipe

Soft, buttery cinnamon-swirled squares with a delicate vanilla glaze. Perfect for coffee breaks, bake sales, or cozy brunch.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 16

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled for batter
  • 0.75 cup granulated sugar for batter
  • 0.25 cup light brown sugar, packed for batter
  • 4 oz eggs, lightly beaten about 2 large
  • 1.5 tsp vanilla extract for batter
  • 1.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1.25 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp fine salt
  • 0.5 cup whole milk room temperature
  • 0.33 cup granulated sugar for cinnamon swirl
  • 1.5 tbsp ground cinnamon for cinnamon swirl
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted for cinnamon swirl
  • 0.5 cup powdered sugar for glaze
  • 1 tbsp milk for glaze; add more to thin
  • 0.25 tsp vanilla extract for glaze

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment, leaving overhang.
  • Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.
  • Stir melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until glossy.
  • Beat in the eggs and vanilla until smooth and slightly thickened.
  • Add dry ingredients in two additions, alternating with the milk. Mix just until combined.
  • Combine cinnamon and the 1/3 cup sugar in a small bowl. Stir in the 1 tbsp melted butter until sandy.
  • Spread half the batter in the pan. Sprinkle half the cinnamon mixture over it.
  • Dollop remaining batter on top and gently spread. Scatter the rest of the cinnamon mixture evenly.
  • Bake 23–26 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  • Cool in the pan 20 minutes. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla; drizzle over warm bars.
  • Let set, then lift out by parchment and cut into 16 squares.

Notes

Try stirring 1/3 cup chopped toasted pecans into the batter, or swap 1/4 tsp cardamom into the cinnamon layer for a warm twist. Store squares airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze up to 2 months.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Cinnamon Squares Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.