Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars
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Craving that classic brown sugar and cinnamon combo? These Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars just may be the answer! Classic flavors, simple steps, and a touch of nostalgia make these dessert bars a winning combination.
There’s a certain kind of magic in the air when we talk about the classic flavors from our childhood, isn’t there? The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon has always had a special place in many of our hearts. It’s a flavor that transports us back to simpler times.
Today I thought we could recreate that magic with these Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars. These might be some of the best dessert bars I’ve made in a while. I could NOT stop eating them. The flavor combination is just so quintessentially good. I’m already thinking about when I can make them again. Ha! These may even rival my cinnamon bars recipe. (Which is another good one!)
The following recipe is straightforward and fun; it will bring a little slice of childhood right into your kitchen. Whether you’ve always been a fan of the classic Pop-Tarts or you’re simply looking for a cinnamony delightful treat, you’re definitely in for a treat (literally)!
While these bars are perfect for fall, they can easily be enjoyed any time of the year. So, no matter when you’re reading this recipe, I know you’re going to love and hang onto it for years to come.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- There’s something undeniably nostalgic about that brown sugar and cinnamon combination, right? It’s like a warm memory from childhood wrapped up in every bite. And the best part… These bars capture that essence PERFECTLY.
- Whether you’re hosting a get-together, need a quick dessert for a potluck, or just want to treat yourself after a long day, these bars are your go-to. Cut them up into bite-sized pieces or devour a larger slice; there’s no judgment here!
- If you’ve ever felt the pang of baking intimidation, I’m here to assure you that these bars are as straightforward as it gets. There are no fancy techniques or elusive ingredients, just pure baking joy!
Looking for more delicious dessert bars? You’ll love these Cranberry Pumpkin Bars, Salted Peanut Bars, and Rich Maple Butter Bars.
Ingredients
There are many things I love about these Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars. One of them is that you’ll likely have most, if not all, of the necessary ingredients in your pantry and refrigerator. Here’s what you’ll need:
- unsalted butter
- brown sugar
- confectioners’ sugar
- vanilla extract
- salt
- egg
- all-purpose flour
- heavy cream (or milk)
Yep! That’s it. Simple and cost-effective. Love that!
How To Make
Once you’ve gathered all of your ingredients, you’re ready to make and bake these Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars. I’ll walk you through the easy steps below. I’ve also provided a full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card below.
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325℉.
- Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over two sides for easy lifting later. Lightly spray with baking spray.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy: about three minutes. Add the egg and mix to combine. Add confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until just combined: roughly one minute. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until just incorporated.
- Divide the dough in half. Firmly press one of the halves into the base of your prepared pan, ensuring an even layer. Shape the remaining dough into an 8×8 inch square on a separate piece of parchment paper and set aside.
- For the filling, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour in a small bowl. Incorporate the melted butter, blending well.
- Evenly spread this filling mixture over the dough in the pan. Carefully place the reserved dough square over the filling, pressing down gently to secure.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the bars turn a light golden brown and the dough feels set to touch. Once done, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely.
- While the bars cool, prepare the glaze. Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and heavy cream until smooth. Once the bars are cooled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Drizzle the glaze over the bars and use an offset spatula to spread the glaze evenly.
- Allow the glaze to set, then cut the dessert into squares. Serve and enjoy!
It’s that simple my friend and the results are DELICIOUS!
Recipe Variations
This is one of those recipes that I feel is perfect as is. However, I know that many of you like to get creative in the kitchen and I encourage that too. If you want to try some variations of these bars, here are a few ideas to get you started.
- Nutty Addition: Introduce a crunchy twist by adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the brown sugar filling. This will give the bars an added layer of texture and a nutty flavor.
- Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of fall flavors, incorporate a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, or even pumpkin pie spice into the filling for added warmth and complexity.
- Fruity Twist: Add a layer of apple or pear slices between the dough and brown sugar filling. This will make the bars moist and introduce a natural sweetness and tartness that complements the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Chocolate Lovers: Who can resist chocolate? Drizzle melted chocolate over the glazed bars or incorporate chocolate chips into the dough for that added choco kick. I think white chocolate would be delicious here too!
- Coffee Infusion: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the glaze. It’ll give a subtle coffee flavor that complements the cinnamon and brown sugar beautifully, making it perfect for a morning treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
I tried to anticipate some of the questions you may have before or while baking these tasty dessert bars. If you have additional questions, please leave them in the comment section below.
Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
Yes, you can use a hand mixer. The process might take a tad longer, but it will work just fine!
How do I store the leftover bars?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three to four days. If you prefer the bars chilled, they can be kept in the refrigerator for a few extra days.
Can these bars be frozen for later?
You betcha! Once the bars are completely cooled and the glaze has set, cut them into squares, and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or a freeze-friendly storage container and store them for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
My glaze is too thick/thin. How can I adjust it?
If the glaze is too thick, add a touch more heavy cream or milk, a teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. If it’s too thin, mix in more confectioners’ sugar.
Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering?
Absolutely. If you’re serving a crowd, you can easily double the ingredients. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish (like a 9×13-inch pan) and adjust the baking time as needed.
More Cinnamon Recipes You May Enjoy
- Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
- Cinnamon Bites
- The BEST Cinnamon Bars
- Cinnamon and Sugar Cake
- Cinnamon Nut Quick Bread
- Maple Glazed Cinnamon Chip Bars
And there you have it: a delicious, nostalgic, and easy-to-make treat. I think you’re going to love these Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars. If you do, please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.
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Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars
Ingredients
Bars:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- 1 egg
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Brown Sugar Filling:
- 1 cup brown sugar lightly packed
- 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter melted
Cinnamon Glaze:
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- 3-4 Tbsp heavy cream or milk
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325℉.
- Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over two sides for easy lifting later. Lightly spray with baking spray.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy: about three minutes. Add the egg and mix to combine. Add confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until just combined: roughly one minute. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until just incorporated.
- Divide the dough in half. Firmly press one or the halves into the base of your prepared pan, ensuring an even layer. Shape the remaining dough into an 8×8 inch square on a separate piece of parchment paper and set aside.
- For the filling, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour in a small bowl. Incorporate the melted butter, blending well.
- Evenly spread this filling mixture over the dough in the pan. Carefully place the reserved dough square over the filling, pressing down gently to secure.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bars turn a light golden brown and the dough feels set to touch. Once done, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely.
- While the bars cool, prepare the glaze. Whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and heavy cream until smooth. Once the bars are cooled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Drizzle the glaze over the bars and use an offset spatula to spread the glaze evenly.
- Allow the glaze to set, then cut the dessert into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Made this for work doubled the recipe since there are more of us. Didn’t even make it the whole day everyone loved it! Thank you!
Aren’t they great!? So glad you enjoyed them!
xo Michael
Best thing out of my kitchen this year. Thanks for sharing this. Made it in a springform pan.
Yay! So glad to hear them. I love them too!
xo Michael
Thank you so much for this recipe! My husband was recently diagnosed with celiac disease and has been mourning the loss of many of his favorite foods including cinnamon brown sugar Pop Tarts. I was able to easily modify your recipe to be gluten free by using a 1:1 gf flour. He was absolutely thrilled to have one of his favorite treats again in a way that is safe for him!
Teacher Appreciation Day coming up and I will be bringing these to spoil the teachers! Good to know I can double the recipe easily. Thank you Michael!!