Viral Cinnamon Roll Shortbread Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Viral Cinnamon Roll Shortbread Bars combine the tender crumb of shortbread with the sweet, spicy flavors of a cinnamon roll. Layered with a creamy frosting, they’re an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of coffee.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (packed lightly)
• 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
• 2 cups Powdered Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
• 2 tablespoons Turbinado Sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, then add the vanilla extract.
2. Step 2: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined to form a tender dough for the crust.
3. Step 3: Press about two-thirds of the dough into a prepared pan and chill for 15-30 minutes to let it set firmly.
4. Step 4: Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes until the crust is very lightly golden. This helps prevent a soggy bottom.
5. Step 5: In a bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable for the filling.
6. Step 6: Dollop the cinnamon mixture over the par-baked crust and gently spread it into an even layer.
7. Step 7: Roll or press the remaining dough thinly and place it loosely over the cinnamon filling. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar for a sweet crunch.
8. Step 8: Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly and aromatic.
9. Step 9: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for a bit to set up before adding the frosting.
10. Step 10: Beat softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy for the frosting.
11. Step 11: Spread the luscious frosting evenly over the slightly cooled bars for a classic finish.
12. Step 12: Cut into desired squares and enjoy these irresistible Cinnamon Roll Shortbread Bars!

Tips & Variations

• For extra gooey bars, add a tablespoon of heavy cream to the frosting for a richer texture.
• Swap turbinado sugar for coarse sanding sugar if you prefer a finer crunch on top.
• Use melted butter instead of softened butter in the crust for a firmer texture.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for added crunch.

Storage

Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bars up to the point of frosting, then refrigerate overnight. Add the frosting just before serving to keep it fresh.

Can I use regular sugar instead of turbinado sugar?

Yes, but turbinado sugar adds a nice crunchy texture and subtle molasses flavor. If using regular sugar, consider sprinkling coarse sanding sugar for better crunch.

Viral Cinnamon Roll Shortbread Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 89 reviews

• Author: Rafael
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x

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Description

These Viral Cinnamon Roll Shortbread Bars combine the buttery, tender texture of shortbread with a sweet and gooey cinnamon filling, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of crunchy turbinado sugar. Perfect for satisfying your cinnamon roll cravings in bar form, they offer an irresistible blend of rich flavors and delightful textures, ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat.

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Ingredients

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Crust

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt

Cinnamon Filling

• 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (packed lightly)
• 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Frosting

• 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
• 2 cups Powdered Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract

Topping

• 2 tablespoons Turbinado Sugar

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing only until just combined, to create a tender dough base.
2. Form and Chill the Base Layer: Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of a prepared baking pan. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for 15 to 30 minutes, allowing the dough to firm up for optimal texture during baking.
3. Par-Bake the Crust: Bake the chilled crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 15 minutes, or until it turns very lightly golden. This step helps prevent a soggy bottom after adding the filling.
4. Make the Cinnamon Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and spreadable.
5. Spread the Filling: Dollop the cinnamon mixture over the warm, par-baked crust. Gently spread it out into an even layer, ensuring full coverage of the crust.
6. Add the Top Crust Layer: Roll or press the remaining one-third of the dough thinly and carefully place it over the cinnamon filling. Sprinkle the top layer with turbinado sugar to add a sweet, crunchy texture upon baking.
7. Bake Completely: Return the assembled bars to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until the top crust is a golden brown color and the filling is bubbly and delicious.
8. Cool Before Frosting: Allow the bars to cool in the baking pan for a while so they can set firmly, which makes frosting application easier and prevents the frosting from melting.
9. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
10. Frost the Bars: Evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the slightly cooled bars for a classic, rich finish that complements the cinnamon filling perfectly.
11. Serve: Cut the bars into desired square portions. Enjoy these luscious Cinnamon Roll Shortbread Bars as a delicious dessert or treat.

Notes

• For best results, soften all dairy ingredients to room temperature before mixing for easier blending.
• Chilling the crust helps ensure a firm base and prevents sogginess after baking with the filling.
• Use turbinado sugar for a crunchy texture and a subtle molasses flavor that pairs well with cinnamon.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
• Allow bars to cool fully before slicing to avoid crumbling.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cinnamon Roll Bars, Shortbread Bars, Cinnamon Dessert Bars, Cream Cheese Frosting Bars, Easy Dessert Recipe