Brown Butter Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Bars are the kind of dessert that instantly fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort. From the nutty aroma of browned butter to the sweet sparkle of cinnamon sugar on top, every step of this recipe feels special. These chewy cookie bars come together in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights, holiday trays, or last minute gatherings. With simple pantry staples and easy to follow instructions, you can create soft, bakery style bars that taste rich, cozy, and completely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Brown Butter Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
There is something magical about the combination of brown butter and cinnamon sugar. Browning the butter transforms its flavor into something deeper and nuttier, adding a subtle caramel richness that makes these cookie bars stand out from classic sugar cookies.
You will love how easy this recipe is. Instead of scooping individual cookies, you simply press the dough into a baking dish and bake. This saves time and ensures thick, evenly baked bars every time.
The texture is another reason to adore this recipe. The centers are soft and chewy, while the edges develop a delicate golden finish. The cinnamon sugar topping adds a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender crumb.
These bars are also perfect for sharing. Whether you are baking for a family gathering, school event, or cozy night at home, this recipe makes 16 generous servings that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Here is everything you need to make these flavorful cookie bars:
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2 sticks unsalted butter
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1 cup light brown sugar, packed
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1 half cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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2 and one half cups all purpose flour
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1 half teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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1 cup cinnamon chips
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Equipment:
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Oven
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9 x 13 inch baking dish
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Parchment paper
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Mixing bowl
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Measuring cups
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Measuring spoons
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Mixing spoon
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Plastic knife
Step by Step: How to Make Brown Butter Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Bars
Step 1: Prepare your pan
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang to make lifting the bars easier later.
Step 2: Brown the butter
Place the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Watch carefully as it can brown quickly. Remove from heat and let it cool for about 20 minutes.
Step 3: Combine the sugars
Transfer the cooled brown butter to a large mixing bowl. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar, stirring until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla
Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and creamy.
Step 5: Mix in dry ingredients
Gradually stir in the flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Mix just until combined. Mixing the dough too much can result in dense bars rather than a soft and chewy texture. Gently fold in the cinnamon chips.
Step 6: Press and top
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it into an even layer. In a small bowl, combine the remaining granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Scatter the mixture evenly across the surface of the dough.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the center is fully set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Cool and slice
Let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares with a plastic knife for clean slices.
Helpful Tips
Keep a close eye on the butter while browning. Once it begins to change color, it can move from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly. Swirling the pan helps distribute heat evenly.
Allow the butter to cool before adding the eggs. If it is too hot, it may affect the texture of the dough.
For extra chewy bars, avoid overbaking. The center should look slightly soft when you remove the pan from the oven.
Use a plastic knife for slicing. This prevents sticking and gives you neat, professional looking squares.
Substitutions And Variations
If cinnamon chips are not available, white baking chips make a great substitute. They add sweetness and pair nicely with the cinnamon topping.
You can use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to enhance the spice profile.
For a festive touch, drizzle the cooled bars with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
If you prefer a thinner bar, bake the dough in two smaller pans and reduce the baking time slightly.
Storage Instructions
Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Keep them sealed tightly to maintain their soft texture.
If refrigerating, place them in a sealed container for up to one week. Let the bars sit at room temperature before serving to ensure the best flavor and consistency.
For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to three months. Individually wrap each square in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutritional Information
Per serving, based on 16 bars:
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Calories: 224 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 43 g
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Protein: 3 g
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Fat: 4 g
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Saturated Fat: 2 g
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Cholesterol: 23 mg
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Sodium: 237 mg
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Potassium: 79 mg
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Fiber: 1 g
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Sugar: 28 g
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Vitamin A: 33 IU
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Vitamin C: 1 mg
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Calcium: 41 mg
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Iron: 1 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookie bars slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
They also pair beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or chai tea. For gatherings, arrange them on a dessert platter with brownies and chocolate chip cookies for a delightful variety.
You can crumble a bar over yogurt or ice cream for an easy dessert topping. They are just as delicious enjoyed on their own with a cold glass of milk.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Butter Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Bars
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before pressing it into the pan.
How do I know when the bars are done?
The edges should be lightly golden and the center should look set but soft. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out with a few moist crumbs rather than wet batter.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply prepare two separate 9 x 13 inch pans for best results. Avoid overcrowding one pan, as thicker dough will require longer baking time and may bake unevenly.
What makes brown butter special
Brown butter is created by gently cooking butter until the milk solids toast. This process adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances baked goods and gives these cookie bars their signature depth.
Can I reduce the suga?r
You can slightly reduce the topping sugar if desired, but reducing too much may affect texture and flavor balance.
Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for baking along with me. These Brown Butter Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Bars are truly one of my favorite easy desserts because they deliver incredible flavor with simple ingredients and minimal effort. The nutty brown butter, warm cinnamon sugar, and perfectly chewy texture make every bite feel comforting and special. I hope this recipe brings warmth and sweetness to your kitchen and becomes a favorite in your home as well. Happy baking, and thank you for being part of this wonderful food loving community.
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Brown Butter Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Brown Butter Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Bars are soft, chewy dessert bars made with nutty brown butter and topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar layer. This easy recipe comes together quickly and delivers rich, bakery style flavor in every bite. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or an everyday sweet treat.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars
2 sticks unsalted butter
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 half cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 and one half cups all purpose flour
1 half teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup cinnamon chips
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your pan
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang to make lifting the bars easier later.
Step 2: Brown the butter
Place the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Watch carefully as it can brown quickly. Remove from heat and let it cool for about 20 minutes.
Step 3: Combine the sugars
Transfer the cooled brown butter to a large mixing bowl. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar, stirring until smooth and well blended.
Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla
Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and creamy.
Step 5: Mix in dry ingredients
Gradually stir in the flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Mix just until combined. Mixing the dough too much can result in dense bars rather than a soft and chewy texture. Gently fold in the cinnamon chips.
Step 6: Press and top
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it into an even layer. In a small bowl, combine the remaining granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Scatter the mixture evenly across the surface of the dough.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the center is fully set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Cool and slice
Let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares with a plastic knife for clean slices.
Notes
Watch the butter carefully while browning, as it can darken quickly.
Avoid overmixing the dough to keep the bars soft and chewy.
Use a plastic knife for clean slices without sticking.
White baking chips can be substituted if cinnamon chips are unavailable.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 224
- Sugar: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Protein: 3g