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Viral Cinnamon Roll Shortbread Bars Recipe

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4.9 from 78 reviews

These Viral Cinnamon Roll Shortbread Bars combine the buttery, tender texture of shortbread with the sweet, spicy flavor of cinnamon roll filling and a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfectly baked with a crunchy turbinado sugar topping, these dessert bars offer a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-cut bar format.

Ingredients

Scale

Shortbread 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

Cream Cheese 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

Instructions

  1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for flavor.
  2. Make the Shortbread Dough: Gradually mix in 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt until just combined to form a tender shortbread dough. Avoid overmixing to keep it delicate.
  3. Press and Chill the Dough: Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of a prepared baking pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to firm up the crust and ensure better texture after baking.
  4. Par-Bake the Crust: Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until it is very lightly golden. This step helps prevent a soggy bottom once the filling is added.
  5. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup lightly packed brown sugar, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and spreadable.
  6. Spread the Cinnamon Layer: Dollop the cinnamon mixture evenly over the par-baked crust, then gently spread it out into an even layer.
  7. Add the Top Layer: Roll or press the remaining one-third of dough thinly and place it loosely over the cinnamon filling. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar on top for a crunchy sweet finish.
  8. Bake the Bars: Return the assembled bars to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly and delicious.
  9. Cool the Bars: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for a short while so they can set up and be easier to frost and cut.
  10. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat together 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract until smooth, creamy, and well combined.
  11. Frost the Bars: Evenly spread the luscious cream cheese frosting over the slightly cooled bars for the classic cinnamon roll finish.
  12. Serve: Cut into squares of desired size and enjoy these delectable Cinnamon Roll Shortbread Bars.

Notes

  • For best texture, make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened before mixing.
  • Chilling the dough before baking helps achieve a tender, flaky crust.
  • Use turbinado sugar for a crunchy, caramelized topping that also adds visual appeal.
  • Store leftover bars in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 4 days.
  • You can warm individual bars slightly before serving for a fresh-baked feel.

Keywords: Cinnamon Roll Bars, Shortbread Bars, Cream Cheese Frosting, Cinnamon Dessert, Sweet Bars

Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/viral-cinnamon-roll-shortbread-bars-recipe/