Name: Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 cup brown sugar (lightly packed); 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon; 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 3 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup confectioners’ sugar; 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp vanilla extract; pinch of salt; 3-4 Tbsp heavy cream or milk

Jump to Recipe

If you grew up loving those classic toaster pastries, get ready for a dessert that takes nostalgia to spectacular new heights. Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars have all the buttery, cinnamon-sweet magic you crave, transformed into decadent, bakery-style dessert bars with a tender cookie base, gooey spiced filling, and a dreamy glaze draped on top. They’re shockingly easy to make from scratch, yet taste like you spent hours baking. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or savoring with an afternoon cup of coffee, these bars are the ultimate treat for anyone who adores the cozy flavors of brown sugar and cinnamon.

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars is wonderfully simple, but every component brings something special to the table—rich flavor, perfect crumb, and that nostalgic icing. Gather these pantry staples, and you’re halfway to dessert bliss!

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides the richness and melt-in-your-mouth texture for both the shortbread base and the cinnamon glaze.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup for dough, 1 cup for filling): Deepens the caramel-like sweetness and gives the filling its signature warm flavor.
Confectioners’ sugar (3/4 cup for dough, 1 cup for glaze): Lends structure to the dough and helps create a smooth, glossy glaze.
Pure vanilla extract (2 tsp for dough, 1/2 tsp for glaze): Adds a softly sweet, bakery-style aroma that ties everything together.
Pinch of salt (for dough and glaze): Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
Egg (1): Binds the dough for a tender, cohesive base and topping.
All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups for dough, 2 Tbsp for filling): Forms the structure of the bars and thickens the cinnamon filling.
Ground cinnamon (1 Tbsp for filling, 1 1/2 tsp for glaze): The undeniable star of the show, lending warmth and comforting spice.
Unsalted butter, melted (3 Tbsp, for filling): Helps the brown sugar and cinnamon transform into that classic Pop Tart filling.
Heavy cream or milk (3-4 Tbsp, for glaze): Brings the glaze to perfect drizzling consistency.

How to Make Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325℉. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, letting the excess hang over two sides so you can easily lift the bars out later. Give the pan a light mist with baking spray to ensure a flawless release.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until it’s pale and fluffy—about three minutes. Beat in the egg, followed by the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Once it’s mostly combined, gradually add in the flour just until the dough forms. Remember to scrape the bowl for even mixing!

Step 3: Layer the Dough

Divide your dough into two equal parts. Gently press one half into an even layer in your prepared pan for the base. Shape the remaining half into an 8×8-inch square on a separate piece of parchment paper—this will become your top crust! Set it aside for easy assembly.

Step 4: Make the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is evenly moistened. This creates the gooey, iconic filling that makes Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars absolutely irresistible.

Step 5: Assemble the Layers

Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the pressed dough in the pan. Carefully lay the reserved dough square over the filling, gently pressing it down so the bars bake up beautifully defined layers.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake the assembled bars in your preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the top is a gentle golden color and the dough feels set to the touch. Let them cool completely in the pan—this patience pays off when you slice perfect squares!

Step 7: Glaze and Finish

As the bars cool, prepare your glaze by whisking together confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and enough heavy cream or milk to reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Once the bars are completely cool, use the parchment to lift them out of the pan. Drizzle the glaze over the bars, using an offset spatula for that signature pop tart finish. Allow the glaze to firm up before cutting into squares and enjoying your homemade masterpiece.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars

Garnishes

While the glaze is a show-stopper on its own, a pinch of extra cinnamon or a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar adds elegant flair. For a playful touch, sprinkle a few toasted chopped pecans for crunch, or even top with festive sprinkles to make these bars party-ready.

Side Dishes

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars love the company of a steaming mug of coffee or a creamy glass of milk. For an elevated dessert plate, pair them with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream—the cool creaminess highlights the cinnamon’s warmth in every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn serving into an experience by cutting the bars into slender pop tart-style rectangles, wrapping them in wax paper, and tying with twine for a lunchbox surprise. Stack them high on a cake stand, or arrange on a platter with other retro sweets for a nostalgic dessert spread that’s sure to spark conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If your kitchen is especially warm, store them in the fridge to preserve the glaze and keep the texture just right.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully! Once cooled and glazed, layer them between sheets of parchment in an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving for a treat that tastes freshly baked.

Reheating

If you love your bars slightly warm, reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10 seconds. For a crispier edge, pop them into a 300℉ oven for a few minutes. The glaze will soften slightly, creating a gooey, just-baked effect you’ll adore.

FAQs

Can I make these Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars gluten free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder so the bars hold together beautifully.

What type of brown sugar works best?

Light brown sugar is ideal for this recipe—it provides the perfect amount of moisture and that gentle molasses flavor without being overpowering. If you only have dark brown sugar, the bars will turn out a bit richer, which some may love!

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can easily double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. The bars may need a few extra minutes to bake through; just keep an eye out for that golden top and set center.

Is it necessary to glaze the bars?

The glaze gives Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars their signature look and flavor. However, if you prefer a less sweet treat, you can skip it or simply dust the tops with extra cinnamon sugar before baking.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Of course! Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts mixed into the filling add lovely crunch and depth. You could also sprinkle in mini chocolate chips or even dried fruit for extra fun.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and delightfully nostalgic about Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars. They’re a joy to bake, even more fun to share, and always disappear faster than you’d expect. I hope you’ll give them a try—your inner child (and your current self!) will thank you.

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 21 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast treat. With layers of buttery dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and a creamy glaze, these bars are perfect for a cozy morning or a sweet snack.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325℉.
Prepare Baking Dish: Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, extending over two sides. Lightly spray with baking spray.
Make Dough: Cream butter and brown sugar. Add egg, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, salt, and flour. Mix until incorporated.
Layer Dough: Press half of the dough into the pan. Shape the remaining half into an 8×8 inch square.
Prepare Filling: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and melted butter. Spread over the dough in the pan.
Assemble Bars: Place the reserved dough square over the filling. Press gently to secure.
Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely.
Make Glaze: Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, and heavy cream until smooth.
Glaze Bars: Drizzle glaze over cooled bars and spread evenly.
Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy!

Notes

You can customize the filling with your favorite jam or preserves for a different flavor twist.
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American