(Makes 12-16 bars)
For the Dough:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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Instructions (Construction)
Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Make the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar together until creamy.
Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Gradually mix in dry ingredients until fully combined.
Assemble & Add Topping
Spread dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
In a small bowl, mix cinnamon and sugar for the topping.
Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough.
Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
Let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing into bars.
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Variations
Extra Soft & Gooey: Reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes.
Cinnamon Swirl: Swirl extra cinnamon-sugar mixture into the dough before baking.
Brown Sugar Twist: Swap ¼ cup granulated sugar for brown sugar for a richer taste.
Frosted Version: Drizzle with a vanilla glaze or spread a cream cheese frosting on top.
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Tips
Don’t overbake! The bars continue to firm up as they cool.
For even texture, press the dough evenly into the pan before baking.
Want thicker bars? Use a 9×5-inch loaf pan instead of an 8×8.
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Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
(Based on 16 bars)
Calories: ~120 kcal
Protein: ~1.5g
Carbohydrates: ~18g
Fat: ~5g
Sugar: ~10g
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Serving Suggestions
Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for later!
This keeps it simple, chewy, and full of cinnamon-sugar goodness! Let me know if you’d like any tweaks.