Ingredients
Bars
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which will help build the base texture of the bars.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar, combining thoroughly for a uniform batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing which can make the bars tough.
- Spread Batter: Pour and spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan to ensure even baking and consistent texture.
- Prepare and Sprinkle Topping: In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar for the topping then sprinkle it evenly over the batter to add a sweet and spicy crust.
- Bake: Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool Bars: Remove from oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan to set the structure and make them easier to frost.
- Make and Apply Frosting: Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth, then spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- For best results, make sure the butter is softened but not melted before creaming with the sugars.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to maintain a tender texture.
- Letting the bars cool completely before frosting prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American