I’ve always been a fan of Joanna Gaines’ comforting desserts, and her cinnamon squares recipe is a game-changer. 🔥 Soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced, these cinnamon squares are sure to become a family favorite. The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and butter creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
The best part about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a batch of these sweet treats ready in no time. The dough comes together quickly, and the baking process is a breeze.
As the cinnamon squares bake, your kitchen will fill with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon and sugar. The result is a perfectly golden-brown treat that’s both soft and slightly crumbly. Serve warm, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy!
Ingredients for joanna gaines cinnamon squares
Here’s everything you need to create Joanna Gaines’ delicious cinnamon squares recipe at home easily.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour 🌾 | 2 cups | Sifted for better texture |
| Granulated Sugar 🍮 | 1 cup | White granulated sugar |
| Brown Sugar 🍮 | ½ cup | Packed light brown sugar |
| Unsalted Butter 🧈 | 1 cup | Melted, cooled slightly |
| Large Eggs 🥚 | 2 whole | Room temperature eggs |
| Ground Cinnamon 🌿 | 2 tsp | High-quality ground cinnamon |
| Baking Powder ⚗️ | 1 tsp | Fresh, not expired |
| Salt 🧂 | ¼ tsp | Kosher or sea salt |
| Vanilla Extract 🌸 | 1 tsp | Pure vanilla extract |
| Powdered Sugar 🍰 | 1 cup | For dusting, optional |
[recipe_ingredient_scaler]
You can find these ingredients at most grocery stores. For the best results, use high-quality cinnamon from Penzeys or a trusted spice merchant. Choose unsalted butter for better flavor control, and use room temperature eggs for smoother batter. Look for pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
If you don't have light brown sugar, you can make it by mixing white sugar with a bit of molasses. For a different spice flavor, try adding nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon. If you're out of vanilla extract, omit it or substitute with almond extract at half the amount. Use high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor.
Store leftover cinnamon squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can freeze the baked squares for up to 2 months – simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for the best presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares
Let me guide you through making these irresistible cinnamon squares that are soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced.
👨🍳 Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. I like to use a whisk to ensure these dry ingredients are well combined and there are no lumps.
In a separate large bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, room temperature eggs, and pure vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. The eggs should be at room temperature to help create a tender crumb. Now, add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cinnamon squares.
🥘 Step 2: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Pour the prepared batter into the lined baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. I find that using a silicone spatula helps to get into the corners and ensures an even layer. Make sure the batter is evenly distributed in the pan to ensure uniform baking. The batter should be thick but still pourable; if it’s too thick, you can gently fold in a tablespoon or two of milk to achieve the right consistency.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. The edges should be lightly golden brown, and the center should be set. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as oven temperatures can vary. When done, remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
⏰ Step 3: Cool and Cut
Once the cinnamon squares have cooled completely, use the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Transfer to a cutting board and cut into 16 equal squares using a sharp knife. I like to dust the tops with powdered sugar just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness. If you’re not serving immediately, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
These cinnamon squares are perfect for a cozy breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the soft, sweet, and spiced goodness. The cinnamon flavor will be more pronounced if you’ve used high-quality ground cinnamon, so don’t skimp on this ingredient!
👨🍳 Step 4: Optional Glaze
If you want to take your cinnamon squares to the next level, you can prepare a simple glaze by whisking together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cinnamon squares for an extra sweet touch. This step is optional but adds a nice finishing touch to your baked goods.
Joanna Gaines’ Cinnamon Squares recipe is a game-changer for anyone with a sweet tooth 🍰. These soft, sweet, and spiced treats are perfect for a cozy afternoon with a cup of coffee or tea. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! The recipe involves a simple mixture of flour, sugar, and spices, topped with a crumbly cinnamon sugar mixture that adds a delightful textural element.
Key Ingredients 🔑
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup cinnamon sugar mixture (a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are likely already stocked in your pantry, making it a great last-minute dessert option. The cinnamon sugar mixture adds a lovely sweetness and spice that complements the soft, fluffy squares perfectly.
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Squares 💡
- Use high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor
- Don’t overmix the batter, as it can result in dense squares
- Let the squares cool completely before cutting into them
With Joanna Gaines’ Cinnamon Squares recipe, you’ll be enjoying soft, sweet, and spiced treats in no time. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to become a family favorite! 😋
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares
These tried-and-tested tips will help you achieve soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced cinnamon squares every time.
Ingredient Quality Matters: Use high-quality ground cinnamon for the best flavor. I also recommend using room temperature eggs to help create a tender crumb. The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the final result. 💡
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients in Step 1, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cinnamon squares, so stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are incorporated.
Baking Time is Crucial: In Step 2, bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as oven temperatures can vary.
Storage Tips: Store cooled cinnamon squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature when needed.
Nutrition Facts
380kcal
[recipe_ingredient_scaler]
Trained in classic French technique but raised on slow-cooked ribs and spicy rubs, she blends culinary skill with smoke and soul.
- Recipe for Boneless Pork Chops in Cast Iron Skillet: Sear and Baste to Juicy Perfection - October 3, 2026
- Recipe for Boneless Cross Rib Roast: Slow-Roasted Beef with Herb Crust - October 3, 2026
- Hamburgers in Sauce Recipe Crock Pot: Slow-Cooked Savory Delight - October 3, 2026