If there’s a bake that never fails to light up a room with cozy aromas and smiles, it’s these Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares. Imagine the perfect marriage of a snickerdoodle and a blondie—all buttery richness, swirls of cinnamon, and a delicate sugar crunch on top. Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch, a neighborhood potluck, or simply to sweeten a quiet afternoon, this crowd-pleasing treat brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Simple ingredients work their magic here, and this recipe is a testament to how homey baking can make everyone feel special.

Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares is how they rely on humble pantry staples, but each one brings something vital to the final result—from softness and lift to deep caramel notes and that unmistakable nostalgic flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:

Flour: Provides structure and softness—make sure to spoon and level for the perfect texture.
Ground Cinnamon: The star of the show! Warm, fragrant, and essential for that signature swirl of spice.
Baking Powder: Gives your cinnamon squares their gentle rise and fluffiness.
Baking Soda: Works with the baking powder to create a perfectly tender crumb.
Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and keeps the squares incredibly moist.
Butter: Brings richness and ensures every bite is deliciously buttery—remember to use it in both the batter and topping!
Eggs: Bind everything together and help give structure and a subtle chew.
Vanilla: Enhances the cinnamon and brown sugar with an extra layer of warmth.
Sugar: Used for a sparkling, crunchy topping after baking.
Melted Butter (for topping): Helps the cinnamon-sugar sprinkle stick and creates an inviting finish.

How to Make Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 175ºC (350ºF). Line a 23×23 cm (9×9-inch) pan with aluminum foil, making sure to leave enough overhang on all sides—this trick makes lifting your bars out a breeze later. Give the foil a quick spray or greasing so nothing sticks.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, baking powder, and baking soda. This blend will infuse every bite with just the right amount of spice and structure.

Step 3: Melt Butter and Brown Sugar

Grab a large saucepan and melt the 2/3 cup butter with your packed brown sugar over medium heat. Stir gently until the mixture is silky smooth and caramel-like. Then, set it aside for a few minutes—a slightly cooled mix is best for the next step.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

To the warm (but not hot) butter-sugar mixture, whisk in your eggs and vanilla extract. This makes for a luscious, glossy base and ensures everything binds together just right for Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour in your dry ingredients gradually, whisking as you go. Stir just until you have a smooth, thick batter—overmixing can make your squares dense rather than tender, so aim for just combined.

Step 6: Bake the Batter

Scrape that dreamy batter into your prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Slide it into the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top and a toothpick that comes out clean from the center—keep an eye out around the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Make and Sprinkle the Topping

While your bars cool slightly, stir together the remaining teaspoon of cinnamon, sugar, and a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar magic all over the warm squares for a classic, crinkly top with the perfect hint of spice.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Let the pan cool until you can comfortably handle it. Use your foil handles to lift the slab onto a wire rack, then let it cool completely. Once cool, slice into neat squares and get ready for the compliments to roll in!

How to Serve Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares

Garnishes

For a simple, beautiful touch, dust your Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares with a bit of extra powdered sugar or a few curls of chocolate. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of cream cheese glaze makes them downright irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair these cinnamon squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for dessert. If you’re serving them for breakfast or brunch, fresh berries and a mug of strong coffee truly make them sing.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the squares on a rustic cutting board for a cozy, family-style feel, or arrange them in cute treat bags as edible gifts. You could even cut them into triangles or bars for a playful spin—either way, these Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares always steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cinnamon squares fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature—they’ll stay moist and flavorful for about 3 days. A sheet of parchment between layers prevents sticking and preserves their pretty sugar topping.

Freezing

Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares are freezer-friendly! Wrap individual squares tightly in cling film or foil, then tuck them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months, ready for those moments when you crave homemade comfort.

Reheating

Want that fresh-baked feel again? Warm the squares gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a low oven until just heated through. This brings back their just-out-of-the-oven softness and intensifies those dreamy cinnamon aromas.

FAQs

Can I make Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend; just make sure it’s a cup-for-cup substitute. The squares may be slightly more delicate, but still incredibly delicious.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely—just bake it in a 9×13-inch pan and watch the time, as it may take an extra 5 to 10 minutes in the oven. Otherwise, the process is the same and everyone will thank you for the extra batch.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the mix?

Of course! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a handful of raisins add delicious texture. Fold in about 1/2 cup of your favorite, right after combining wet and dry ingredients.

Will these work with margarine or plant-based butter?

Yes, you can use a plant-based alternative for fully dairy-free Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares. Just be sure to choose a stick-style version rather than a spread, to keep the texture rich and tender.

How do I avoid dry or overbaked squares?

Check a few minutes before the suggested bake time with a toothpick—pull them out as soon as it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking is the enemy of those gooey, irresistible centers!

Final Thoughts

Few baked treats deliver such simple comfort and universal appeal as Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares. They’re easy enough for a weekday snack, yet special enough to headline a celebration. Give them a try—you’ll see how quickly they become your go-to cinnamon fix and the piece everyone asks for seconds of!