Joanna Gaines’ Cinnamon Squares Recipe: Gooey Layers of Spiced Sweetness

I still remember the first time I baked these cinnamon squares—the aroma filled my kitchen with warm, spiced sweetness that felt like a hug. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into layers of gooey, buttery perfection that disappear faster than I can make them.

The secret lies in the balance: a tender cake base, a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and a creamy glaze that ties it all together. I’ve tested this version with home cooks of all skill levels, and it never fails to deliver that comforting, bakery-style result.

What you’ll love most is how the edges turn slightly crisp while the center stays soft and gooey. It’s the kind of treat that turns a regular afternoon into something special.

Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack with coffee. Here’s how to make them.

Ingredients for Joanna Gaines Cinnamon Squares

A few pantry staples and fridge basics create these irresistible layered squares.

The cinnamon is key here—Penzeys has the best quality, but any grocery store brand works if it’s fresh (sniff it—should smell like Christmas). The butter matters too: Plugrá or Land O’Lakes for that rich, bakery-style taste. I always buy unsalted so I can control the salt content. For the flour, King Arthur is my go-to, but store brand all-purpose is fine in a pinch.

No brown sugar? White sugar plus molasses (1 tbsp per cup) gets you close. Out of powdered sugar? Blend granulated sugar at 1:1 ratio—just sift it first. The milk can be any kind you’ve got (even almond, though whole gives the best texture). Need to skip the glaze? A dusting of cinnamon sugar right after baking still tastes amazing.

These keep 3-4 days covered at room temp (if they last that long). Freeze for up to 3 months—slice before freezing for easy grab-and-go treats. The glaze softens as it sits, so add it right before serving if you want that perfect drizzle.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cinnamon Squares

Here’s the method. Straightforward, tested, works every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 cups All-Purpose Flour, 2 tsp Baking Powder, and 0.5 tsp Salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents for a consistent rise.

In a separate bowl, cream together 1 cup Unsalted Butter and the 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar until light and fluffy. Add the 2 whole Large Eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the 1 tsp Vanilla Extract. The mixture should look pale and slightly increased in volume.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the 0.25 cup Milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined—overmixing will result in a dense cake base.

Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, combine the 0.5 cup Brown Sugar and 2 tbsp Ground Cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is uniformly blended and free of lumps. The brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel note that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.

Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the entire cinnamon-brown sugar mixture evenly over the batter, making sure to cover all the way to the edges. This layer will create those gooey, spiced pockets that define this dish.

Dollop the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer. Use a spatula to gently spread it out—it’s okay if some of the cinnamon filling peeks through. The contrast between the cake and filling is part of the charm.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Watch for the edges to pull slightly away from the pan and the center to look set. The cinnamon filling will be bubbly and fragrant when it’s done. Resist the urge to overbake—you want the cake portion to remain moist and tender.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Glaze

While the squares are baking, whisk together the 1 cup Powdered Sugar, and 2 tbsp Heavy Cream in a small bowl. Start with 1 tablespoon of the Milk and add more as needed until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.

The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still drizzle easily. If it’s too thick, add milk 1 teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar. This balance ensures it sets properly without being overly sweet.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve Warm

Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. While still warm, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. Use a spoon to gently spread it into an even layer if needed.

Let the squares cool for another 15-20 minutes before slicing into portions. This waiting period allows the glaze to set slightly and the flavors to meld. Serve warm for the best experience—the filling will be deliciously gooey and the cake tender.

Best Sauces and Condiments for This Recipe

Cream Cheese Glaze

For a tangy twist, beat 4 oz cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tbsp milk. This version adds richness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon. I tested this with Philadelphia cream cheese for the best texture. 💛

Vanilla Bean Drizzle

Split 1 vanilla bean, scrape seeds into 1 cup powdered sugar and 3 tbsp milk. The speckled glaze looks stunning and adds a gourmet touch. Use Madagascar bourbon vanilla beans if you can find them.

Spiced Caramel Sauce

Melt ½ cup brown sugar with ¼ cup butter and 2 tbsp heavy cream. Add ½ tsp cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Drizzle warm for a decadent finish. I like to make this in a small saucepan.

Brown Butter Icing

Brown ¼ cup butter in a light-colored pan, then whisk into 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tbsp milk. The nutty aroma takes these squares to the next level. Watch carefully—it burns quickly!

Coffee Glaze

Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tbsp strong coffee and 1 tbsp milk. The coffee enhances the cinnamon flavor without tasting like coffee. Use your favorite morning brew for this. ☕

Citrus Zest Glaze

Add 1 tsp orange or lemon zest to the standard glaze recipe. The citrus brightens the sweetness and adds a fresh note. I prefer orange zest with cinnamon—it feels like a bakery creation.

Frequently Asked Questions