Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars

Introduction

Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, offering all the familiar flavors in a convenient bar form. These bars feature a soft, buttery center that melts in your mouth, topped with a crisp cinnamon-sugar layer that provides just the right amount of sweetness and crunch. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings, serving as a simple dessert after dinner, or enjoying with a warm beverage on a cozy afternoon.

What I love most about these cookie bars is their ease of preparation. Unlike rolling individual cookies, you simply spread the dough into a baking pan and sprinkle it with cinnamon sugar before baking. This makes them an excellent choice for when you’re short on time but still want a homemade treat that impresses. The result is a chewy, tender bar with the same beloved flavor profile as traditional snickerdoodles, complete with that signature cinnamon-sugar sparkle.

These Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars have quickly become a favorite in my household, especially during the cooler months when the warm spice of cinnamon feels particularly comforting. Whether you’re baking for a family get-together, a potluck, or just because, these bars are bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. Their classic taste, combined with the simplicity of a bar format, makes them an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why these Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars will become your new go-to dessert:

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for Sharing: The bars are ideal for parties, potlucks, or gifts.
• Chewy and Soft Texture: The inside remains soft and chewy, while the cinnamon-sugar topping adds a slight crunch.
• Cinnamon Flavor: A lovely balance of warm cinnamon and buttery goodness.
• Quick Baking: These bars take less time to make than rolling individual cookies.
• One-Bowl Recipe: Minimal cleanup with simple preparation.
• Customizable: Add white chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
• Kid-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike due to their classic snickerdoodle taste.
• Holiday Ready: Perfect for holiday dessert platters or cozy fall evenings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Stay fresh for days, making them great for planning ahead.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 16 bars
• Calories per bar: Approximately 180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fat: 8g, Carbohydrates: 24g, Protein: 2g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars:

For the Cookie Bars

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Ingredient Highlights

• Cream of Tartar: Essential for the signature tangy flavor and chewy texture.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall taste of the bars.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich, buttery flavor and ensures a soft texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors for a classic cookie taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars is simple and quick:

Prepare the Cookie Bar Dough

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Assemble and Bake

1. Spread the Dough: Evenly press the dough into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Add the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the dough.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool: Let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before cutting into squares.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Cut and Serve: Cut the bars into 16 squares and serve them warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Here are some ideas for serving Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars:

• With Milk: Pair with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
• With Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Holiday Dessert Table: Add to a holiday dessert spread for a cinnamon-sugar delight.
• As a Gift: Wrap in festive packaging and give as a homemade gift.
• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with your morning or afternoon beverage.
• Dipped in Chocolate: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the bars for a fancier presentation.
• Topped with Frosting: Add a thin layer of cream cheese frosting for a twist.
• Warm with Whipped Cream: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
• With a Sprinkle of Powdered Sugar: Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
• As a Brunch Treat: Serve as part of a brunch spread with other baked goods.

Additional Tips

Make your Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars even more delicious with these tips:

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bars while baking to avoid overbaking, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
• Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps the eggs mix more evenly into the batter.
• Add Toppings: White chocolate chips or nuts can be mixed into the dough for added texture.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool before cutting for cleaner slices.
• Use Dark Brown Sugar: For a deeper flavor, replace part of the granulated sugar with dark brown sugar.
• Try a Drizzle of Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Sift the Dry Ingredients: This ensures there are no lumps and helps achieve a smoother texture.
• Store Properly: Store bars in an airtight container to maintain their chewiness.
• Add a Pinch of Nutmeg: A small amount of nutmeg in the dough adds warmth.
• Double the Recipe: Use a larger pan or bake two batches for bigger gatherings.

Recipe Variations

Change up your Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars with these variations:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Add white or dark chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Pumpkin Spice Version: Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired treat.
• Nutty Bars: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the bars gluten-free.
• Lemon Snickerdoodle Bars: Add lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy spin.
• Extra Cinnamon Flavor: Add cinnamon chips to the batter for more cinnamon goodness.
• Brown Butter Bars: Brown the butter before mixing for a richer, nuttier flavor.
• Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar version.
• Espresso Cinnamon Bars: Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder for a hint of coffee flavor.
• Frosted Bars: Top with cinnamon buttercream frosting for extra indulgence.

Freezing and Storage

To keep your Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars fresh, follow these storage tips:

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Refrigeration: Extend the shelf life by refrigerating the bars for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars or the entire batch in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment

You will need the following equipment to make Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars:

• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: For baking the bars.
• Mixing Bowls: For mixing wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer: For combining ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: For spreading the dough evenly.
• Wire Rack: To cool the bars.
• Knife: For cutting the bars into squares.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Parchment Paper (Optional): For lining the baking pan for easy removal.
• Plastic Wrap (For Storage): To keep the bars fresh during storage.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars:

1. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the bars gluten-free.
2. How do I store the bars?
   Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to 7 days.
3. Can I freeze snickerdoodle cookie bars?
   Yes, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
4. Do I have to use cream of tartar?
   Yes, for the classic snickerdoodle flavor and texture, cream of tartar is essential. You can substitute with lemon juice or white vinegar if needed.
5. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
   You can use brown sugar, but it will change the texture and flavor, making the bars more moist and caramel-like.
6. Can I add other flavors to the bars?
   Yes, adding a hint of nutmeg or cardamom can complement the cinnamon flavor.
7. What should I do if the bars are too dry?
   Make sure not to overbake, as that can lead to dryness. Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce can also help.
8. Can I make a smaller batch?
   Yes, halve the recipe and use an 8×8-inch pan for a smaller batch.
9. What’s the best way to cut the bars?
   Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
10. Can I use salted butter?
    Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.

Print

Conclusion

Homemade Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars are a delightful way to enjoy the beloved flavors of snickerdoodle cookies with a fraction of the effort. Their chewy center, crisp topping, and warm cinnamon flavor create a comforting, irresistible treat that will surely be a hit at any occasion. These bars are perfect for sharing with family and friends, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.

Give this easy recipe a try and watch these bars disappear at your next gathering! I can’t wait to see how they turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Happy baking!