Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars

If you love the classic cinnamon-sugar flavor of snickerdoodles but want an easier, more shareable treat, these Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars are exactly what you need. Imagine all the warm, cozy flavors of your favorite snickerdoodle cookie, but in a soft, chewy bar form that’s perfect for slicing, serving, and savoring. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, a family gathering, or just because, these bars are a delicious twist on a timeless favorite. Plus, they come together quickly and use simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Snickerdoodle cookies are beloved for their unique cinnamon-sugar coating and soft center, but bars take that goodness to a whole new level. These bars are incredibly easy to make — no rolling dough or rolling in cinnamon sugar one by one. Instead, the cinnamon-sugar layer is swirled right on top before baking, creating a beautifully caramelized crust with a tender crumb beneath.

The texture is soft and chewy, with just a hint of tang from the cream of tartar, which is a signature ingredient in snickerdoodles. If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy the flavor of snickerdoodles but with less fuss and more flexibility, this recipe is for you. Plus, they’re perfect for lunchboxes, potlucks, or a comforting afternoon snack with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• For the cinnamon-sugar topping:
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

How To Make Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will make removing the bars easier once baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is key for a tender, airy texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the bars can become tough.

Step 6: Spread Dough in Pan

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.

Step 7: Add Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, combine the ¼ cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the dough.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for the softest bars.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift out using the parchment paper and slice into squares.

Expert Tips

• Use room temperature eggs and butter for the best creaming results and texture.
• Don’t skip the cream of tartar — it gives snickerdoodles their classic tang and chewiness.
• If you like your bars extra soft, slightly underbake them; they will firm up as they cool.
• Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
• Make sure to evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar topping to get that signature crust.
• For a more intense cinnamon flavor, lightly toast the cinnamon before mixing it with sugar.
• Use a sharp knife to slice the bars for cleaner edges.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Chip Snickerdoodle Bars: Stir 1 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter before spreading it in the pan.
• Brown Butter Cinnamon Bars: Brown the butter before creaming it with sugar for a rich, nutty flavor.
• Gluten-Free Snickerdoodle Bars: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.
• Vegan Version: Use a vegan butter substitute and replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
• Nutty Bars: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for crunch.
• Spiced Up: Add ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warm spice twist.

How to Store Leftovers

Store the Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate the bars for up to a week—just bring them back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving. For even longer storage, freeze the bars tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then enjoy!

FAQ

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to ¼ teaspoon or omit it entirely to prevent the bars from becoming too salty.

What does cream of tartar do in snickerdoodles?

Cream of tartar adds a slight tangy flavor and helps activate the baking soda, which gives snickerdoodles their characteristic chewy texture and slightly crisp edges.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I keep the bars soft and chewy?

Avoid overbaking by checking the bars a few minutes before the suggested baking time. They should come out with a few moist crumbs on a toothpick. Also, using room temperature ingredients and proper creaming of butter and sugar helps achieve a soft texture.

Conclusion

Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars are a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved cinnamon-sugar flavor without the fuss of rolling and dipping individual cookies. They’re perfect for sharing, easy to slice, and delightfully soft and chewy with a beautiful caramelized cinnamon crust. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with the variations, these bars are sure to become a new favorite for your baking repertoire. So grab your mixing bowl, sprinkle on that cinnamon sugar, and get ready to bake up some warm, comforting sweetness that everyone will love!