The Best Snickerdoodle Bars
If you’re a fan of classic desserts, then you’re in for a treat with these soft and chewy snickerdoodle bars. They capture all the deliciousness of traditional snickerdoodle cookies but in a quick and easy bar form. Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet snack, these bars are sure to please everyone. With their buttery flavor, subtle cinnamon spice, and soft texture, they are simply irresistible. Let’s dive into the details of how to make The Best Snickerdoodle Bars!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. Unlike cookies that require scooping and baking in batches, these snickerdoodle bars come together in one bowl and bake all at once. They’re adaptable, allowing you to add your own twist while still delivering that iconic snickerdoodle taste. Plus, the combination of granulated and brown sugar gives them a depth of flavor that’s absolutely divine.
What You’ll Gather
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted – This is the base for our bars, providing richness and moisture.
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binder to hold the ingredients together.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create that signature texture.
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed – Enhances the flavor and moisture of the bars.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, comforting aroma.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – The main dry ingredient that gives structure.
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar – Essential for achieving that classic snickerdoodle tang.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, optional and to taste – Balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – For rolling the bars in cinnamon sugar.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon – The spice that defines snickerdoodles.
Must-Have Equipment
- Mixing bowl – A large bowl for combining your ingredients.
- Whisk or spatula – For mixing everything together smoothly.
- 9×13-inch baking pan – The perfect size for baking these bars.
- Parchment paper – Optional, but it makes removing the bars easier.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Cook The Best Snickerdoodle Bars Like This
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal later. This step is crucial for ensuring your bars don’t stick.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Add the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your bars to remain soft and chewy.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix together the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. This will be used for the topping.
Step 6: Spread the Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
Step 7: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar
Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top of the batter. This will create a delightful crust as the bars bake.
Step 8: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Seasonal Twists
- Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodle Bars – Add 1/2 cup of pure pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a fall twist.
- Chocolate Chip Snickerdoodle Bars – Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
- Maple Snickerdoodle Bars – Substitute maple syrup for half of the granulated sugar for a unique flavor.
- Nutty Snickerdoodle Bars – Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Behind the Recipe
The inspiration for these bars comes from the classic snickerdoodle cookies that many of us grew up loving. The combination of sugar and cinnamon creates a warm and inviting flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a potluck, or just because, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re easy to make and even easier to devour!
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your snickerdoodle bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Common Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1, and your bars will still turn out delicious.
How do I know when the snickerdoodle bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Can I add mix-ins to the batter?
Definitely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the batter for an extra flavor boost.
Final Thoughts
These bars are a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of snickerdoodles in a convenient format. Perfect for gatherings, lunch boxes, or a sweet treat after dinner, The Best Snickerdoodle Bars are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Easy to make and even easier to share, you’ll find that these bars hit the spot every time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare for a baking experience that will fill your home with the warm and inviting aroma of cinnamon and sugar. Enjoy every bite!
The Best Snickerdoodle Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- Step 2: Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Step 4: Add flour, cream of tartar, and salt. Stir gently until just combined to keep bars soft.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon for the topping.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
- Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Step 9: Let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting.
Notes
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
