Snickerdoodle Bars take the warm, nostalgic flavor of classic snickerdoodle cookies and transform it into a soft, buttery bar that’s as easy to make as it is irresistible. Each bite is packed with the familiar notes of cinnamon and sugar, wrapped in a tender, chewy texture that melts in your mouth. These bars are comforting, fragrant, and perfect for any occasion, from casual coffee breaks to festive gatherings.
The magic of Snickerdoodle Bars starts with a rich, buttery base. Creamed butter and sugar create a soft, dense texture that’s more like a blondie than a cookie. A touch of vanilla adds depth, while cream of tartar gives that signature tang that sets snickerdoodles apart from other cinnamon desserts. The batter is thick and aromatic, spreading easily into the pan before being dusted generously with cinnamon sugar that caramelizes slightly as it bakes.
As they bake, the bars fill the kitchen with the unmistakable scent of cinnamon and butter. The top develops a delicate crust from the cinnamon sugar, while the interior stays soft and chewy. When sliced, each square offers a perfect balance of sweet, buttery richness and warm spice. The result is a treat that feels both homey and indulgent – simple in appearance but bursting with comforting flavor.
Snickerdoodle Bars are also incredibly versatile. They can be served plain, with a light glaze, or topped with vanilla ice cream or cream cheese frosting for extra decadence. A sprinkle of coarse sugar before baking adds a little sparkle and crunch, making them even more inviting. They travel well, store beautifully, and make an excellent choice for bake sales, lunchbox treats, or dessert tables.
What makes Snickerdoodle Bars so beloved is their ability to evoke nostalgia while offering a modern twist. They’re easy to prepare, full of classic flavor, and irresistibly soft with every bite. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or paired with a cup of coffee the next day, these bars capture the timeless comfort of cinnamon and sugar in the simplest, most satisfying way.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon divided
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1.5 cups sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until just combined.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons sugar with the remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon, then sprinkle over the dough.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the center is set and the edges begin to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients – Softened butter and eggs mix more evenly, creating a smoother batter and a tender, chewy texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter – Once the flour is added, stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the bars dense instead of soft and buttery.
- Line your pan with parchment paper – This makes it easy to lift the bars out after baking and ensures clean, even slices.
- Create the perfect cinnamon-sugar layer – Mix cinnamon and sugar right before sprinkling so it stays dry and coats evenly. A heavier sprinkle gives a lovely crunchy top.
- Avoid overbaking – The bars should look slightly underdone in the center when you remove them from the oven; they’ll continue to set as they cool. This keeps them soft and chewy.
- Cool completely before slicing – Cutting while warm can cause the bars to crumble. Allow them to firm up for clean, perfect squares.
- Add a twist – Stir in white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or swirl cream cheese into the batter for a richer flavor.
- Storage matters – Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- For extra indulgence – Drizzle with vanilla glaze or spread a light layer of cream cheese frosting once cooled for bakery-style presentation.
- Double the batch for sharing – Snickerdoodle Bars freeze beautifully; just wrap them tightly and thaw before serving for a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert anytime.
Nutrition
I made these for a bake sale and they vanished in minutes! Huge hit! Will be the go-to now.
Really? They vanished? I don’t know, I made them once and they were kinda bland. Maybe I did something wrong.
I’m so glad they turned out great for you! Snickerdoodle bars are the best! 😍
Yum! But why so much butter? Could probably cut that back a bit..
Good but I was expecting something different?? Like actual cookies not bars, right? 🤷♂️
These are the best bars I’ve ever made! So fluffy and delicious. Definitely a 5-star recipe! 🌟
Who even eats snickerdoodle bars? 🤔 But the kids loved ’em! Might make again.
Honestly, not my favorite. I think the cinnamon overpowers it too much. 😕
I followed the recipe to the letter, but they turned out dry. Not sure what went wrong. Maybe my oven temp was off?
Maybe try checking your oven temp with a thermometer? Sometimes those dial ovens are way off! But don’t worry, it happens to the best of us.
Delish 😋
5 stars! My kids gobbled these up in no time!
Idk about that baking time, mine were burnt! Should’ve checked sooner.
Just made these for a potluck, and they were a hit! Super easy to make, will def try again.
These bars are delicious! They remind me of my grandma’s snickerdoodles.
I don’t like cinnamon, can I substitute it with cocoa powder? Asking for a friend.
Followed the recipe but they came out too dry. Anyone else have this issue?
This recipe needs more butter. They don’t taste like real snickerdoodles to me.
I completely agree! More butter would definitely make them richer and more delicious. I think I’ll add an extra half cup next time!
Idk, they tasted good to me! But maybe if you like them buttery, just add more like you said.