Name: Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485966H44M50S
Total time: PT-485966H44M50S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon cream of tartar; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping); ¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping)

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Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars are the ultimate sweet treat that combines the classic flavors of cinnamon and sugar in an easy-to-make bar form. They are soft, chewy, and packed with that warm, comforting taste that makes snickerdoodles so beloved. Perfect for any occasion, these cookie bars are simple to whip up and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how simple and easy these Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars are to make. Unlike traditional cookies that require rolling individual dough balls, these bars are baked in one pan and cut into squares, saving me time and effort. The flavor is spot-on with the perfect balance of cinnamon-sugar, and they stay wonderfully chewy for days. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen while they bake is irresistible!

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon cream of tartar
¼ teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish before slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 9 large bars or 16 smaller bars. It takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, so the total time is around 40-45 minutes.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Vegan: Substitute the butter with dairy-free butter and the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and let sit for 5 minutes).
Nutty: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delicious crunch in the bars.
Frosted: For an extra indulgent treat, top the bars with a light glaze or cream cheese frosting.

Storage/Reheating

I usually store these cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

I prefer to use unsalted butter for the best flavor, but margarine can be used as a substitute if necessary. Just note that the texture might change slightly.

Can I freeze these snickerdoodle bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well! After they’ve cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for a few hours.

Can I add more cinnamon to the dough?

If you love cinnamon like I do, feel free to add an extra teaspoon to the dough for an extra cinnamon kick!

Why are my snickerdoodle bars not chewy?

To achieve the perfect chewy texture, make sure not to overbake the bars. They should be soft in the center when you remove them from the oven. Let them cool fully before cutting.

Can I double this recipe?

If you need a larger batch, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly—check for doneness after about 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars are the perfect treat for anyone who loves cinnamon and sugar. They are easy to make, incredibly delicious, and stay soft and chewy for days. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a simple snack, they are always a hit. I hope you enjoy these as much as I do!