Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars

Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars: Soft, Sweet, and Irresistible

If you love soft, chewy, and cinnamon-sugar-coated treats, you’re in for a delightful experience! These Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars bring the classic snickerdoodle flavor into a convenient, easy-to-make bar form. With a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a perfectly spiced sugar topping, these bars are ideal for dessert lovers who crave a warm and comforting bite.

The best part? You only need a few basic ingredients to whip up these bars. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert for a family gathering, a quick treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, or a fun baking project, these chewy snickerdoodle bars will become a new favorite in your home.

Introduction

Snickerdoodles are a timeless classic, loved for their soft centers and crisp, cinnamon-sugar-coated exteriors. But when you turn them into chewy bars, you get all the deliciousness of snickerdoodles in an easier, more convenient form. These bars have the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, with a rich, buttery flavor that makes them absolutely irresistible.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. There’s no need to chill dough or roll individual cookies—just mix, spread, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and bake! The result? A pan of golden, chewy, and utterly delicious snickerdoodle bars that are perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft & Chewy – The perfect combination of a slightly crisp top with a moist, tender center.
Easy to Make – No rolling or chilling required; just mix, bake, and enjoy!
Full of Cinnamon-Sugar Flavor – Classic snickerdoodle taste in every bite.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for dessert, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy night in.
Customizable – Add white chocolate chips, nuts, or even a caramel drizzle for a unique twist.

Ingredients

To make these Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars, you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and chewiness.
1 tsp baking powder – Helps the bars rise slightly, keeping them soft.
1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
1 cup granulated sugar – Creates the perfect level of sweetness.
1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds tenderness.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the warm, comforting flavors.
1 tbsp granulated sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon (for topping) – The signature snickerdoodle coating.

How to Make Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a soft texture.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.

5. Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars dense.

6. Spread and Sprinkle

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the additional granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly over the top of the batter.

7. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing into squares. This helps them set properly.

Pro Tips for the Best Snickerdoodle Bars

Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures even mixing and a uniform texture.
Don’t Overbake – The bars should be slightly soft in the center when removed from the oven, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Extra Cinnamon Sugar? Yes Please! – Sprinkle a bit more on top for an extra-crispy, flavorful crust.
Add-Ins for Variety – White chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a caramel drizzle can add a delicious twist.

Storage & Freezing Tips

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the bars and enjoy them chilled.
Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These chewy snickerdoodle cookie bars are delightful on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate them:

Warm with Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
With Coffee or Tea: Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack.
Drizzled with Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: A rich, decadent addition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I double the recipe? Yes! Simply use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time slightly (about 5-10 minutes longer).

Can I make these gluten-free? Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use salted butter? Yes, but reduce the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed these Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars, check out these other delicious recipes:

Conclusion

These Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of soft, chewy, and cinnamon-sugar goodness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this easy recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. Try them today and enjoy the delightful flavors of classic snickerdoodles in bar form!