The Best Snickerdoodle Bars
User Reviews
4.5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Additional Time
15 mins
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Total Time
45 mins
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Servings
1 8x8 pan, 9 to 12 generous squares
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Calories
181 kcal
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Course
Baked Goods
The Best Snickerdoodle Bars
Description
The Best Snickerdoodle Bars start with a simple batter made from melted unsalted butter, eggs, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract, combined with all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, and a touch of salt. The cream of tartar adds a slight tang characteristic of traditional snickerdoodles. After mixing, the batter is spread evenly in a foil-lined 8-by-8-inch pan to ensure easy removal and cleanup.
A generous mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon is evenly sprinkled on top, which seeps into the batter during baking. This creates a distinct sweet and spiced top layer with a slight crispness contrasting the soft, chewy interior of the bars. Baking at 350°F until the bars are just set produces a tender texture that avoids dryness.
Once baked and cooled, the bars can be sliced and served as a handheld treat, making them practical for gatherings or as a comforting snack. The cinnamon-sugar topping enhances the classic snickerdoodle experience, providing a recognizable flavor profile in a convenient bar form instead of individual cookies.
Ingredients
Batter
- ½ cup butter melted, unsalted
- 1 egg large
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ¼ teaspoon salt optional and to taste
For Sprinkling
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Instructions
- Batter – Preheat oven to 350F. Line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, spray with cooking spray; set aside.
- In a large, microwave-safe bowl melt the butter, about 1 minute on high power.
- Wait momentarily before adding the egg so you don’t scramble it. Add the egg, sugars, vanilla, and whisk until smooth.
- Add the flour, cream of tartar, optional salt and stir until just combined, don’t overmix.
- Turn batter out into prepared pan, smoothing the top lightly with a spatula; set aside.
- For Sprinkling – In a bowl (same one used for the batter is okay), combine the sugar, cinnamon, and stir.
- Using a small spoon, evenly sprinkle cinnamon-sugar mixture over the prepared pan. Looks like a lot but it sinks down and soaks in while baking.
- Bake for about 24 to 25 minutes, or until done. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, or with a few moist crumbs, but no batter. Place pan on top of a wire rack to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Bars will keep airtight at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
- Adapted from The Best Snickerdoodles
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 18x8 pan, 9 to 12 generous squares
Amount Per Serving
Calories 181 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 | |
| Calories | 181kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 26g | 9% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 8g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Cholesterol | 36mg | 12% |
| Sodium | 53mg | 2% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 17g | 34% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.