Oh, friends — I’m so glad you’re here because this one is pure comfort baked into every bite! These Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars are everything we love about the classic cookie — buttery, cinnamon-sugary, soft, and chewy — but in easy bar form. No rolling, no chilling, just mix, bake, and enjoy.
They’re warm, cozy, and perfect for when you want a quick homemade treat that fills your kitchen with that irresistible cinnamon aroma. Whether you’re making them for a bake sale, family dessert, or just to treat yourself, these bars never disappoint.
And if you love easy, no-fuss baking recipes that taste like a cozy hug, make sure to subscribe below to get more sweet and simple treats straight to your inbox!
Overview of the Recipe
These Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars capture all the flavors of the classic cookie — buttery vanilla base, a soft and chewy center, and that signature cinnamon-sugar topping — but they’re so much simpler to make. You’ll mix up one dough, press it into a pan, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and bake until golden and heavenly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: No need to chill or roll dough into balls!
- Perfect texture: Soft, chewy, and just the right amount of sweetness.
- Crowd-pleaser: Great for potlucks, holidays, or lunchbox treats.
- Classic flavor: That nostalgic cinnamon-sugar combo everyone loves.
What They Taste Like
Sweet, buttery, and warmly spiced — each bite melts in your mouth with the familiar flavor of a snickerdoodle cookie. The edges are lightly crisp, the centers perfectly chewy, and the cinnamon sugar on top adds a little sparkle and crunch.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Easy to make with pantry staples.
- No mixer required if you prefer hand mixing.
- Bakes evenly in one pan — minimal cleanup.
- Freezer-friendly and perfect for make-ahead baking!
Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer (optional)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- 8x8 or 9x9-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper (for easy removal)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step creates that classic chewy texture.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms.
Step 6: Spread the Dough
Press the dough evenly into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula or your hands.
Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix together cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the dough.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is just set.
Step 9: Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares or rectangles.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Serve with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or a cozy mug of hot chocolate — perfection!
What to Serve With Snickerdoodle Bars
- A latte or cappuccino for a cozy afternoon treat ☕
- Vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert
- Warm apple cider for fall gatherings
- Or simply by themselves — they’re that good!
Tips for the Best Cookie Bars
- Don’t overbake: The bars will continue to set as they cool, so pull them out when the center still looks slightly soft.
- Use room temperature butter: This ensures a smooth, fluffy batter.
- Line with parchment paper: Makes for easy lifting and slicing.
- Double the batch: They disappear fast — trust me!
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 1 week (chewier texture).
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
General Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Calories: ~200 kcal per bar
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Use a 9x13-inch pan and bake for about 5 minutes longer.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes — use a good-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Q: Can I add mix-ins?
A: Definitely! White chocolate chips or chopped pecans make a delicious addition.
Conclusion
These Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of soft, buttery, and cinnamon-sweet goodness — a timeless treat made even easier. Whether you bake them for a crowd or just for yourself, one bite will remind you why simple recipes are often the best ones.
If you loved this one, don’t miss my Brown Butter Blondies or Cinnamon Sugar Coffee Cake Bars — both are cozy, easy, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell amazing!
Interactive Element
Baked these bars? I’d love to see them!
📸 Share your Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars on Pinterest or tag me on social media — I can’t wait to see your delicious creations!
⭐ Don’t forget to leave a review below — it helps others find and fall in love with this recipe too!
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
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