Name: Chewy Snickerdoodle Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (topping); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (topping)

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I’m sharing a recipe for chewy Snickerdoodle Bars—soft, cinnamon-sugary bars baked in a 9×13 pan, giving me all the cozy flavor of snickerdoodle cookies without the hassle of scooping individual portions.

Chewy Snickerdoodle Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these bars offer the same warm, nostalgic taste of snickerdoodles with a quicker prep. Everything bakes in one pan, which makes cleanup easy. The texture is chewy and soft with a cinnamon-sugar top that adds just the right crisp. They’re perfect for a quick treat, dessert trays, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cinnamon sugar topping
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350 °F and greasing or lining a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a mixing bowl, I whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In a separate bowl, I beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then I add the eggs and vanilla and mix until fully combined.
I slowly stir in the dry ingredients until just mixed, being careful not to overwork the dough.
I press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Then I mix the cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle it generously over the top.
I bake the bars for 25 to 28 minutes, until the edges are set and the center looks just a bit soft. After baking, I let them cool completely before cutting.

Servings and timing

Makes about 24 bars
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 25–28 minutes
Total time: around 35–40 minutes including cooling

Variations

I sometimes add 1 cup of white chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries for a twist.
To make a smaller batch, I halve the recipe and bake it in an 8×8 pan, reducing the bake time slightly.
I like topping them with a thin layer of cream cheese frosting for a more indulgent version.

storage/reheating

I store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, I freeze them in a sealed container or bag, separated with parchment. To serve, I thaw them at room temperature.
If I want them warm, I reheat individual bars in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

What does cream of tartar do in snickerdoodles?

It adds a signature tangy flavor and keeps the bars chewy. Without it, I find the flavor more neutral and the texture less tender.

Can I make this dough into cookies instead of bars?

This dough is thicker and more suited for bars. If I want cookies, I use a snickerdoodle-specific cookie recipe for better spreading and shape.

How do I know when the bars are done?

I look for firm edges and a soft but not raw center. The middle should no longer jiggle, and it firms up as it cools.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, I double it and use a larger sheet pan, adjusting the bake time and keeping an eye on the center. It’s great for bake sales and parties.

Why are my bars dry or crumbly?

They likely baked too long. I remove them as soon as the center looks set. Also, I make sure to measure the flour correctly—too much flour leads to dryness.

Conclusion

These chewy snickerdoodle bars are one of my favorite easy desserts. They combine everything I love about classic cookies—warm cinnamon, soft centers, and crisp edges—into a no-fuss, sliceable treat. Whether I’m baking for a party or just craving something sweet, these bars always deliver.