If you’re looking for the ultimate dessert bar that melts in your mouth and dazzles with every bite, look no further than these snickerdoodle cream cheese bars. They’re the perfect blend of a cinnamon-sugar cookie base and a rich, creamy cheesecake filling all wrapped in a buttery, golden crust.
Whether you’re baking for a potluck, holiday, or just because, these bars are sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation.
Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Bars
Ingredients
For the Snickerdoodle Layers:
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softenedÂ
- 1½ cups granulated sugarÂ
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extractÂ
- 2 tsp cream of tartarÂ
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamonÂ
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softenedÂ
- ¼ cup granulated sugarÂ
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extractÂ
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
- 2 tbsp granulated sugarÂ
- 1 tsp ground cinnamonÂ
The Best Cookie and Cheesecake
Snickerdoodle cream cheese bars are a union of two favorite desserts, the soft, chewy snickerdoodle and the rich, creamy cream cheese filling. They’re ridiculously easy to prepare, with minimal ingredients and prep time involved. And because they freeze beautifully, they’re great for transporting to parties or potlucks, as they’re even more delicious the next day!
How to Make Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Bars
Step 1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2. Create the Cinnamon Sugar
- In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup sugar and 3 tablespoons cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3. Press the Base
- Take half of the cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the baking dish. Lightly flour your hands or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract and beat until it’s creamy and well combined.
Step 5. Assemble
- Pour the cream cheese mixture onto the cookie dough layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Then, take the remaining dough, flatten the pieces in your hands, and place them gently on top of the filling. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover it completely—it will spread during baking.
Step 6. Sprinkle and Bake
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is cooked through.
Step 7. Cool and Serve
- Let the bars cool to room temperature. Then place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. It is then ready to serve.
Tips for the Best Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Bars
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Soften the eggs, butter, and cream cheese for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overbake: The bars will be slightly soft in the middle when taken out they’ll set as they cool.
- Personalize the Spice: Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg for extra spiciness if preferred.
Variations and Customizations
- Add a swirl: Mix a little cinnamon into the cream cheese for a marble effect.
- Pumpkin season twist: Add a few tablespoons of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the filling.
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free cookie dough and double-check your cream cheese and other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions for Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars
These sweet, rich, satisfying bars are self-contained, but here are some delicious and creative ways to serve them:
- With a Cup of Coffee or Tea: Their cinnamon taste and smooth texture pair wonderfully with a comforting cup of coffee or chai tea.
- Topped with Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense bars.
- Drizzled with Caramel Sauce: Give it an extra rich touch by drizzling with warm caramel sauce at serving time.
- Refrigerated and Cubed for Dessert Trays: Cut into small pieces and serve with other finger desserts on party or potluck trays.
- Served with a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: For the complete dessert, serve warm snickerdoodle cream cheese bars with cold vanilla ice cream as a side dish.
Storage for Keeping Your Snickerdoodle Cheese Bars Fresh
- Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Dessert
Snickerdoodle cream cheese bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion—easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and sure to impress. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try.
Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to preheat that oven and bake up a batch. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family.
Nutrition
Total Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 292mg | Total Carbohydrate: 34g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Total Sugars: 22g | Protein: 4g | Vitamin A: 565IU | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 1mg | Potassium: 68mg
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt by half to avoid over-salting.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Just use a larger pan and extend the baking time by 5–10 minutes.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each slice.
How do I prevent the bars from crumbling?
Let them cool completely before cutting which helps them hold together.
Can I use homemade cookie dough?
Absolutely! Homemade snickerdoodle dough works well.