Description

Dense, chewy cookie bars with a soft cake-like center and a signature crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust. Easier than traditional cookies and perfect for holidays or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 cups (400g) light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (for topping)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides, and grease lightly.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and scrape down the sides of the bowl.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Transfer the dough to the prepared baking dish and press it evenly into the corners to create a uniform thickness.
In a small bowl, mix the 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top and press lightly to adhere.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are golden brown and the center is set but slightly soft.
Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang and slicing into squares.

Notes

Butter must be softened but not melted. Do not overmix the dough to maintain chewiness. Bars must cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 320
Sugar: 34
Sodium: 220
Fat: 12
Saturated Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 52
Fiber: 1
Protein: 4

Keywords: snickerdoodle bars, brown sugar cookies, cinnamon sugar crust, chewy cookie bars, easy dessert, holiday baking, make-ahead dessert