Description

A simple, affordable, and kid-approved dessert made with pantry staples. These sheet pan bars capture the warm cinnamon-sugar flavor of snickerdoodles with minimal cleanup and maximum yield.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated white sugar (for batter)
1/2 cup granulated white sugar (for coating)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for batter)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides, and grease lightly.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat on medium-low speed until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Spread the thick batter evenly into the prepared pan, pressing firmly into the corners.
Mix the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar with the 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the batter and press gently to adhere.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and the center is set but slightly soft. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.
Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang and cutting into squares.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened but not melted for best texture. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid dry bars. Bars continue to cook after removal from the oven, so do not overbake. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 1/24
Calories: 180
Sugar: 20
Sodium: 120
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 0.5
Protein: 2

Keywords: snickerdoodle bars, sheet pan bars, budget baking, fall dessert, easy cookies, cinnamon sugar bars, kid-friendly dessert