Are you ready to indulge in a sweet treat that combines classic snickerdoodle cookies with creamy cheesecake? My Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars are your new favorite dessert! This easy recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have at home. In just a few steps, you’ll create a delicious layer of cinnamon-spiced cookie goodness topped with a rich cheesecake filling. Trust me, these bars won’t last long—and you’ll want to make them again!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of cinnamon and creamy cheesecake creates a delightful balance that's hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into bars, they are great for parties, potlucks, or just to enjoy with friends and family.
- Make Ahead Treat: These bars can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them a convenient dessert option.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
I use all-purpose flour as the base for these bars. The cream of tartar gives them that classic snickerdoodle taste. Baking soda helps them rise, while salt enhances all the flavors.
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Softened butter adds creaminess. Granulated sugar sweetens the mix. The egg binds everything together, and vanilla extract brings warmth to the bars.
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cheesecake filling)
- Extra cinnamon sugar for topping (2 tablespoons sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon)
Cream cheese creates a rich filling. Powdered sugar sweetens it just right. Adding cinnamon gives the cheesecake a cozy flavor. The topping of cinnamon sugar makes the bars extra special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang for easy removal.
Making the Cookie Base
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set this aside.
- In a large bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer until creamy and light (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mix. Beat until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. This forms your dough.
Assembling the Bars
- Press about two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. It may be crumbly, so press it down firmly with your fingers.
- For the cheesecake filling, beat 2 packages of softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth. Add ½ cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the crust in the pan.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the cheesecake filling. Make sure to create an even layer of crumbs.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cinnamon sugar mixture over the top.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges and a set center to know it’s done.
Cooling and Serving
- Once baked, cool the bars completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, use room temperature ingredients. This means letting your butter and cream cheese sit out for a bit. When ingredients mix well, you get a smoother batter.
Bake the bars for 30 to 35 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges and a set center. If you bake too long, the bars can dry out. Keep an eye on them!
Variations for Different Flavors
Want to mix things up? Try adding chocolate chips to your snickerdoodle cheesecake bars. Just fold in a cup of chocolate chips into the crust.
Another fun idea is a pumpkin spice version! Swap in pumpkin puree for some of the cream cheese. Add a bit of nutmeg and cloves for that cozy flavor.
Decorating Your Bars
Make your bars even more special with extra toppings. You can drizzle melted chocolate or caramel on top. Whipped cream also makes a great finishing touch.
For a pretty presentation, cut the bars into squares. Place them on a colorful plate and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. This adds a nice look and extra flavor!
Pro Tips
- Chill Your Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing, resulting in a smoother cheesecake filling.
- Perfect Crust Texture: If the dough is too crumbly to press in the pan, try adding a tablespoon of milk to help bind it together.
- Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the bars in the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and a soggy bottom.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change up the flavor of your snickerdoodle cheesecake bars with fun twists. For a fall treat, add pumpkin puree and spices. This gives a warm, cozy taste. In winter, try peppermint extract for a festive touch. You can also add nuts for crunch. Chopped pecans or walnuts work great. They add a nice texture and flavor.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free bars, use a gluten-free flour blend instead. Many brands offer good options that work well in baking. For a dairy-free version, swap cream cheese with cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese. These options keep the creamy texture you love without dairy.
Serving Suggestions
These bars taste great on their own, but you can take them up a notch. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This adds richness and balances the sweetness. These bars are perfect for any occasion. Bring them to holidays, parties, or just enjoy them at home. They are sure to impress!
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To store your Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and moist. You can layer parchment paper between bars to avoid sticking. Store them for up to five days.
For best practices, make sure the bars are completely cool before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. If you want to keep the taste fresh, avoid cutting them until you're ready to serve.
Long-term Storage
If you want to save your bars for later, freezing them is a great option. First, cut the bars and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months.
To thaw before serving, simply transfer the bars to the fridge overnight. For a quick thaw, leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This way, they stay soft and delicious.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, expect your Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars to last about five days. If frozen, they maintain their quality for three months. After thawing, enjoy them within three days for the best flavor and texture. Keeping track of storage helps you enjoy these treats at their best!
FAQs
What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?
You can use Greek yogurt as a great alternative to cream cheese. It gives a similar texture. Ricotta cheese works well too. For a vegan choice, try cashew cream or silken tofu. These swaps keep the creaminess you want in these bars.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done?
Check for a slight jiggle in the center. The edges should look set and golden. You can use a toothpick to test the cheesecake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done. Let them cool completely for the best texture.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bars in advance! Once they cool, store them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to five days. You can also slice them and pack them for easy snacks. Just remember to keep them covered.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture. You can also try almond flour or coconut flour. These options keep the bars tasty while being gluten-free.
This post covered all the key steps to make delicious cheesecake bars. We discussed the ingredients, preparation, baking, and storage. You learned how to create the cookie base, cheesecake filling, and various flavor options. You also explored tips for perfect texture and creative serving ideas.
Make these bars your own with flavors and toppings. Enjoy them at special events or just for fun! Baking is easy when you follow these steps. Now, get in the kitchen and start baking!
