Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

Imagine transforming the classic snickerdoodle cookie into a decadent cheesecake bar.

You’ll start with a buttery crust, then layer it with a rich cream cheese filling, infused with the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon and sugar.

Achieving the perfect balance of tanginess with sour cream is key.

As they bake to golden perfection, the aroma will captivate your senses.

Discover how to create this irresistible treat step-by-step.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 9×13 inch baking dish
• 1 large mixing bowl
• 1 medium mixing bowl
• 1 electric mixer
• 1 spatula
• 1 knife
• 1 measuring cup set
• 1 measuring spoon set

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while making Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars, follow this timeline:

1. Reading & Preparation (10 minutes)
   • Spend a few minutes reading through the recipe and instructions to familiarize yourself with the process and guarantee you have all necessary ingredients and equipment.
2. Prep Time (20 minutes)
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Gather all your ingredients and equipment.
   • Combine the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
   • Cream together the butter and sugar in a medium mixing bowl.
   • Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, then gradually incorporate the dry ingredients to form the dough.
   • Press half of the dough into the baking dish.
   • Prepare the cream cheese mixture and spread it over the dough in the baking dish.
   • Crumble the remaining dough over the cream cheese layer and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
3. Cook Time (45 minutes)
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 45 minutes until the top is golden brown.
   • Use this time to clean up the workspace and wash any used utensils.
4. Resting Time (2 hours)
   • Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature.
   • Let the bars rest for at least 2 hours to set firmly before slicing.

Total Time: Approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes (including reading and cleaning time).

Following this timeline will help you manage your time effectively, guaranteeing that your Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly while also allowing you to clean up as you go. Enjoy your delicious homemade dessert!

Recipe Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.

In a medium mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to form the dough.

Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom of the 9×13 inch baking dish.

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.

Add confectioners’ sugar to the cream cheese mixture and mix until combined.

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pressed dough in the baking dish.

Crumble the remaining dough over the cream cheese layer.

Mix 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar in a small bowl, then sprinkle it over the dough.

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

Serving Tips

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each bar for a creamy contrast to the cinnamon flavor.
• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra touch of sweetness and fluffiness.
• Fresh Berries: Garnish with a few fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and a revitalizing taste.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the bars for a rich and decadent addition.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Storage

To store Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped bars for up to three months.

Freezing

To freeze Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars, allow them to cool completely.

Cut into individual pieces.

Wrap tightly in plastic, and place in an airtight container.

Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

To reheat Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars, use a microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Or use an oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.

Make sure they don’t overheat or dry out.

Final Thoughts

Creating homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars is a delightful way to enjoy a classic American dessert with a twist.

These bars offer a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon sugar.

The combination of a buttery crust and a smooth cheesecake layer makes them irresistible.

Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them as a treat for yourself, these bars are sure to be a hit.

Remember to allow them to cool completely for the best texture. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Gluten-Free Flour for All-Purpose Flour?

You can substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour, but guarantee it’s a 1:1 blend for baking. Check for added binders like xanthan gum to maintain structure. Expect a slightly different texture, but the flavor should remain delightful.

What Can I Use as a Substitute for Sour Cream?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche. Use equal amounts for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Confirm it’s full-fat for richness. This substitute keeps your dessert moist and flavorful.

Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegan?

Yes, you can make it vegan. Substitute vegan butter for unsalted butter, use egg replacer, and swap cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based versions. Confirm all ingredients are dairy-free, maintaining the original flavors.

Can I Reduce the Sugar Amount Without Affecting the Texture?

Yes, you can reduce sugar, but be cautious. Decrease granulated sugar by 25% to maintain texture. Consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol for sweetness. The cheesecake layer’s sugar stabilizes its structure, so avoid reducing it considerably.

How Can I Add a Twist to the Basic Snickerdoodle Flavor?

To add a twist, incorporate a teaspoon of nutmeg and a splash of almond extract into the dough. Enhance the cream cheese layer with a swirl of caramel sauce for a rich, indulgent flavor profile.