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When crafting the perfect soft baked snickerdoodle bars, achieving a balance of flavors is crucial. While this classic dessert is primarily known for its sweetness, it’s essential to consider the role of acidity and umami in enhancing the overall taste profile. The classic snickerdoodle flavor is derived from the combination of sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of cream of tartar, which introduces a mild acidity that helps to cut through the sweetness of the sugar.

Soft Baked Snickerdoodle Bars

Discover the joy of baking with soft baked snickerdoodle bars, a chewy, cinnamon-sugar delight perfect for any occasion. This article walks you through the entire baking process, from choosing the right ingredients to mastering preparation techniques. With a rich history and endless variations, these bars are a family favorite that evoke warmth and nostalgia. Elevate your dessert game and impress your loved ones with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to be a hit!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

1 cup brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons cream of tartar

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon cinnamon

¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhanging to help lift the bars out later.

    Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.

      Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

        Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.

          Incorporate Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.

            Bake the Bars: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the batter.

              Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

                Cool and Cut: Let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out and transfer them to the wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

                  Enjoy: Serve these decadent soft baked snickerdoodle bars warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 40 min | 16 bars