Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Bars

If you’re a fan of warm spices, cozy flavors, and that perfect balance of soft and chewy, these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Bars are about to become your new obsession. Imagine the classic snickerdoodle cookie transformed into a luscious bar, layered with the rich, fruity depth of apple butter. It’s like fall on a plate, but you can enjoy it all year round. With a tender crumb, a cinnamon-sugar topping, and the subtle tang of cream of tartar, these bars are the ultimate treat for any occasion — whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving something sweet and comforting at home.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There’s something so satisfying about a dessert that combines familiarity with a delightful twist. These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Bars bring together the soft chewiness of a snickerdoodle cookie with the moist, fruity flavor of apple butter. The cinnamon-sugar topping adds a slight crunch, making every bite a texture sensation. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, an afternoon snack, or a weeknight dessert, these bars deliver consistent deliciousness you’ll want to come back to again and again.

What’s in the Bowl

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for our soft, tender bars.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bars rise and stay light.
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar – Adds that classic snickerdoodle tang and chew.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – For richness and moisture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and contributes to that chewy texture.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed – Adds a hint of molasses flavor and softness.
• 2 large eggs – Bind everything together and add moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For warm, aromatic depth.
• 1 cup apple butter – The star ingredient that infuses fruity, spiced flavor.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – Mixed into the dough and topping for that signature snickerdoodle spice.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping) – Sprinkled on top for a sweet, crunchy finish.

Must-Have Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan – Perfect size for these bars, ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Electric mixer or stand mixer – To cream butter and sugars until fluffy.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy is key for perfect texture.
• Rubber spatula – To fold the ingredients gently and scrape the bowl.
• Cooling rack – Allows bars to cool evenly without sogginess.

Cook Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Bars Like This

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Apple Butter

Mix in the apple butter until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Sprinkle this evenly over the batter in the pan.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack before slicing into squares. This helps them set perfectly and hold their shape.

No-Store Runs Needed

• All-purpose flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar are pantry basics you likely have on hand.
• Butter and sugars are common staples in most kitchens.
• Eggs and vanilla extract are standard baking essentials.
• Apple butter can be homemade or store-bought, but it’s often a staple during fall and winter months.
• Cinnamon and sugar are kitchen must-haves for countless recipes.

Cook’s Commentary

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Bars are a beautiful marriage of comfort and creativity. The apple butter adds moisture and a subtle fruity tang that elevates the classic snickerdoodle flavor.

Using cream of tartar is critical here — it gives the bars that iconic snickerdoodle chew and a slight tang that cuts through the sweetness. The cinnamon-sugar topping adds a delightful crunch and extra spice, making these bars addictive.

If you love the flavor of traditional snickerdoodles, you might also enjoy Caramel Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies or even the decadent Nutella Snickerdoodles for a fun twist.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

• Once baked and cooled, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped bars in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months without compromising flavor or texture.
• To thaw, leave the bars at room temperature for a few hours or warm gently in the microwave for a soft, fresh-baked experience.

Reader Q&A

Can I substitute the apple butter with something else?

You can try using pumpkin butter or pear butter for a similar fruity depth, but apple butter is ideal for its balance of sweetness and spice that complements the snickerdoodle base perfectly.

Will these bars be soft or crispy?

These bars are designed to be soft and chewy with a slight crisp on the edges from the cinnamon-sugar topping. They’re not crispy like a cracker but have a tender crumb with a delightful bite.

Do I need to use cream of tartar?

Cream of tartar is essential for that authentic snickerdoodle tang and texture. If you don’t have any, you can substitute with an equal amount of baking powder, but the flavor and chew will be slightly different.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still yield delicious results.

Keep Cooking

• For more seasonal favorites, try our Caramel Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies.
• If you love nutty flavors, the Nutella Snickerdoodles are a must-bake.
• Explore more bar recipes to satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Browse our collection of easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing desserts.

Save & Share

If you make these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Bars, don’t forget to save the recipe and share your delicious results with friends and family. They’re the perfect treat to brighten any day or celebration!

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Bars bring warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of fruity spice all in one perfect dessert. Whether you’re baking for yourself or a crowd, these bars promise big flavor and big smiles. Happy baking!

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