Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars Recipe

The Best Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars Recipe Ever

Sinking your teeth into a decadent homemade snickerdoodle cheesecake bars that blend creamy richness with classic cinnamon warmth.

The magic starts with a buttery graham cracker base that cradles a silky smooth cheesecake filling.

Soft cinnamon swirls dance across the surface, promising a delightful treat that melts in your mouth.

Every bite whispers comfort and indulgence, transforming an ordinary dessert into something extraordinary.

Sweet hints of vanilla and warm spices create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

This recipe combines the best of two beloved desserts in one irresistible square.

Grab a fork and let the deliciousness begin – these bars are about to become your new obsession.

Reasons To Enjoy Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

  • Burst with Delightful Flavor Combinations: These snickerdoodle cheesecake bars blend the warm, comforting cinnamon-sugar taste of classic snickerdoodle cookies with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake, creating an irresistible dessert that satisfies multiple cravings in one bite.
  • Simplify Dessert Preparation: The recipe offers an easy, straightforward method that doesn't require complicated techniques, making it perfect for home bakers of all skill levels. You can whip up these bars with basic ingredients and minimal kitchen equipment.
  • Perfect for Make-Ahead Occasions: These bars are ideal for preparing in advance, as they can be refrigerated overnight and taste even better after chilling. They're great for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you want a make-ahead dessert that impresses without last-minute stress.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleasing Treat: The combination of familiar snickerdoodle flavors and creamy cheesecake appeals to both kids and adults, making it a universally loved dessert that works for birthdays, holidays, or casual weekend treats.

What Goes In Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

Base Ingredients:
  • Butter, Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Crucial for creating a rich, sweet cookie-like crust with deep caramel undertones. Softened butter ensures smooth mixing and better texture.
  • Egg, Vanilla Extract: Adds richness, binding, and classic flavor to the crust. Use pure vanilla extract for best results.
Flour and Dry Ingredients:
  • Flour, Baking Powder, Salt: Foundation for the crust with proper rise and balanced flavor. Use all-purpose flour for consistent texture.
Cheesecake Layer Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides creamy, tangy base for the cheesecake layer. Room temperature cream cheese blends smoothly.
  • Sugar, Vanilla Extract: Sweetens and enhances the cheesecake's flavor profile. Use granulated sugar for even sweetness.
  • Eggs: Crucial for setting the cheesecake layer and creating a smooth, custard-like texture.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Granulated Sugar, Ground Cinnamon: Creates classic snickerdoodle flavor and adds sweet, aromatic finish. Use fresh ground cinnamon for most intense flavor.

How To Prepare Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F (175C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, making sure some paper hangs over the edges for easy bar lifting later.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Crust

In a big mixing bowl, whip together:
  • Softened butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
Blend until the mixture looks light and puffy. Toss in the egg and vanilla, mixing until everything looks super smooth. In another bowl, whisk:
  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet stuff, stirring until a soft dough forms. Press this delicious dough evenly across the bottom of your prepared pan.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Layer

Grab a medium bowl and beat:
  • Cream cheese
  • Sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Blend until silky smooth. Add eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Pour this dreamy mixture over the crust, spreading it out evenly.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Magical Cinnamon Dust

Mix together:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Ground cinnamon

Shower this sweet-spicy mixture all over the cheesecake layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center looks set and doesn’t wiggle when you nudge the pan.

Step 6: Cool Down and Chill Out

Pull the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature. Pop the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight if you can wait that long).

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Use the parchment paper handles to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares and serve these delectable treats straight from the fridge.

Smart Tricks For Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

  • Customize Crust Consistency: Adjust the crust's texture by adding a pinch more flour if the dough feels too sticky, ensuring a perfect base for your cheesecake bars.
  • Prevent Cracks Smoothly: Avoid over-beating the cheesecake mixture and tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles, creating a silky-smooth top layer.
  • Master Cinnamon Distribution: Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly using a fine-mesh sieve for a uniform, delicate coating that enhances every bite.
  • Slice Like a Pro: Warm your knife with hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for clean, precise squares that showcase the beautiful layers.
  • Store Smartly: Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for a make-ahead treat that stays fresh and delicious.

How To Keep Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars Fresh

  • Refrigerate: Store the Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual bars or the entire batch in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Reheat: Enjoy these bars chilled for the best texture. If you prefer a slightly warm treat, let the bars sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the cheesecake layer become rubbery.
  • Serving Tip: For the freshest taste, consume within 3-4 days of preparation. Separate layers with parchment paper when storing to prevent sticking.

What Tastes Great With Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

  • Pair Creamy Dessert Wines: Select sweet dessert wines like moscato or late harvest riesling that complement the rich, creamy cheesecake texture. These wines enhance the cinnamon warmth and balance the dessert's sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
  • Match Spiced Coffee Companions: Brew a robust espresso or cinnamon-infused coffee to highlight the snickerdoodle's warm spice notes. The coffee's slight bitterness cuts through the cheesecake's richness, creating a harmonious taste experience.
  • Explore Vanilla Bourbon Pairings: Serve with bourbon-based cocktails or aged whiskey that echo the vanilla undertones. The caramel and vanilla hints in these spirits beautifully mirror the cheesecake's complex flavor profile, offering a sophisticated dessert accompaniment.
  • Recommend Chai Tea Delights: Steep a fragrant chai tea with traditional spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger. This aromatic beverage connects wonderfully with the snickerdoodle's warm spice elements, providing a comforting and complementary drink.

Easy Twists For Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

  • Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars: Replace the snickerdoodle crust with chocolate chip cookie dough, adding chocolate chips throughout the base for extra richness and depth of flavor.
  • Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars: Incorporate pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice into the cheesecake layer, creating a seasonal autumn-inspired dessert with warm, comforting spices.
  • Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Bars: Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle chopped pecans for a crunchy, sweet complement to the creamy cheesecake base.
  • Berry Swirl Cheesecake Bars: Swirl raspberry or strawberry preserves into the cheesecake layer before baking, adding a vibrant fruity element and beautiful marbled appearance.

Answers To FAQs On Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

  • What makes these Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars special?

These bars combine the classic cinnamon-sugar flavor of snickerdoodle cookies with the creamy richness of cheesecake, creating a decadent dessert that’s both familiar and unique.

  • Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

While you can use low-fat cream cheese, full-fat cream cheese will give you the best texture and richest flavor for the cheesecake layer.

  • How do I know when the bars are fully baked?

The cheesecake layer should look set but still slightly soft in the center. When you gently shake the pan, it shouldn’t have a liquid-like wobble. A slight jiggle is okay, but it shouldn’t look wet.

  • Is it important to use parchment paper?

Yes! Parchment paper makes removing the bars from the pan much easier and ensures they come out clean and intact without sticking to the pan.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Irresistible snickerdoodle cheesecake bars blend classic cinnamon-sugar magic with creamy cheesecake decadence. Sweet layers melt together, creating a delightful dessert sure to charm anyone seeking comfort and indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

Homemade Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cheesecake Layer Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking surface by lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring overhanging edges for easy extraction.
  2. Create the foundational cookie layer by thoroughly blending softened butter with both sugars until achieving a light, airy consistency. Incorporate egg and vanilla extract, mixing until completely integrated.
  3. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate vessel. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the butter mixture, gently combining until a cohesive dough emerges.
  4. Firmly press the cookie dough into the prepared pan, establishing an even, compact base for the cheesecake layer.
  5. Whip cream cheese until silky smooth, gradually introducing sugar and vanilla extract. Carefully fold in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  6. Gently cascade the creamy cheesecake mixture over the cookie foundation, spreading evenly to create a uniform layer.
  7. Combine ground cinnamon and granulated sugar in a small bowl, then delicately dust the mixture across the cheesecake surface.
  8. Transfer the pan to a preheated 350°F oven, baking for 30-35 minutes until the center stabilizes and loses its liquid wobble.
  9. Extract from oven and allow complete cooling at room temperature, which helps set the delicate texture.
  10. Refrigerate for a minimum of two hours, permitting the bars to firm and develop enhanced flavor complexity.
  11. Utilize parchment paper handles to lift the entire dessert from the pan, then slice into elegant squares.
  12. Serve chilled, presenting a decadent fusion of cinnamon-kissed cookie and luxurious cheesecake.

Notes

  • Butter temperature matters significantly for creating a perfectly smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, so ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing.
  • Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter to prevent air bubbles and cracking, which can compromise the smooth texture of your dessert.
  • Create a water bath by placing the baking pan in a larger pan filled with hot water to help prevent cracks and ensure even baking of the cheesecake layer.
  • Experiment with spice variations by adding nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar topping for a unique flavor twist that elevates the classic snickerdoodle profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star