Snickerdoodle Apple Pie Bars

Picture the taste of apple pie mixed with snickerdoodle cookies. That’s what these snickerdoodle apple pie bars offer in one warm dessert. They have a soft, cinnamon-sugar cookie base. Inside, there’s a gooey apple pie filling. The crumble topping makes every bite taste like fall. Ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or a weekend coffee fix, these bars are easier to make than pie but as comforting.

Why you’ll love this recipe

You’ll love these bars! They mix the warm spice of a snickerdoodle cookie with the gooey, fruity taste of apple pie. They’re simple to make, slice easily for sharing, and taste even better the next day. The cinnamon-sugar topping gives a perfect crunch. It makes the dessert feel both nostalgic and exciting.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups & spoons
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Spatula

Ingredients:

• 4 cups diced apples
• 2 tbsp butter
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ¾ cups flour
• 2 tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 3 tbsp sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Apple Filling

Peel and chop the apples. Cook them in a skillet with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a little nutmeg. Keep cooking until they’re soft and caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Snickerdoodle Dough

Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. In another bowl, mix flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture to form a soft cookie dough.

3. Assemble the Bars

Spread half of the snickerdoodle dough into a parchment-lined 9×13 pan. Layer the apple filling on top, then drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the apples. Gently spread or pat down to cover most of the filling.

4. Add the cinnamon-sugar topping.

Mix sugar and cinnamon. Then, sprinkle it generously over the bars for that classic snickerdoodle flavour.

5. Bake and Cool

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Storage, reheating & serving tips

These bars keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 15 seconds or in a low oven to bring back that fresh-baked taste. They’re tasty by themselves. But you can serve them with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for an extra treat.

FAQs

Can I use canned apple pie filling? 

Yes, but homemade filling gives a fresher flavor.

Do I need cream of tartar? 

Yes, it gives snickerdoodles their signature tang, but you can sub with 2 tsp lemon juice if needed.

Can I make these ahead? 

Yes, they taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.

What apples work best? 

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold up well when baked.

Can I freeze the bars? 

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Final Thought

These snickerdoodle apple pie bars are the perfect treat. They make you want to snuggle up with a blanket and a mug of coffee. They get the best of both worlds: the chewy sweetness of a snickerdoodle and the warm, spiced filling of apple pie. They’re simple to make, easy to share, and guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering. Once you bake a batch, don’t be surprised if they turn into your go-to fall dessert.