Banana Snickerdoodle Bars

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup mashed banana
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar

• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Line an 8x8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on all sides for easy removal.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.

Step 3: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the mashed banana and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat on low speed until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Gradually mix in the flour mixture, stirring until the dough just comes together.

Step 6: Lightly flour your hands and press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Step 7: In a small bowl, whisk together the white sugar and cinnamon for the cinnamon sugar topping. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the dough.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the center of the dough feels set when lightly touched with a finger.

Step 9: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Once cooled, cut into 16 bars and serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	132
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	15mg
Sodium	74mg
Total Carbohydrate	19g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	11g
Protein	1g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	7mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	62mg

Banana Snickerdoodle Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of banana bread with the signature cinnamon-sugar dusting of a snickerdoodle cookie. This unique treat has quickly gained popularity among dessert lovers, especially those looking for a creative way to use up overripe bananas.

Origin of Banana Snickerdoodle Bars

While the exact origin of Banana Snickerdoodle Bars remains unclear, it is believed to have emerged from the American baking tradition, where both banana bread and snickerdoodles are staples. The snickerdoodle itself, a traditional American cookie known for its cinnamon-sugar coating, likely originated in New England in the 19th century. The idea of combining banana bread with snickerdoodle flavors is a modern twist on two beloved recipes, creating a dessert that is as comforting as it is delicious. The versatility of this dish makes it ideal for both casual snacking and festive gatherings.

Regional Features

Banana Snickerdoodle Bars do not have a strong regional association in the United States, as they draw from widely enjoyed ingredients like bananas, cinnamon, and sugar. However, variations of banana bread and snickerdoodles are often found across different American regions. In the Southern U.S., banana bread is a beloved treat, frequently served as a quick breakfast or dessert, while snickerdoodle cookies are enjoyed year-round in many parts of the country. The hybrid form, combining these two desserts, has likely spread across the nation, particularly in home kitchens and modern bakeries.

Distinguishing Features from Similar Dishes

At first glance, Banana Snickerdoodle Bars may resemble other cinnamon-flavored bar cookies, such as Snickerdoodle Blondies or Banana Cake Bars. However, the key difference lies in the texture and flavor profile. While Banana Snickerdoodle Bars retain the soft, moist crumb of banana bread, they are lighter and fluffier, similar to cake. The cinnamon-sugar topping gives them the signature snickerdoodle crunch, making them stand apart from a traditional banana bread or standard cookie bar. The inclusion of cream of tartar in the recipe also helps create a tender, chewy texture that is a hallmark of classic snickerdoodles.

Where Are Banana Snickerdoodle Bars Served?

Banana Snickerdoodle Bars are typically served as a casual snack or dessert in both home and professional kitchens. They are especially popular for gatherings, potlucks, and bake sales. Their easy-to-make nature and versatility make them perfect for a quick treat when you have a couple of overripe bananas to use up. You can find them in cafes and bakeries that specialize in comfort foods or creative twists on classic treats. These bars also make a great accompaniment to coffee or tea, offering a sweet yet slightly spiced flavor that pairs well with a hot beverage.

Interesting Facts About Banana Snickerdoodle Bars

• They are a fantastic way to repurpose overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste, turning them into a delicious dessert.
• The combination of banana bread and snickerdoodle flavors was likely inspired by the growing trend of "hybrid" desserts, which merge two popular recipes into one exciting new creation.
• Banana Snickerdoodle Bars can be made with various add-ins, such as chopped nuts or butterscotch chips, which enhances the flavor and texture even more.
• Many people enjoy experimenting with this recipe by adding spices like cardamom or pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.
• The texture of these bars is lighter than traditional banana bread, making them perfect for those who enjoy a softer, fluffier dessert.

FAQ about Banana Snickerdoodle Bars

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