If you love the sweet, soft goodness of sugar cookies but dread the rolling and cutting process, then these Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for you! These bars are soft and chewy, topped with a smooth, creamy frosting that takes them to the next level. They’re perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a great option for last-minute treats. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Cookie Bars:
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large egg
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1 tablespoon milk
For the Frosting:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk
Food coloring (optional)
Sprinkles for topping
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Egg and Extracts: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), beating until well combined.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Stir in 1 tablespoon of milk to help bind the dough; it should be soft.
Bake the Bars: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the center remains soft. Be careful not to overbake!
Make the Frosting: While the bars cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar. Mix in the vanilla and enough milk to achieve a spreadable consistency. If desired, add food coloring to brighten up your frosting.
Frost the Bars: Once the cookie bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Finish with sprinkles for a festive touch.
Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious sugar cookie bars!
Serving Tips:
Cutting the Bars: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the bars into squares for neat, even pieces. For best results, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to prevent sticking.
Serving Temperature: Sugar cookie bars can be served at room temperature or chilled. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes before serving.
Presentation: For a festive touch, plate the bars on a decorative platter and add a sprinkle of extra sprinkles on top. You can also serve them alongside a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Pairing Options: These bars pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages, such as milk, coffee, or tea. Consider serving them with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination!
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Store the sugar cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their soft texture and freshness.
Refrigeration: If you want to extend their shelf life, store the bars in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezing: For longer storage, these bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Frosting Consideration: If you plan to freeze the bars, consider frosting them after thawing for the best texture and appearance. The frosting can also be prepared and stored separately in the fridge for a few days before use.
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FAQs:
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s a 1:1 gluten-free flour that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. The baking process will remain the same.
How can I make these bars dairy-free?
To make sugar cookie bars dairy-free, use dairy-free alternatives for the butter, such as coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Additionally, choose a dairy-free milk, like almond or soy milk, for the frosting.
Can I add mix-ins to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can customize your sugar cookie bars by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit. Just be sure not to overload the dough to maintain the right texture.
How should I store leftover sugar cookie bars?
Store leftover sugar cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion:
These Sugar Cookie Bars are not only simple to make but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Their soft texture, creamy frosting, and customizable decorations make them a delightful treat for all ages. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a sweet snack, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
📖 Recipe:
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Sugar Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these soft and chewy Sugar Cookie Bars topped with creamy frosting—perfect for any celebration! With no rolling or cutting required, these easy-to-make bars are a hit with both kids and adults alike. Customize with food coloring and sprinkles for a festive touch!
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars:
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1 tablespoon milk
For the Frosting:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons milk
Food coloring (optional)
Sprinkles for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and beat until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Stir in 1 tablespoon of milk to help bind the dough; it should be soft.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the center remains soft. Be careful not to overbake!
- While the bars cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar. Mix in the vanilla and enough milk to achieve a spreadable consistency. If desired, add food coloring.
- Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Finish with sprinkles for decoration.
- Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
For best results, do not overbake the bars; they should be soft in the center.
Feel free to customize the frosting with different food coloring or flavor extracts.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12-16 bars
- Calories: 320 kcal
