Easy Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Sometimes, a gathering calls for treats that are not only delicious but also easy to make, and nothing says “fun” quite like these colorful sugar cookie bars! These soft and buttery bars are topped with creamy frosting and decorated with bright sprinkles, making them a perfect treat for parties, gifts, or cozy evenings at home.

If you’re looking for a quick, fun, and crowd-pleasing dessert, this Easy Sugar Cookie Bars recipe is the one for you. With a simple cookie base, light frosting, and a sprinkle of joy on top, this dessert will bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who:

• Wants a quick and easy dessert without the hassle of cutting out individual cookies.
• Needs a make-ahead treat for holiday parties or gatherings.
• Craves that perfect combination of soft sugar cookie texture and sweet frosting.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these bars are foolproof and come together in no time. Plus, they taste as good as they look!

Ingredients for Easy Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious bars:

Cookie Base:

• ½ cup butter (softened)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 2 tablespoon brown sugar (25g)
• 1 large egg
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (125g)
• 3 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Frosting:

• 4 tablespoon butter (softened, salted or unsalted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoon heavy cream
• 1 cup powdered sugar (125g)
• sprinkles (for decoration)

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cookie Layer

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper or foil, making sure to leave enough overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes of mixing.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated.

4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Add the flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt to the bowl. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix, as this can make the bars tough. The dough will be thick, but that’s okay.

5. Bake the Cookie Layer

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden, but the center will still look a bit underdone—that’s perfect. The bars will continue to firm up as they cool.

6. Cool Completely

Allow the cookie base to cool completely in the pan before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting into the warm cookie base.

How to Make the Frosting

1. Whip the Butter and Powdered Sugar

In a large bowl, whip the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and combined.

2. Add the Vanilla and Cream

Pour in the vanilla extract and heavy cream. Continue whipping until the frosting becomes light, fluffy, and smooth, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

3. Frost the Cookie Bars

Once the cookie layer has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Feel free to add more or less frosting based on your preference.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 8×8 baking pan
• Parchment paper or foil
• Spatula

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking the Cookie Layer

The key to soft and chewy sugar cookie bars is not overbaking. The bars should look slightly underdone in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool.

2. Overmixing the Dough

Once the dry ingredients are added, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookie bars.

3. Applying Frosting to a Warm Cookie Base

Always wait for the cookie base to cool completely before frosting. If the base is warm, the frosting will melt and become runny.

Storing and Freezing Your Sugar Cookie Bars

To Store

These sugar cookie bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, you can store them in the fridge, which will also help set the frosting.

To Freeze

You can freeze these cookie bars unfrosted. Once they’ve cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and then frost and decorate.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a festive look, slice these bars into small squares and serve them on a holiday-themed platter. You can also:

• Create layers: Serve them on a tiered cake stand for an elegant holiday dessert table.
• Wrap as gifts: Individually wrap squares in clear cellophane with a festive ribbon for a homemade holiday gift.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Flavor Twist: You can add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie base for a holiday spice flavor.
• Colorful Frosting: Add a few drops of food coloring to the frosting to match your holiday color theme—think red, green, or even gold!
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! If you’re baking for a crowd, you can double the ingredients and bake the bars in a 9×13 pan. The baking time may need to be adjusted slightly, so keep an eye on them.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

No problem! The almond extract adds a subtle flavor, but you can omit it if you don’t have any on hand or if you prefer not to use it.

How do I make the frosting thicker?

If your frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

For best results, stick with butter. Margarine may not provide the same rich flavor or texture.

Conclusion

These Easy Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect way to add a little sweetness and joy to any occasion. Not only are they delicious and easy to make, but they also bring a sense of fun with every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a party or giving them as gifts, they’re sure to be a hit!

Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family and subscribe to the blog for more holiday recipes!

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