There’s something undeniably comforting about sugar cookie bars, especially when they come out of the oven, warm and inviting. These bars combine the familiar flavors of classic sugar cookies with a soft, chewy texture that makes them a delightful treat for any occasion. Picture a generous layer of creamy frosting on top, glimmering with colorful sprinkles, just waiting to brighten your day. This recipe is a personal favorite of mine, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sugar cookie bars are not only easy to make, but they also bring joy with every bite. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the sweetness to shine through, and who can resist the buttery aroma wafting through the kitchen? These bars are the ideal canvas for creativity—add sprinkles for color or food coloring for festive flair.
Ingredients Needed For Sugar Cookie Bars
- Cooking Spray: This is essential for greasing your pan and ensuring that your bars come out smoothly.
- 4 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour: Offers structure and a tender crumb. Make sure to measure accurately for the best result!
- 2 tsp Baking Powder: Gives those bars a light and fluffy texture.
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
- 2 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar: The star of the show! This adds sweetness and a lovely, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- 2 cups Unsalted Butter, Softened: Butter is crucial for a rich flavor and soft texture. Let it sit at room temperature for the best results.
- 2 Large Eggs & 1 Large Egg Yolk: Adds moisture and richness—don’t skip the extra yolk as it contributes to the tenderness!
- 1 Tbsp Pure Vanilla Extract: It elevates the flavor, making it warm and inviting.
- 2 cups Confectioners’ Sugar: This will sweeten your frosting and give it that smooth, velvety texture.
- 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter, Softened (for frosting): Again, soft butter is key for that dreamy frosting consistency.
- 2 Tbsp Heavy Cream: It helps thin out the frosting while adding a luxurious feel.
- 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract (for frosting): Just a hint of vanilla brings everything together in the frosting.
- Pink Food Coloring (Optional): Add a touch of color for a festive look!
- Sprinkles (for decorating): Nothing says celebration like sprinkles!
How to Make Sugar Cookie Bars
BARS:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a 13 inch by 9 inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring to leave a 2-inch overhang on two opposite sides. Grease the parchment with cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: In another large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and softened butter using a handheld mixer on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs and egg yolk one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix with a wooden spoon until just combined. Don’t overmix!
Step 5: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden and set in the center. Let it cool.
FROSTING:
Step 1: In a large bowl, use a handheld mixer on medium-high speed to beat together the confectioners’ sugar and softened butter until smooth.
Step 2: Add the heavy cream and vanilla, mixing until thoroughly combined. If you’re using food coloring, add it now and beat until you reach your desired shade.
Step 3: Using the parchment overhang, lift the cooled bar from the pan. Spread the frosting generously over the top and finish with a sprinkle of your favorite decorations.
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Bars
These bars are perfect for any occasion! Serve them at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or as a treat for a movie night. Slice them into squares for easy sharing, and don’t forget a cup of tea or milk for dipping!
How to Store Sugar Cookie Bars
Store your sugar cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them, though they may become a bit firmer. Simply let them come to room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make Sugar Cookie Bars
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on them as they bake; the bars should be golden but still slightly soft in the center.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature allows for better mixing and a more uniform texture.
- Customize Frosting: Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding almond extract or lemon zest to the frosting!
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
- Butter Alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using plant-based butter.
- Flavor Additions: Consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract for a lovely nutty flavor or using lemon zest to brighten the bars up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze sugar cookie bars?
Yes! These cookie bars freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container before placing them in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How thick should the batter be for the bars?
The batter should be somewhat thick but spreadable. It’ll hold its shape when you spread it in the pan but will bake down to a chewy consistency.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the bars and frost them a day ahead of time. Just keep them covered in an airtight container at room temperature.
How can I make the frosting easier to spread?
If your frosting is too thick, add a little more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
What decorations can I use for these bars?
Aside from traditional sprinkles, you can use edible glitter, crushed candy canes for a festive look, or even chocolate chips mixed into the frosting for a bit of extra sweetness!
Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 4 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour Offers structure and a tender crumb.
- 2 tsp Baking Powder Gives the bars a light and fluffy texture.
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt Enhances the sweetness.
- 2 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- 2 cups Unsalted Butter, Softened Crucial for a rich flavor and soft texture.
- 2 Large Eggs Adds moisture and richness.
- 1 Large Egg Yolk Contributes to tenderness.
- 1 Tbsp Pure Vanilla Extract Elevates the flavor.
For the Frosting
- 2 cups Confectioners’ Sugar Gives frosting a smooth texture.
- 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter, Softened Key for dreamy frosting consistency.
- 2 Tbsp Heavy Cream Helps thin out the frosting.
- 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract Brings flavor together.
- 1 drop Pink Food Coloring (Optional) For a festive look.
- to taste Sprinkles (for decorating) For decoration.
Instructions
Making the Bars
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a 13 inch by 9 inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring to leave a 2-inch overhang on two opposite sides. Grease the parchment with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In another large bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and softened butter using a handheld mixer on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs and egg yolk one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix with a wooden spoon until just combined. Don’t overmix!
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden and set in the center. Let it cool.
Making the Frosting
- In a large bowl, use a handheld mixer on medium-high speed to beat together the confectioners’ sugar and softened butter until smooth.
- Add the heavy cream and vanilla, mixing until thoroughly combined. If you’re using food coloring, add it now and beat until you reach your desired shade.
- Using the parchment overhang, lift the cooled bar from the pan. Spread the frosting generously over the top and finish with a sprinkle of your favorite decorations.
