Sugar Cookie Bars

Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect treat for busy home cooks. They combine the classic flavors of sugar cookies with the ease of a simple bar. With just one baking pan, you can whip up these delightful bars in no time. The fluffy texture and sweet frosting make them perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to cozy family gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t love a classic sugar cookie? Let’s dive into how to make these delicious bars!

Emma Hale Story

Growing up, my favorite memories were in the kitchen with my mom. She often made sugar cookies on special occasions, filling the house with a sweet aroma. As I got older, I wanted to recreate those special moments. That’s when I discovered these Sugar Cookie Bars. They have the same delightful taste, but they are much easier to make. I can quickly prepare them, frost them, and serve them to family and friends. It’s the perfect recipe to bring back those happy moments!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore these Sugar Cookie Bars for many reasons! First, they are incredibly easy to make. With just a few steps, you can enjoy a tasty treat. The soft, chewy texture makes them irresistible, and the creamy frosting adds a special touch. People love to save this recipe on Pinterest because it’s a crowd-pleaser. You can customize the frosting color to match any occasion, making them perfect for holidays or birthday parties. Plus, these bars are great for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Ingredients

1 – 1/2 cup butter – Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.
2 – 3/4 cup sugar – Use granulated sugar for the best sweetness.
3 – 1 whole egg – This helps bind the ingredients together.
4 – 1 tsp vanilla extract – A must for that classic flavor!
5 – 1/2 tsp almond extract – Adds a touch of nuttiness.
6 – 3 Tbsp cream cheese; softened – Provides moisture and richness.
7 – 1 tsp baking powder – This helps the bars rise.
8 – 2 cups all-purpose flour – The key ingredient for structure.
9 – 1/4 cup butter; softened – For the frosting.
10 – 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting perfectly.
11 – 2 Tbsp milk – Helps to achieve the right frosting consistency.
12 – 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – For added flavor in frosting.
13 – Pink food coloring gel (optional) – For festive fun!
14 – Sprinkles (optional) – To make the bars visually appealing.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Bars

1 – Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9 x 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2 – In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
3 – Add the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cream cheese. Mix well, scraping the sides of the bowl.
4 – Gradually mix in flour and baking powder until a thick dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
5 – Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until set and lightly golden.
6 – Allow to cool for a few minutes.
7 – For the frosting, beat together butter, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and optional pink food coloring. Adjust consistency as needed.
8 – Spread frosting generously on the cooled cookie bars. Add sprinkles if desired, and cut into 16 squares. Enjoy!

How to Serve

These Sugar Cookie Bars are great on their own but can be even better when served with some sides. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. For a fun twist, serve them alongside ice cream for a delicious dessert sundae. You can also present them on a festive plate for parties or special occasions. The vibrant colors of the frosting and sprinkles make them visually appealing. Your guests will be tempted to take seconds!

How to Perfect This Recipe

To ensure your Sugar Cookie Bars turn out perfectly, here are some tips. First, use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. This helps achieve a smooth batter. Make sure not to overmix the dough. This keeps the bars soft and chewy. When spreading the dough in the pan, use a spatula for even layers. Let the bars cool completely before frosting for the best result. If you want a richer taste, consider using high-quality butter for the frosting. Lastly, feel free to experiment with different colors and sprinkles to make them your own!

Common Mistakes

– Overmixing the dough: It can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined.
– Not letting the bars cool: Frosting warm bars will melt the frosting. Always let them cool completely first.
– Using cold butter: Make sure your butter is softened; it’s easier to blend!
– Incorrect oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage and Reheating

Store your Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They will stay fresh for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars in the fridge overnight. You can warm them in the microwave for a few seconds if you want that freshly baked taste again. Enjoy them as a quick snack anytime!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.

How can I make these bars more festive?
Add seasonal sprinkles or food coloring to the frosting. You can also shape them with cookie cutters after cutting!

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the frosting a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good mix before using.

Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
No, these bars can be stored at room temperature. However, if you live in a warm climate, you may want to refrigerate them to keep them fresh.

Conclusion

Give these Sugar Cookie Bars a try! They’re easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Plus, your friends and family will love them. Enjoy the fun of creating sweet memories in the kitchen. Happy baking!