Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Introduction

Sugar cookie bars are a delicious twist on classic sugar cookies, offering a soft, chewy texture that’s easy to share. Topped with creamy frosting and sprinkles, they’re perfect for parties or a sweet treat any day.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 whole egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 3 Tbsp cream cheese, softened
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter, softened (for frosting)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 Tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
• Pink food coloring gel (optional)
• Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9 x 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cream cheese, mixing until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Step 3: Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing until a thick cookie dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
4. Step 4: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan using a spatula. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until set and lightly golden on top. Allow to cool for a few minutes.
5. Step 5: While the bars cool, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pink food coloring gel if using. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if too thick or more powdered sugar if too thin.
6. Step 6: Once the bars have cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top. Add sprinkles if desired. Cut into 16 square bars and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a classic vanilla flavor, omit the almond extract or substitute with lemon zest.
• Use clear or white frosting instead of pink if you prefer a simpler look.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help create a denser texture.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting for a sweet and salty contrast.

Storage

Store the sugar cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired, but they are best enjoyed at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can substitute margarine if needed. Keep in mind it may alter the taste slightly.

How do I prevent the frosting from becoming too runny?

Start with less milk and add it gradually while mixing. If the frosting gets too thin, add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it back up.

Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 124 reviews

These Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, baked to a perfect soft and chewy texture in a convenient bar form. Topped with a creamy vanilla frosting and optional sprinkles, they make a sweet treat perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 whole egg
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp. almond extract
• 3 Tbsp. cream cheese, softened
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Frosting

• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 Tbsp. milk
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• Pink food coloring gel (optional)
• Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a 9 x 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
2. Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and softened cream cheese and continue beating until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour and baking powder into the wet ingredients, mixing until a thick cookie dough batter forms. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
4. Bake the Cookie Bars: Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan using a spatula. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bars are set and the top turns a light golden brown. Allow the bars to cool for a few minutes.
5. Prepare the Frosting: While the cookie bars cool, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pink food coloring gel in a medium bowl. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if too thick or more powdered sugar if too thin.
6. Frost and Serve: Once the cookie bars have cooled sufficiently, spread the frosting generously over the top. Decorate with sprinkles if desired. Cut into 16 square bars and enjoy!

Notes

• Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother dough.
• Do not overmix the dough to keep the bars tender and chewy.
• Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
• Adjust frosting consistency to your preference for spreading or piping.
• Sprinkles are optional but add a festive touch.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: Sugar cookie bars, sugar cookies, cookie bars recipe, easy dessert, vanilla frosting, soft cookie bars