Description
These Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, offering a soft and chewy texture with a sweet, creamy frosting. Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you crave a sweet treat, these bars are simple to make and serve a crowd with 24 delicious portions.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes, which helps create a tender texture in the bars.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined to add moisture and flavor to the dough.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms with no dry spots.
- Prepare to Bake: Press the cookie dough evenly into a prepared baking pan, spreading it out to create a uniform layer for even baking.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden indicating the cookies are done. Remove from oven and cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat until smooth and spreadable. Add food coloring if desired to create festive hues.
- Frost the Bars: Once the cookie bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly on top. Decorate with sprinkles if desired. Slice into 24 bars and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cookie bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Softened butter means butter that is left at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes for easy mixing.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a vegan butter and use non-dairy milk or cream.
- To store, keep the frosted bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Feel free to personalize the frosting color and toppings to suit any occasion or holiday.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
