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Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 77 reviews

Delicious Sugar Cookie Bars with a soft, buttery base topped with a smooth vanilla frosting and colorful sprinkles, perfect for parties or everyday treats.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Bars

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams, room temperature, 2 sticks)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
  • ½ cup brown sugar (107 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
  • ¼ teaspoon almond extract (1 gram)
  • 2 large eggs (100 grams, room temperature)
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda (3 grams)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour (300 grams)

Frosting

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (57 grams, melted, ½ stick)
  • 1½ cups powdered sugar (170 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons milk (28 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
  • Sprinkles (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal of the bars later.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: Using an electric hand mixer, cream together the room temperature unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add Flavorings and Eggs: Mix in the pure vanilla extract, almond extract, eggs, baking soda, and kosher salt until combined, ensuring a smooth mixture.
  4. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour little by little, beating lightly after each addition until just incorporated to prevent overmixing and keep the bars tender.
  5. Press Dough into Pan: Evenly press the cookie dough mixture into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon or your hands.
  6. Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the edges turn a golden brown. Once baked, remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  7. Prepare Frosting: While the bars cool, beat the melted butter and powdered sugar together until combined. Add the milk and vanilla extract and continue beating until smooth and fluffy.
  8. Remove Bars from Pan: Once cooled, gently lift the parchment paper with the bars out of the pan and place them on a flat surface for easier frosting application.
  9. Frost and Decorate: Spread the prepared frosting evenly over the cookie bars. If desired, sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top for a festive finish.
  10. Cut and Serve: Using a sharp knife, cut into 24 even squares and serve. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For best results, ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature to allow for proper creaming and incorporation.
  • To prevent cracking, do not overbake the bars; edges should be golden but the center slightly soft.
  • Use parchment paper with an overhang to easily lift the bars out of the pan for frosting and cutting.
  • Sprinkles are optional but add a fun and colorful touch, especially for celebrations.
  • Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: sugar cookie bars, easy dessert, frosted cookie bars, party treats, vanilla frosting

Find it online: https://kitchenbyclara.com/sugar-cookie-bars-recipe/