Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

There’s something undeniably delightful about sugar cookies. They’re sweet, soft, and when made into bars, they become even easier to share and enjoy. This Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe is a simple and scrumptious way to indulge your sweet tooth while creating a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re throwing a party, celebrating a special day, or just want a sweet snack, these bars will be a hit. With a soft and chewy texture topped with creamy frosting, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!

Why I Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about sugar cookie bars? They’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them with your favorite colors and sprinkles. The buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them irresistible. Plus, they’re so easy to make; no rolling out dough or cutting shapes required! Just mix, bake, and frost. It’s a simple process that yields delicious results every time. Perfect for gatherings, bake sales, or just an afternoon treat, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.

What You’ll Gather

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (for frosting)
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tablespoon milk (add more if needed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
• Food dye (optional, for color)
• Sprinkles (optional, for topping)

Prep & Cook Tools

• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easy.
• Spatula: For spreading frosting smoothly.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for these bars.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise measurements.
• Cooling rack: Allows bars to cool evenly.

Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking pan with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper will make removing the bars much easier.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream 3/4 cup of softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the two large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the dough to be soft and pliable.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar until creamy. Add 1 tablespoon of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more milk until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 8: Frost the Cookie Bars

Once the cookie bars are completely cool, spread the frosting generously over the top. If you’d like, add a few drops of food dye to the frosting for a pop of color, and top with sprinkles for a festive touch!

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Butter: You can use coconut oil or any plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative of your choice.
• Powdered Sugar: You can blend granulated sugar in a blender until fine if you don’t have powdered sugar on hand.
• Milk: Any plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, works perfectly.

Cook’s Notes

• Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
• For a chewier texture, do not overbake the bars.
• These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Add flavor variations like almond extract or lemon zest for a unique twist!

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These sugar cookie bars are freezer-friendly! Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Reader Questions

Can I use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for regular flour. Make sure to check that it contains xanthan gum or add some to help with texture.

How can I make these bars more colorful for a party?

Add food coloring to the frosting or mix colorful sprinkles into the batter before baking. You can also use colored frosting to create fun designs on top!

What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch pan?

If you don’t have a 9×13 inch pan, you can use two smaller baking pans or even muffin tins to create individual servings. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I make these in advance for an event?

Absolutely! These sugar cookie bars can be made a day or two ahead of time. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Bring It Home

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s easy to make and even easier to share, this Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe is just what you need. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for bakers of any skill level. Whether you’re whipping these up for a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a sweet snack at home, they are sure to please everyone. Enjoy the process of baking and the joy of sharing these delicious bars with loved ones. Happy baking!