Irresistibly Chewy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Sweet memories flood back when I bite into these delectable frosted sugar cookie bars that bring childhood comfort right to my plate.

Soft, pillowy edges mingle with creamy vanilla frosting in a dessert that promises pure delight.

Grandma’s kitchen whispers echo through each carefully crafted square of sugary goodness.

Baking these treats feels like wrapping yourself in a warm, nostalgic embrace that celebrates simple pleasures.

My secret technique ensures perfectly golden edges with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center that promises to impress everyone at the gathering.

Each bite delivers a symphony of sweetness that connects generations through a classic, beloved recipe.

Jump into your kitchen and create magic that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Ideas

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the mix contains xanthan gum for proper texture and binding.
• Vegan Version: Swap butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and create dairy-free frosting using vegan butter and plant-based milk alternatives.
• Chocolate Lover's Option: Incorporate cocoa powder into the base dough and add chocolate chips for extra richness, then top with chocolate-flavored frosting.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Substitute regular sugar with coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener, and use a lighter cream cheese frosting to reduce overall sugar content.

FAQs

• Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to prevent the bars from becoming too salty.

• How do I know when the cookie bars are perfectly baked?

Look for lightly golden edges and a set center. The bars should be slightly firm when touched but not hard.

• Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the bars up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature before frosting.

• What type of sprinkles work best for topping?

Any type of sprinkles will work, but classic rainbow jimmies or nonpareils add a fun, colorful touch to the frosted bars.

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Make Snacking Irresistibly Fun

Quick Family Dessert: Whip up these sugar cookie bars in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy parents wanting a sweet treat without complicated steps.

Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Customize frosting colors for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions, making these bars a flexible dessert that appeals to all ages.

Beginner-Friendly Baking: No advanced skills needed – simple ingredients and straightforward mixing process ensure success even for novice bakers looking to create delicious homemade treats.

Convenient Make-Ahead Option: Prepare bars in advance, store at room temperature, and enjoy for several days, ideal for meal planning or unexpected sweet cravings.

Sugar Cookie Bar Combination

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cookie bar, providing structure and texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a soft, moist texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.

• Baking Powder: Helps the cookie bars rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and classic sweet flavor to the cookie bars.

• Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, creamy frosting base.
• Heavy Cream: Helps achieve the right frosting consistency and adds richness.
• Food Coloring: Optional way to add vibrant colors to the frosting.
• Sprinkles: Optional decorative topping for extra fun and festive look.

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Method

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, making sure the paper covers the bottom and sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create Creamy Butter Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and looks like soft clouds.

Use an electric mixer for the smoothest results.

Step 3: Add Moisture and Flavor

Introduce eggs and vanilla to the butter mixture.

Whisk everything together until completely combined and looking silky smooth.

Step 4: Blend Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt

Slowly fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to create a consistent dough.

Step 5: Prepare the Pan

Spread the cookie dough evenly across the prepared pan.

Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, level surface.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges turn a delicate golden brown.

The center should look set but not too firm.

Step 7: Cool Down

Remove from the oven and let the cookie bars cool completely.

Patience is key for the perfect texture.

Step 8: Whip Up Magical Frosting

• Softened butter
• Powdered sugar
• Heavy cream

Mix until the frosting becomes smooth and fluffy.

Add food coloring if you want a pop of color.

Step 9: Decorate with Delight

Once the bars are totally cool, spread the frosting evenly across the top.

Sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for extra fun and texture.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Cut into square bars and watch them disappear!

These treats are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet family dessert.

Frosting And Texture Hacks From Cookie Bar Pros

• Let butter sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before creaming to ensure a fluffy, light texture that blends perfectly with sugar.
• Use parchment paper with overhanging edges for easy removal and clean cutting of cookie bars without breaking.
• Add heavy cream gradually to achieve the perfect spreadable frosting, preventing it from becoming too runny or too thick.
• Use gel food coloring for vibrant, concentrated colors that won't thin out the frosting's texture.
• Choose seasonal or themed sprinkles to make these cookie bars festive for any celebration or holiday.

Sugar Cookie Bars With Frosting Storage Directions

• Store frosted sugar cookie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Wrap uncut bars tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Warm individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a soft, fresh-from-the-oven texture. Avoid overheating to maintain the cookie's moisture.
• Let refrigerated bars sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and enhance the flavor.

What Goes Well With Sugar Cookie Bars

• Sip Sweet Milk Companion: Cold whole milk perfectly balances the sugary frosted bars, cutting through the richness and providing a creamy refresh with each delightful bite.
• Brew Festive Coffee Match: Warm vanilla latte or hazelnut coffee creates a complementary flavor profile that enhances the sweetness of the sugar cookie bars while adding depth to the dessert experience.
• Celebrate with Sparkling Beverage: Champagne or prosecco offers an elegant twist, bringing effervescence and lightness that contrasts wonderfully with the dense, buttery cookie texture.
• Seasonal Pairing Delight: Chilled apple cider during fall or fresh strawberry smoothie in summer can elevate these cookie bars, introducing fruity undertones that brighten the dessert's classic sweetness.

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 16 1x

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Description

Sweet memories come alive with Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars, blending nostalgic childhood flavors into one irresistible dessert. Creamy vanilla frosting and buttery cookie base invite you to savor each delightful, sprinkle-topped square.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Leavening and Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Frosting and Decorations:

• 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
• Food coloring (optional)
• Sprinkles (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F and positioning a parchment paper liner inside a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Using an electric mixer, whip butter and sugar together until achieving a soft, airy texture with pronounced volume.
3. Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, blending until thoroughly integrated.
4. Sift together dry ingredients – flour, baking powder, and salt – then gradually fold into the wet mixture, creating a cohesive dough.
5. Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared pan, carefully spreading it into an even, smooth layer using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
6. Position the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, watching for delicate golden edges as an indicator of doneness.
7. Remove from oven and allow the cookie base to cool completely at room temperature, which ensures proper frosting consistency.
8. Craft the frosting by whisking butter and powdered sugar, gradually introducing heavy cream until achieving a silky, spreadable consistency.
9. Optional: Tint the frosting with food coloring for visual appeal.
10. Once the cookie base has reached room temperature, generously apply the frosting across the entire surface.
11. Embellish the frosted surface with decorative sprinkles for a festive touch.
12. Slice into rectangular bars and serve immediately or store for later enjoyment.

Notes

• Chill the dough briefly before spreading in the pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
• Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing and better texture in the cookie base.
• Customize frosting colors and sprinkles for seasonal celebrations or themed parties.
• For gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with a reliable gluten-free flour blend and add xanthan gum for binding.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 16
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 100 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg