Description
These Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful and simple treat perfect for any occasion. Soft, buttery sugar cookie bars topped with a creamy vanilla frosting that can be customized with your favorite colors and sprinkles. Ideal for parties, holidays, or any time you crave a classic sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cookie Bars:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the batter appears smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
- Press Dough into Pan: Evenly press the dough into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out with your hands or a spatula for an even thickness.
- Bake the Cookie Bars: Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown and the center is set but not browned. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Add powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract, then beat until fluffy. Add extra milk a little at a time if necessary to reach a spreadable consistency.
- Decorate the Bars: If desired, tint the frosting with food coloring. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars and sprinkle with sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Serve and Store: Cut into 24 squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend freshness.
Notes
- Customize frosting colors and sprinkles to suit holidays or parties for a personalized touch.
- Ensure cookie bars are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to keep longer.
- For softer bars, slightly underbake and cool in the pan before frosting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
