The holiday season is a beautiful tapestry of family gatherings, laughter, and the intoxicating scent of freshly baked treats wafting through the air. Picture this: you walk into a room filled with the sweet fragrance of warm sugar cookies, each one adorned with vibrant red and green sprinkles, beckoning to be savored. That’s the magic of these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars—a delightful twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for sharing or indulging in solo!
I found myself craving something festive yet simple after a long week of holiday prep, and the beauty of these bars is that they’re incredibly easy to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll have a tray full of scrumptious cookie bars that impress without the stress. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or cozying up on the couch with loved ones, these bites of joy are guaranteed to bring smiles and merry cheer to everyone who tries them. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together and add a little sweet magic to your holiday celebrations!
Why You'll Love This Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
- These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are not only quick and easy to make but also require minimal effort, making them perfect for busy holiday preparations.
- The delightful flavor of buttery cookies combined with sweet frosting creates a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Their vibrant colors and festive sprinkles add a visual appeal that is sure to brighten up any holiday gathering.
- Plus, with enough servings to satisfy a crowd, these bars are a guaranteed hit at parties, family dinners, or just a cozy night in.
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients
Ready to create holiday magic with your baking? Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars!
For the Dough
• Sugar – adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
• Powdered sugar – contributes to the bar’s melt-in-your-mouth softness.
• Butter, softened – ensures a rich flavor and a moist crumb.
• Vanilla extract – enhances the overall sweetness and flavor profile.
• Large eggs – bind the ingredients together for a perfect structure.
• Baking powder – helps the bars rise to a lovely fluffy consistency.
• Salt – balances the sweetness and elevates the flavor.
• All-purpose flour – forms the base of your cookie bars.
• Red and green jimmy sprinkles – add a festive touch and bring joy in every bite!
For the Frosting
• Powdered sugar – sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
• Unsalted butter + 2 tablespoons, softened – creates a buttery flavor that complements the bars beautifully.
• Heavy cream (or milk) – adjusts the frosting consistency for easy spreading.
• Salt – a pinch enhances the frosting’s sweetness.
• Vanilla extract – harmonizes the flavors in the frosting.
Let this festive treat inspire you to create unforgettable memories during the holiday season with these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars!
How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
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Preheat your oven to 375°F. This helps ensure that your cookie bars will bake evenly. Don’t forget to spray a 9×13 pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking!
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Cream the sugar, powdered sugar, and softened butter in a stand mixer for about 3 minutes or until it’s light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract and eggs, blending until smooth. Make sure to scrape down the sides if needed.
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Combine the baking powder and salt into the mixture, then mix until thoroughly combined. Slowly incorporate the flour, mixing just until it’s combined. Gently fold in the sprinkles for a festive touch!
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Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared pan using a spatula or your hands. Bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake!
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Cool your cookie bars completely in the pan on a cooling rack. This allows them to set up perfectly for frosting.
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Whip the butter with the stand mixer for about 2 minutes until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract and heavy cream or milk, starting with 3 tablespoons. Adjust for thickness as needed.
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Beat the frosting on medium-high for 3-5 minutes until it’s fluffy. Stop occasionally to scrape the sides of the bowl. If using food coloring, mix it in now. Finish by beating on low for about 1 minute to eliminate any air bubbles.
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Frost the cooled cookie bars evenly using a spatula, then sprinkle the top with more festive sprinkles. Cut into 24 pieces and enjoy a slice of holiday joy!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The frosting can also be made ahead, lasting in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep it well-sealed to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to bake, spread the chilled dough in your greased pan and bake as instructed; that way, you’ll get delicious, freshly baked bars with minimal effort on busy days. Enjoy the sweet taste of the holidays without the hassle!
What to Serve with Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
Baking these delightful bars brings the spirit of the season to life, and finding the perfect pairings elevates the whole experience.
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Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety drink that complements the sweetness of the bars, making for an incredibly cozy treat. Imagine sipping on a cup while munching on the soft cookie bars, finding delicious bites of chocolate melting in your mouth.
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Peppermint Bark: The cool mint flavor balances the sweetness of the frosting, bringing a refreshing contrast. The crunchy texture of the bark adds delightful variety to the festive spread.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop on top of each bar turns your dessert into a luscious masterpiece. Its lightness offsets the richness of the frosting, creating a perfect harmony with each bite.
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Eggnog: This classic holiday drink, with its spiced and creamy allure, pairs wonderfully with the cookies. The sweetness of the eggnog enhances the festive flavors of the bars, inviting nostalgia with every sip.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh, bright assortment of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing palate cleanser. The bursts of juicy flavor can balance the sugary sweetness, making the meal feel lighter.
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Butter Pecan Ice Cream: The nutty flavor of the ice cream resonates beautifully with the buttery cookie bars. Scoop it on the side for an indulgent, creamy contrast that elevates your holiday dessert experience.
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Gingerbread Cookies: A festive addition, the spice from the gingerbread provides a delightful twist. These two treats together create a perfect holiday cookie platter, inviting a cheerful gathering atmosphere.
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Sparkling Cider: Offering a bubbly lift that’s perfect for any celebration, the crispness of sparkling cider beautifully balances the sweetness of the bars.
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Coffee: A warm cup of your favorite brew enhances the festive flavor profile, making every bite of the cookie bars even more satisfying, especially during cooler evenings.
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars and tailor them to your taste and diet!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free for perfectly chewy bars.
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Vegan: Use plant-based butter and flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water) instead of regular eggs for a delightful dairy-free treat.
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Minty Twist: Add 1 tsp of peppermint extract to the dough for a refreshing holiday flavor that will awaken your senses!
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate 1 cup of mini chocolate chips into the dough, or drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted bars for a rich finish.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that takes these bars up a notch.
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Dulce de Leche: Swirl in 1/2 cup of dulce de leche into the frosting for a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookie bars.
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Spiced Sugar: Replace half of the sugar with brown sugar and add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor profile that feels like a hug in a bite.
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Coconut Cream: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for the frosting and add shredded coconut to the bars for a tropical twist that will transport you to a sunny paradise.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: Store the frosted bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep them longer, the bars can be refrigerated for up to a week. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, place the frozen bars in the fridge overnight to thaw, then warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before frosting, ensuring every bite of your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars is delightful!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve the right creamy texture when creaming with sugars.
- A common mistake is overmixing the dough after adding flour; mix just until combined for softer bars.
- To prevent your frosting from being too thick, start with the minimal recommended cream and adjust gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
- Keep an eye on your baking time, as a slight overbake can lead to dry cookies, so set a timer for 12 minutes and check for doneness.
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
How can I ensure the sugar cookie bars come out perfectly?
Absolutely! To achieve cookie bars that are tender and soft, be careful not to overmix the dough after adding the flour. Mix just until combined. Also, keep a close eye on your baking time; even an additional minute can lead to a drier texture. Aim for a light golden edge after 12-14 minutes of baking for the best results.
What type of butter should I use?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using unsalted butter that is softened to room temperature. This helps create a delightful creamy consistency when creaming with the sugars, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth experience we all love!
How should I store the Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
You can store the frosted bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, refrigeration is an option, keeping them fresh for about a week. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking!
Can I freeze the Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the unfrosted bars to cool completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and then feel free to frost and indulge!
Are there any allergens I should consider?
Yes, if you’re baking for guests with allergies, keep in mind that this recipe contains gluten (from the all-purpose flour) and dairy (from the butter and heavy cream). Make sure to check that your sprinkles are gluten-free if necessary, or consider using alternative frosting options for those with dairy restrictions. Always inform your guests about ingredients to ensure everyone can enjoy these festive treats!
What can I do if my frosting turns out too thick?
Very! If your frosting is too thick to spread, simply add a tablespoon of milk or heavy cream to thin it out. Start with 3 tablespoons of liquid as suggested in the recipe, and gradually add more if needed until you reach spreadable consistency. This way, you can achieve that perfect, fluffy top for your cookie bars!
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13 pan with cooking spray.
- Cream the sugar, powdered sugar, and softened butter for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, blending until smooth.
- Combine the baking powder and salt, then mix until thoroughly combined. Slowly incorporate the flour and gently fold in the sprinkles.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool the cookie bars completely in the pan on a cooling rack.
- Whip the butter for 2 minutes until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, adjusting for thickness.
- Beat the frosting for 3-5 minutes until fluffy. Frost the cooled cookie bars evenly and top with more sprinkles.
- Cut into 24 pieces and enjoy!
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