There’s something truly enchanting about a batch of freshly baked Sugar Cookie Bars wafting through the kitchen. The blend of buttery goodness and sweet vanilla is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a cozy afternoon spent sorting through my pantry, yearning for a sweet treat that was both easy to make and satisfying.
These bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a canvas for creativity! Whether you choose to keep them simple or adorn them with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they promise to please everyone at your table. Perfect for gatherings, family celebrations, or just a quiet evening at home, they embody the warmth and love that homemade treats bring.
Join me as we dive into a world of soft, chewy deliciousness that’s bound to become a family favorite. Ready to whip up some cookie magic? Let’s bake!
Why You'll Love This Sugar Cookie Bars
- These Sugar Cookie Bars are incredibly easy to make, taking just about 40 minutes from start to finish.
- The delightful combination of buttery flavor and sweet vanilla will leave everyone craving more.
- Versatile enough for any occasion, you can decorate them to match the theme of your gathering or keep them simple for an everyday treat.
- With their appealing visual layer of cream cheese frosting, these bars are sure to impress both family and friends.
Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to creating deliciously soft Sugar Cookie Bars!
For the Dough
• ¾ cup unsalted butter – Use softened butter for a creamy, smooth dough.
• 1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar – This adds sweetness and a lovely texture to your bars.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar – Sifted in for that extra lightness and sweetness.
• 1 large egg – Ensure it’s at room temperature for better mixing.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Vanilla enhances the sweet flavor wonderfully.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract – A touch of almond adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Essential for structure; make sure to spoon and level it.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bars rise slightly for a fluffier texture.
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda – Works with the baking powder to add that perfect lift.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates the flavors.
For the Frosting
• ½ cup unsalted butter – Softened for easy blending into the frosting.
• 4 oz cream cheese – Adds a rich, creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Reinforces the sweet flavor of your frosting.
• A pinch of salt – A small amount heightens the sweetness beautifully.
• 3 cups powdered sugar – This sweetens the frosting and gives it that perfect consistency.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Bars
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light spray with non-stick spray. This ensures easy removal and clean-up!
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Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the sifted powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
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Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the creamed mixture. Beat until everything blends beautifully and there are no lumps.
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Sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Whisk them together until fully combined to ensure the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
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Combine the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Use your hands to press the dough together until it forms a cohesive ball.
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Evenly press the dough into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly puffed and the top begins to crack—golden brown goodness awaits!
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Cool the cookie bars completely in the baking dish. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the fridge for a quicker chill before icing.
Optional: Sprinkle with colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sugar Cookie Bars are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your life a little sweeter and far more efficient! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you prefer, once baked and cooled, the bars can be stored without frosting in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. To finish, frost your cookie bars just before serving with your cream cheese frosting for that fresh, delectable taste. This not only saves time but ensures they’re just as delicious when it’s time to enjoy them!
Sugar Cookie Bars Variations
Unleash your creativity and make these Sugar Cookie Bars truly your own with some delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version. Just make sure to check the blend’s measurements for best results!
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Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a melty, chocolatey surprise in every bite. This sweet addition creates a lovely balance of flavors!
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Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a bright, citrusy kick that will lift the sweetness to new heights. It’s like sunshine in your mouth!
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the mix for a delightful crunch and added richness. This twist introduces an earthiness that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Dairy-Free: Swap the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative, and use a dairy-free cream cheese in the frosting. You’ll still enjoy creamy goodness without the dairy!
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Sprinkle Topped: After frosting, generously sprinkle your favorite color sprinkles over the top for an eye-catching and festive finish. They’ll make your bars celebration-ready in no time!
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Spiced Delight: Introduce a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour mix for a warm, spiced version that’s perfect for fall gatherings or cozy winter nights.
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Coffee Infusion: Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the dough for a mocha-inspired flavor that pairs superbly with the sweet cream cheese frosting. Perfect for coffee lovers!
Storage Tips for Sugar Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: Store the cooled Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious!
Fridge: If you’d like to extend their shelf life, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just make sure they’re cooled completely before wrapping.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars cut or whole, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If desired, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This softens them just like fresh out of the oven!
What to Serve with Sugar Cookie Bars?
Imagine a warm, inviting kitchen where sweet laughter and delightful aromas mingle, making any gathering memorable.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of freshness from seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the bars, providing a lovely contrast in flavors. Think juicy strawberries, tart blueberries, and zesty kiwi for a colorful touch.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Soft, creamy ice cream melting atop warm sugar cookie bars creates a blissful experience. The combination of hot and cold will make your taste buds dance with joy.
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Hot Cocoa: A cozy cup of rich hot chocolate pairs perfectly for a delightful treat. Topped with whipped cream, it transforms the moment into something special and nostalgic.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate elevates these bars, adding a decadent finish. This little touch transforms ordinary treats into something truly captivating.
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Coffee or Tea: A comforting warm drink enhances the flavors of your dessert, making an afternoon break feel indulgent. Choose a robust coffee blend or a relaxing herbal tea to complement your sweets.
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Lemonade: The sweet and tangy citrus flavor of freshly squeezed lemonade adds a refreshing twist. It balances the sweetness of the cookie bars with a delightful zing.
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Buttercream Frosted Cupcakes: For those who love sweets, these delightful treats make for a perfect pairing. Their subtle sweetness harmonizes with the bars while providing a playful variety of textures.
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Sparkling Water: Keep it light and refreshing with a bubbly drink! The effervescence of sparkling water cleanses the palate, allowing each bite of cookie bar to shine.
Let your creativity guide you as you explore these lovely pairings, creating memorable moments around your kitchen table!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Sugar Cookie Bars, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming, which results in a light and fluffy texture.
- Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour, as this can lead to tough bars instead of soft ones.
- Press the dough firmly into the baking dish to create an even surface for baking, which helps achieve consistent baking and prevents uneven edges.
- Keep a close eye on the baking time; you’ll know they’re ready when the edges start to puff and the top begins to crack.
Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my butter is at the right temperature?
Absolutely! Your butter should be softened but not melted; it should yield to gentle pressure when pressed with a finger and still hold its shape. This usually takes about 30 minutes at room temperature. Perfectly softened butter will help create that fluffy texture when creamed with sugar.
How should I store leftover Sugar Cookie Bars?
To keep your Sugar Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to extend their freshness, wrap them well and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Just make sure they are completely cooled before storing!
Can I freeze Sugar Cookie Bars?
Yes, you can! If you want to store them longer, I recommend cutting the bars into squares or leaving them whole. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving. This method keeps them moist and delicious!
What should I do if my Sugar Cookie Bars are too dry?
Very! If your bars turn out dry, it’s usually due to overbaking or too much flour. To prevent this, keep an eye on the baking time and check for doneness when the edges puff up and the top cracks. If you’ve already baked them, try serving them with ice cream or whipped cream to add moisture and creaminess!
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe contains dairy and gluten. If you or someone at your gathering has allergies, consider substituting the butter with a dairy-free alternative or using gluten-free flour instead. Always check labels of pre-packaged ingredients like vanilla extract and cream cheese if necessary, especially for those with specific dietary restrictions.
How can I make my frosting more flavorful?
The more the merrier! To enhance the flavor of your cream cheese frosting, try adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or some zest. This brightens the taste and creates a beautiful contrast with sweetness. You can also experiment by adding different extracts, like almond or coconut, for a twist on the classic vanilla flavor!
Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light spray with non-stick spray.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the sifted powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
- Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the creamed mixture. Beat until everything blends beautifully.
- Sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Whisk them together until fully combined.
- Combine the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Use your hands to press the dough together.
- Evenly press the dough into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly puffed.
- Cool the cookie bars completely in the baking dish.
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