Sugar Cookie Bars
Soft, buttery sugar cookie bars topped with frosting, perfect for any occasion and sure to bring joy to your family.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Substitute with margarine for dairy-free.
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar Can reduce to 1 1/4 cups for less sweetness.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature Help bind and tenderize.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Try almond extract for a twist.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Swap 1 cup with whole wheat pastry flour for a heartier bite.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Provides gentle lift.
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda For balanced rise.
- 0.5 teaspoon fine salt Enhances sweetness and rounds flavor.
For the Frosting
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2.5 to 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or cream Use dairy-free milk as needed.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles or finishing sugar for decoration Optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
Baking
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Frosting
- For the frosting, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar, adding milk a teaspoon at a time until you reach spreading consistency. Stir in the vanilla.
- Spread evenly over cooled bars and add sprinkles if desired.
Serving
- Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
These bars can be decorated for special occasions or kept simple for everyday enjoyment. Keep stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.