The Dreamiest Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe Ever

Sweet memories dance through kitchens when frosted sugar cookie bars emerge from the oven, filling rooms with nostalgic comfort.

Childhood whispers echo in every delectable square, promising pure delight.

Soft, pillowy textures combine with rich buttercream in ways that spark instant joy.

Minimal ingredients create maximum happiness across generations of dessert lovers.

Baking becomes simple magic with this straightforward recipe that welcomes both novice and experienced hands.

Layers of buttery sweetness await you, promising a treat that connects heart and plate.

Let’s uncover the secret to creating these irresistible bars that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Storing Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars for Freshness

• Store frosted bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Layer bars between parchment paper 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.
• Keep unfrosted bars in a sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Place a piece of bread inside to maintain moisture.
• Warm individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, let bars sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

• Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit 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 light golden edges and a slightly firm center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

• Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! Baked and frosted bars can be stored at room temperature for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

• What if I don't have almond extract?

No problem. Simply skip it or replace with additional vanilla extract for similar depth of flavor.

Why Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Are a Crowd-Pleaser

• Whip Up Quickly: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these sugar cookie bars a breeze to prepare for any home baker.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Versatile recipe perfect for potlucks, birthdays, school events, and family gatherings with its universally loved sweet flavor.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the frosting with different colors, sprinkles, and extract variations to match any celebration or personal preference.
• Beginner Baker Friendly: Foolproof recipe requires minimal baking skills, making it an excellent choice for those just starting their baking journey.

What You’ll Need for Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for creating a tender and soft cookie bar texture.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cookie bars rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookie bars.

• Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie bars' golden color.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bar's structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a classic, warm flavor to the cookie bars.
• Almond Extract: Optional ingredient that provides a subtle nutty flavor.

• Powdered Sugar, Butter: Create a smooth, creamy frosting base with rich flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds delicious flavor to the frosting.
• Cream or Milk: Helps achieve the right frosting consistency.
• Food Coloring: Optional ingredient for customizing the frosting color.
• Sprinkles: Decorative topping that adds fun and color to the cookie bars.

How to Bake Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Like a Pro

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper covers the bottom and sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt

Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly combined with no lumps.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream butter and sugar.

Beat until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color, which takes about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Almond extract (optional)

Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended and create a smooth consistency.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.

Stir or mix on low speed until just combined.

Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan.

Use a spatula to create a smooth, level surface.

Bake for 15-18 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.

Step 7: Cool the Bars

Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely on a wire rack.

This prevents soggy bottoms and helps the bars set properly.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

Beat softened butter until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until light and fluffy.

Step 9: Finish Frosting

Stir in vanilla extract and a splash of cream or milk.

Mix until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.

Add food coloring if desired.

Step 10: Decorate and Serve

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.

Sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for extra fun.

Cut into squares and enjoy your homemade treat!

Expert Tips for Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Perfection

• Ensure butter is at room temperature and beat until pale and fluffy for the most tender, melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookie bars.
• Watch closely during the last few minutes of baking; bars should be just golden around edges to maintain a soft, chewy texture.
• Use eggs and butter at room temperature to help ingredients blend smoothly and create a more consistent cookie bar batter.
• Experiment with different extract variations like peppermint, orange, or coconut to create unique flavor profiles for your sugar cookie bars.
• Use parchment paper with slight overhang to easily lift and remove bars from the pan without breaking or crumbling.

Creative Twists to Try on Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

• Gluten-Free Delight: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend flour for celiac-friendly bars.
• Vegan Wonder: Swap butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and create plant-based frosting with vegan butter alternatives.
• Lemon Zinger: Add lemon zest to the cookie base and replace vanilla extract with fresh lemon juice for a citrusy flavor profile.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of regular sugar, and create a lighter cream cheese frosting with reduced sugar content.

Serving Ideas to Enjoy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

• Party Perfect Plating: Arrange these colorful cookie bars on a festive cake stand for a stunning dessert table centerpiece.
• Sweet Gifting Idea: Package individual bars in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbons for charming homemade gifts that friends will adore.
• Game Day Delight: Cut bars into fun football or team shape designs using cookie cutters, then decorate with team-colored sprinkles for sports celebrations.
• Dessert Bar Magic: Create a DIY dessert station where guests can add their own sprinkle toppings, allowing personalized decorating fun at parties.

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 43 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sweet frosted sugar cookie bars bring classic bakery comfort to home kitchens. Buttery layers of delicate cookie topped with creamy frosting create simple dessert magic you’ll want to share with friends and family.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs

Leavening and Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt

Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage.
2. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to eliminate any potential lumps.
3. Using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until the mixture becomes airy and pale, creating a fluffy texture.
4. Incorporate eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the butter mixture, blending until fully integrated.
5. Slowly fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to create a smooth, consistent dough.
6. Transfer the dough into the prepared pan, carefully spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, watching for a delicate golden hue across the surface, indicating perfect doneness.
8. Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, which prevents frosting from melting.
9. For frosting, whip butter until silky and soft, gradually incorporating powdered sugar for a creamy consistency.
10. Add vanilla extract and cream, mixing until the frosting reaches a spreadable, velvety texture.
11. Optional: Introduce food coloring for a personalized touch, blending until color is uniform.
12. Generously spread frosting across the cooled cookie base, creating an even layer.
13. Sprinkle decorative toppings over the frosted surface for added visual appeal and texture.
14. Once set, slice into neat squares and serve at room temperature.

Notes

• Adjust extract flavors by swapping almond extract with coconut or lemon extract for a unique twist.
• Ensure butter is at room temperature for smoother creaming and better cookie bar texture.
• Use gel food coloring for more vibrant frosting without changing the consistency.
• Chill the bars before cutting for cleaner, more precise square shapes and easier serving.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 11 g
• Sodium: 80 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg