Sugar cookie bars. Sounds simple enough, right? Well, let me tell you about the time I confidently set out to make a batch for my sister’s bridal shower. I mean, it’s just a bigger sugar cookie, how hard could it be? Famous last words, my friends. The first batch came out so hard, you could’ve tiled a roof with them. But after a bit of tinkering and a lot of taste-testing (the best part, honestly), I’ve perfected the art of sugar cookie bars so soft, they’ll melt in your mouth.
These bars have become my signature treat for every family gathering, and the kids love when I let them help with the frosting. It’s a recipe full of sweet memories and sweeter flavors, and I can’t wait to share it with you. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
First thing’s first, let’s talk about what you’ll need. I’m all for substitutions (learned this the hard way when I realized mid-recipe that I was out of eggs), but here’s the ideal lineup:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (trust me on this)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the frosting:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
- Food coloring, if desired
- Sprinkles for decoration (because sprinkles make everything better)
Instructions
Now, about those instructions. I’ve got you covered with this tried-and-true method:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Don’t overbake, or you’ll end up with those roof tiles I mentioned.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- While the bars are cooling, make the frosting. Beat together the butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk or cream to reach your desired consistency. If you’re feeling fancy, add a few drops of food coloring.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars and top with sprinkles. Slice into squares and serve.
Tips & Tricks
Okay, so here’s where I give you the inside scoop. First, don’t skimp on the creaming of butter and sugar—it’s what gives the bars that divine texture. And always, always let your butter soften to room temperature (a lesson I’ve learned the hard way).
When it comes to frosting, if you’re not a fan of super sweet, you can cut back on the sugar a bit. My mom always said “make it how you love it,” and she couldn’t be more right. Also, chill the bars for a few minutes before slicing; it makes for cleaner cuts.
FAQ
Got questions? I’ve got answers. Here are a few common ones:
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend. Just keep in mind that textures can vary with different blends.
Q: How do I store these sugar cookie bars?
A: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If it’s warm out, pop them in the fridge to keep the frosting from melting.
Q: Can I freeze sugar cookie bars?
A: You bet! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. It’s like a little bit of baking magic.
Conclusion
There you have it, the ultimate guide to making the softest, most delightful sugar cookie bars your taste buds will ever meet. Whether it’s a special occasion or a “just because” treat, these bars are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Now go forth and bake with confidence, my fellow sweet-tooth warriors!
Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup butter, softened (for the frosting)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (for the frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the frosting)
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream (for the frosting)
- Food coloring (for the frosting, if desired)
- Sprinkles for decoration
Directions:
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
-
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.
-
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar, then beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
-
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and press the dough into the prepared pan.
-
Bake for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden. Let the bars cool completely.
-
Make the frosting by beating together the butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or cream.
-
Spread the frosting on the cooled bars, top with sprinkles, slice, and serve.