Description
These Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars combine the classic flavors of sugar cookies with a simple, creamy frosting. Perfect for celebrations or casual treats, these bars are soft, buttery, and topped with a sweet, smooth frosting that can be customized with food coloring and sprinkles for a festive touch.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Sugar Cookie Bars
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for a tender texture.
- Mix in Egg and Vanilla: Add the large egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, beating until fully incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms, taking care not to overmix.
- Bake the Bars: Press the cookie dough evenly into a prepared baking pan (typically a 9×13 inch). Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar on low speed, then mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Add food coloring if desired and stir to evenly combine.
- Frost the Bars: Once the cookie bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Decorate with sprinkles if desired. Allow the frosting to set before cutting into bars and serving.
Notes
- Make sure the butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Do not overbake the bars; removing them as soon as edges turn golden ensures a soft center.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and heavy cream with vegan alternatives.
- The frosting can be tinted with gel food coloring for different occasions.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
