Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Sweet sugar cookie bars bring classic comfort to dessert lovers seeking simple, delightful treats. Buttery, crumbly layers with creamy frosting create a nostalgic indulgence that satisfies cravings and brings smiles to gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Baking Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 ½ cups (310 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs

Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups (360 grams) powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to a cozy 350F (175C), preparing a 9×13-inch baking vessel with a light butter coating or a protective parchment paper lining.
  2. Whip the butter and sugar in a spacious mixing bowl until they transform into a cloud-like, airy mixture. Introduce eggs and vanilla, blending thoroughly until the ingredients dance together harmoniously.
  3. In a separate vessel, delicately combine flour, baking powder, and salt through a gentle whisking motion. Gradually marry these dry ingredients into the buttery mixture, stirring with a careful hand to prevent overmixing.
  4. Tenderly transfer the dough into the prepared baking dish, using fingertips or a smooth spatula to create an even, elegant landscape across the surface.
  5. Slide the pan into the preheated oven, allowing the bars to bake for 18-20 minutes. Watch for subtle golden edges as your signal of readiness – the center should remain soft and yielding.
  6. Once removed, permit the bars to cool completely within the pan, transforming from warm, fragrant delight to a perfect, sliceable treat ready for enjoyment.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming and smoother texture, preventing dense or tough cookie bars.
  • Use parchment paper overhang for effortless removal and clean cutting of bars, making serving and cleanup a breeze.
  • Customize flavor by adding lemon zest, almond extract, or swapping vanilla for a unique twist that keeps the recipe exciting and personalized.
  • For gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, maintaining the same tender crumb and delightful taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 298
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 63mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg