Description
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive twist on classic sugar cookies, baked into a soft, chewy bar and topped with creamy vanilla frosting and colorful holiday sprinkles. Perfect for gift-giving or holiday parties, they combine a buttery cookie base with a sweet, smooth frosting for a delightful seasonal treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Holiday sprinkles for decorating
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- More holiday sprinkles for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cookie bars.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, resulting in a tender texture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate. Stir in the vanilla extract to add flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Spread dough in pan: Evenly spread the cookie dough into the prepared 9×13 inch pan, smoothing the surface for even baking.
- Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- Make frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. If desired, add food coloring to match your holiday theme.
- Frost and decorate: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. Top with holiday sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve. These bars are perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or gifting.
Notes
- Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to ensure the frosting doesn’t melt.
- You can customize food coloring in the frosting to suit different holiday themes.
- Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and removal of bars.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
