Description
Delight in these soft and chewy Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookie Bars topped with a luscious vanilla bean frosting. Perfectly balanced with rich vanilla flavor and a buttery base, these bars make an ideal dessert or sweet snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cookie Bars:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract)
- Pinch of salt
- Sprinkles for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring you leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes, which helps in creating a tender texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla bean paste until well combined, infusing the dough with rich vanilla flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Press Dough into Pan: Evenly press the dough into the prepared baking pan, smoothing out the surface for uniform baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
- Frost the Bars: Spread the vanilla bean frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. For a festive touch, sprinkle optional sprinkles over the top.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the frosted bars for 15–20 minutes to firm up the frosting, making slicing easier. Cut into 24 squares and serve.
Notes
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to achieve a firmer texture.
- For a flavor twist, add almond extract or lemon zest to either the dough or frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
