How to Make Sugar Cookie Bars: A Simple Guide for Irresistible Treats

Sugar cookie bars – they’re like the cooler, less fussy cousin of the classic cut-out cookie. Just as delicious, but way easier to make! Imagine this: a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie base topped with a sweet, colorful frosting. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, from bake sales to birthday parties. And the best part? You don’t need to be a pastry pro to nail this recipe. Let’s get baking!

Gather Your Ingredients:

For the Cookie Base:

• 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)
• Sprinkles (optional)

Tools of the Trade:

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients

Let’s Get Baking!

Making the Cookie Base:

1. Preheat and prep: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will make it super easy to lift the bars out later.
2. Whisk the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is where an electric mixer really comes in handy!
4. Add the egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix!
6. Press into the pan: Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.

While the Base Bakes, Make the Frosting:

1. Beat the butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add milk and vanilla: Beat in the milk and vanilla extract until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Get creative with color: If you’re using food coloring, divide the frosting into separate bowls and tint each bowl with your desired colors.

Frosting Sugar Cookie Bars

Assembling the Bars:

1. Cool completely: Let the cookie base cool completely in the pan before frosting. This will prevent the frosting from melting.
2. Frost and decorate: Once the base is cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. You can get creative here! Use different colors, sprinkles, or even cookie cutters to create fun shapes.
3. Chill and cut: Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set. This will make cutting them much easier. Once chilled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Tips for Baking Success:

• Room temperature ingredients are key! Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This will help create a smooth, well-combined dough.
• Don’t overbake! Keep a close eye on the bars as they bake. They’re done when the edges are lightly golden brown.
• Get creative with the frosting! Add a splash of extract, such as almond or lemon, to the frosting for an extra flavor boost.

FAQs about Sugar Cookie Bars:

Can I make these bars ahead of time? Absolutely! Sugar cookie bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

My frosting is too runny! What can I do? If your frosting is too runny, simply add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I use a different type of pan? While a 9×13 inch pan is standard for this recipe, you can use a slightly smaller or larger pan. Keep in mind that this will affect the baking time.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for sugar cookie bars that anyone can make. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible treats!

Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us! Snap a photo of your beautiful creations and share them in the comments below. We’d love to see what you come up with! And for more delicious recipes and baking inspiration, be sure to explore the rest of our website. Happy baking!