Sugar Cookie Bars
Sugar cookie bars are a convenient and delicious variation of traditional sugar cookies, perfect for any occasion. With endless customization options and simple preparation, they are sure to become a favorite treat for all.
Ingredients
Sugar Cookie Bars
- ½ cup butter
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 whole egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese softened
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Sugar Cookie Frosting
- ¼ cup butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pink food coloring gel optional
- Sprinkles optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9 x 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar together until fluffy. Then, add the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cream cheese, mixing until well combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing until a thick cookie dough batter forms. Take care not to overmix.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture is set and the top is a light golden brown. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the butter, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and pink food coloring gel. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk; if it's too thin, incorporate additional powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
- Once the cookie bars have cooled, spread the frosting generously on top. Sprinkle with additional toppings if desired, and cut into 16 square bars. Enjoy!
Notes
Store any leftovers in the same baking pan or transfer them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
You can cut the frosted bars into 16 smaller squares or 9 larger squares, and feel free to shape them into rectangular bars or triangles as well.
For perfectly cut bars, refrigerate the frosted cookie bars for a few minutes before slicing.
Switch out the frosting and sprinkles to match different holidays; these treats can be made for nearly any occasion!