Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
If you adore classic sugar cookies but crave a simpler, softer, and more chewy treat, these Sugar Cookie Bars are your new best friend in the kitchen. They combine the beloved flavors of a traditional sugar cookie with the convenience of a bar, topped with a luscious, creamy cream cheese frosting that’s just begging to be smeared on thick. Perfectly tender, sweet, and finished with festive sprinkles, these bars are not only easy to make from scratch but also bring a joyful pop of color and warmth to any occasion. Once you’ve tried making these Sugar Cookie Bars, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that beautifully come together to create a tender, fluffy base and a dreamy frosting. Each component plays its crucial role in ensuring your Sugar Cookie Bars have the perfect texture and flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature, it adds richness and tenderness to the bars.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough, contributing to the classic sugar cookie taste.
- Egg and egg yolk: Provide structure and enhance chewiness for the perfect chewy bite.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cookie flavor.
- Almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle nutty note reminiscent of traditional sugar cookies.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dough with a tender crumb when combined with cornstarch.
- Cornstarch: Keeps the bars soft and delicate by softening the flour’s structure.
- Baking soda: Gives just the right amount of lift for a soft texture.
- Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors overall.
- Cream cheese: Combined with butter for a frosting that’s tangy, creamy, and smooth.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness to the frosting, cutting through the sweetness beautifully.
- Powdered sugar: Gives the frosting its classic sweet and fluffy texture.
- Rainbow sprinkles: Optional but highly encouraged for that cheerful, festive finish.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Bars
Step 1: Prep and Mix the Dough
Start by prepping your baking pan with parchment paper or a non-stick spray so your bars come out effortlessly. Cream the softened butter with sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which usually takes about two minutes — this is the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Then, beat in the egg and egg yolk followed by the vanilla and almond extract, making sure each addition is fully incorporated for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients provide the structure and softness that define Sugar Cookie Bars. Adding cornstarch here is a game-changer for softness, so don’t skip it. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet over low speed to avoid overworking the dough, which keeps the bars tender.
Step 3: Bake Your Bars
Press the dough evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top to ensure even baking. Pop it in the oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’re aiming for lightly golden edges with a center that still has a few moist crumbs. Trust me, don’t overbake; a little softness in the middle is what makes these bars so irresistible.
Step 4: Cool Completely Before Frosting
Patience is key. Let these bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. If you frost them while warm, the frosting will melt and slide off, and that’s a crying shame after all your hard work.
Step 5: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars cool, whip together softened butter and cream cheese until silky and smooth. Add lemon juice and vanilla extract for that tangy punch, then mix in powdered sugar slowly until you have a fluffy, dreamy frosting that you’ll want to eat by the spoonful.
Step 6: Frost and Sprinkle
Spread the frosting evenly over your cooled Sugar Cookie Bars, then sprinkle generously with rainbow sprinkles for a pop of color and fun. Cut into squares, serve, and watch these bars disappear like magic.
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Bars
Garnishes
While rainbow sprinkles are the classic finish, you can get creative here. Try sanding sugar for sparkle, edible glitter for glam, or crushed candy canes in winter for a peppermint twist. Fresh fruit like raspberries also pairs nicely if you want a hint of tartness.
Side Dishes
These bars are sweet and rich on their own, but pairing them with a simple glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa makes for a nostalgic, comforting combo. For an adult twist, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream turns these bars into a delightful dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut your Sugar Cookie Bars into bite-sized squares for easy finger food. Layer them in a pretty box or jar as a sweet gift. You can even sandwich frosting between two bars for a cookie bar sandwich that’s sure to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These bars keep beautifully in the fridge for up to one week, so you can enjoy their soft, frosted goodness across several days. Be sure to keep them covered to prevent the frosting from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
Freezing
If you want to make these Sugar Cookie Bars ahead of time, freeze the unfrosted bars wrapped tightly for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, bring them to room temperature, and then frost as usual. This is perfect for holiday prep or whenever cravings strike unexpectedly.
Reheating
To revive the bars slightly before serving (especially after refrigeration), leave them at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as the frosting may melt messily. If you prefer warm bars, just enjoy the unfrosted portion gently warmed, then add fresh frosting.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but be sure to omit the salt from the recipe as salted butter already contains salt, or else the bars may end up slightly salty.
What’s the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch helps keep the bars tender and soft by softening the texture of the flour in the dough, making these Sugar Cookie Bars perfectly chewy and delicate.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
With some substitutions like a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensuring your baking powder is gluten-free, you can adapt this recipe, but results may vary slightly in texture.
How should I store the bars if I’m transporting them?
Place the bars in a container with a tight-fitting lid, separated by parchment paper if stacking, and keep them cool to prevent melting the frosting during travel.
Can I skip the frosting?
Absolutely! These bars taste delicious plain if you prefer a less sweet treat or want to cut back on sugar, though the frosting really takes them to the next level.
Final Thoughts
These Sugar Cookie Bars are such a delightful upgrade to your baking repertoire — simple to make but ridiculously delicious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these soft, frosted bars are sure to brighten your day and warm your heart. Grab your mixing bowls and baking pan, and let yourself fall in love with Sugar Cookie Bars all over again!
