Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Indulge in the sweetness of Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars—soft, chewy, and topped with a creamy frosting. These bars are perfect for any celebration or just as a delightful treat. Easy to make and even easier to share, this recipe will walk you through every step. Let’s get started!

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What are “Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars”?

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, transforming them into a convenient bar format. With a soft, buttery base and a luscious frosting on top, these bars are perfect for parties, holidays, or just as a sweet snack. They’re simple to prepare and can be customized with various toppings or colors.

Ingredients List for Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

For the Cookie Base:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)
• Sprinkles for decoration (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream for the frosting.
• Flavor Variations: Add almond extract to the dough for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butters and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Spread in Pan: Pour the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
9. Prepare the Frosting: While the bars cool, make the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream, and mix until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract. If using, add food coloring to achieve your desired shade.
10. Frost the Bars: Once the cookie bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
11. Decorate: Sprinkle with your favorite toppings, such as sprinkles, if desired.
12. Cut and Serve: Once decorated, cut into squares or rectangles and serve!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bars; they should be soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
• Not Cooling Completely: Make sure the bars are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients to ensure the right texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

• Serving Temperature: These bars can be enjoyed at room temperature, making them perfect for parties and gatherings.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside a glass of milk, coffee, or tea for a delightful treat.

Presentation Ideas for Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

• Plating: Serve on a colorful platter with a mix of sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Individual Servings: Place each bar in a cupcake liner for a charming presentation at events.
• Garnishing: Top with fresh fruit or edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe Tips

• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before spreading in the pan.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars?
A: Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Frost after thawing for the best results.

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Yes, you can use margarine, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Q: How can I make the frosting more colorful?
A: Add more food coloring gradually until you achieve the desired shade, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Q: Can I add flavors to the frosting?
A: Absolutely! You can add flavors like almond, lemon, or even cocoa powder for a chocolate frosting.

Conclusion

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are a deliciously sweet and versatile dessert that everyone will love. With a simple recipe and endless possibilities for customization, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Try making them today, and enjoy the delightful taste and texture that will surely become a family favorite!

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