Description
Delight in these Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars, a perfect combination of soft, buttery cookie base topped with creamy vanilla frosting. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it ideal for any occasion from casual snacks to festive celebrations. With optional sprinkles and food coloring, you can customize the frosting to suit your style or party theme.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the large egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated. Gradually add the dry flour mixture, mixing just until a dough forms.
- Prepare for Baking: Press the cookie dough evenly into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan to form a smooth surface.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar on low speed to avoid dust, then add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until smooth and fluffy. Add food coloring if desired.
- Frost the Bars: Once the cookie bars have cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Decorate with sprinkles if desired. Cut into 24 bars and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cookie bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Use parchment paper for easier removal and clean-up.
- For a milk alternative, substitute heavy cream with whole milk, but frosting may be slightly less rich.
- Customize the frosting with food coloring to match any theme or occasion.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
