There is something truly delightful about a classic treat made just a little bit easier to whip up. This Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe offers all the buttery, sweet, and soft texture of traditional sugar cookies but with the convenience of baking in one pan. The luscious frosting on top brings just the right touch of creaminess and sweetness, making these bars a perfect crowd-pleaser whether for a casual snack, a holiday dessert, or an after-school treat. You’re going to love how simple the process is and how quickly these bars disappear once they hit the table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward pantry staples that combine perfectly to create a tender dough and creamy frosting. Each item plays a crucial role in delivering the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and sweetness in this Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure and that classic cookie chew.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise just enough for soft edges.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened: Adds richness and tenderness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens while contributing to a slight crunch.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and keeps the bars moist.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warm, comforting flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Creates a creamy base for the frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk): Makes the frosting smooth and spreadable.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Infuses the frosting with extra flavor.
- Food coloring (optional): Adds fun and festivity.
- Sprinkles (optional): Perfect for a playful finishing touch.
How to Make Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures that the rising agent and salt are evenly distributed through the flour, which will lead to a consistent texture and perfect rise throughout your cookie bars.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is so important for creating that tender and airy crumb in your cookie bars.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. The egg binds everything together and adds moisture, while the vanilla boosts the flavor with its sweet, aromatic notes.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Gradually add the whisked dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix here to keep those bars tender rather than tough.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Press the dough evenly into a prepared baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. This signals that your bars are perfectly baked — soft but not underdone. Let them cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
While the bars cool, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar at low speed, then pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. If you’d like, add a few drops of food coloring to tie into any occasion or theme.
Step 7: Frost the Bars
Once the bars are completely cooled, generously spread the frosting over the top. Finish with sprinkles if you want to add some cheerful color and crunch.
How to Serve Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkles or colored sugar crystals are a quick and visually appealing way to garnish these bars. They add a playful pop of color and a slight texture contrast that kids and adults both adore.
Side Dishes
Pairing these frosted sugar cookie bars with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of tea or coffee makes for an irresistible treat. Fresh berries can also add a refreshing, slightly tart contrast to the sweet richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a platter with colorful napkins for parties. Alternatively, serve slices stacked with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these frosted sugar cookie bars will stay fresh and chewy for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve their texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them completely before frosting to prevent any condensation from making the frosting runny.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature. If you prefer them slightly warm, heat individual pieces for 10-15 seconds in the microwave, but keep in mind that frosting might soften or melt.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter for this recipe?
Butter is preferred because it provides better flavor and texture, but in a pinch, margarine can be used. Just remember that it may affect the richness and tenderness of the bars slightly.
Is it necessary to use both baking soda and baking powder?
This recipe only calls for baking soda, which gives the perfect rise here. Adding baking powder isn’t needed and could change the texture of the bars.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?
Absolutely! Tossing in 1 cup of your favorite mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit can personalize this Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe.
How thick should I press the dough into the pan?
Press the dough evenly about half an inch thick for bars that are soft yet sturdy enough to hold the frosting without crumbling.
What if I don’t have heavy cream for the frosting?
You can substitute whole milk or even a bit of half-and-half. Heavy cream just makes the frosting extra smooth and creamy, but other dairy will still work well.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that hits all the right notes of buttery sweetness, tender texture, and luscious frosting without hours of work, this Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe is your new best friend. It’s perfect for baking with the family, decorating for holidays, or simply indulging whenever the craving strikes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again!
Print
Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, baked into a soft, chewy bar form and topped with creamy, smooth frosting. Perfect for serving at parties or enjoying as a sweet treat any day, they offer the familiar vanilla flavor with the convenience of bar cookies and optional vibrant decorating with food coloring and sprinkles.
Ingredients
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 well combined, ensuring the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture in the cookies.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the large egg and vanilla extract thoroughly until combined, then gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a cohesive dough forms without overmixing.
- Prepare for Baking: Press the cookie dough evenly into a prepared baking pan, spreading it out to form an even layer for consistent baking.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy using a mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud, then add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat the frosting until smooth and creamy. Add food coloring if desired to customize the appearance.
- Frost and Decorate: Once the cookie bars are fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Add sprinkles if desired for a festive finish. Slice into 24 bars and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cookie bars are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar; for a thinner consistency, add a little more heavy cream.
- Optional food coloring and sprinkles make these bars great for themed parties or holidays.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a slightly crispier edge, bake for a couple of extra minutes but watch carefully to prevent overbaking.
