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Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

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4.1 from 11 reviews

Deliciously soft and chewy Sugar Cookie Bars topped with creamy vanilla frosting and optional sprinkles. These bars combine the classic flavors of sugar cookies with an easy bar form, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat anytime.

Ingredients

Cookie Bars

  • 3/4 cup salted butter, softened to cool room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (optional; but delicious)
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Frosting

  • 6 tablespoons salted butter, softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons milk or cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F to prepare for baking the sugar cookie bars.
  2. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly for 1-2 minutes. Stir in the lemon zest if using. Then add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined to form the dough.
  3. Prepare Baking Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper and grease lightly. Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the pan to create a uniform layer.
  4. Bake the Bars: Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 10-13 minutes. Be careful not to overbake; the bars should have very little color on the edges and be just barely set in the middle. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
  5. Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. If the mixture is too thick or has trouble coming together, add a drop or two of milk or cream. Stir in the vanilla extract, milk or cream, and any desired food coloring until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Frost the Bars: Once the cookie bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Optionally, decorate with sprinkles for added color and texture. Cut into 24 bars and serve.

Notes

  • Do not overbake the bars; they should be barely set and pale for the best soft texture.
  • Fresh lemon zest adds a bright, citrus note, but it’s optional.
  • Ensure the bars are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better texture.
  • Sprinkles add a festive touch but can be omitted for a simpler look.
  • The frosting can be tinted with food coloring if desired.

Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/sugar-cookie-bars-recipe/