Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. This recipe features a soft sugar cookie dough that is baked into buttery, chewy squares and frosted with dreamy buttercream frosting. Topped with colorful Christmas sprinkles, these bars are not only visually appealing but also deliciously satisfying. Let’s dive into the world of easy Christmas cookie bars and discover why they should be a staple in your holiday baking!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are loved for many reasons. Firstly, they are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for busy holiday bakers. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Secondly, they are soft and chewy, providing a delightful texture that melts in your mouth. Thirdly, the frosting adds a creamy sweetness that balances the flavors beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking for a sweet treat, these bars are sure to impress. Plus, they can be customized with various sprinkles and toppings, making them the best sugar cookie bars for the holidays! Check out more holiday recipes for inspiration!

Ingredients for Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Gather these items:

1/2 cup butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 1/3 cups all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter (softened)
2 cups powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Christmas sprinkles (for garnish)

How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Neatly line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil then grease with a non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Add softened butter and sugar to a bowl and mix with a handheld or stand mixer for 2-3 minutes or until fluffy. Add in the egg then sour cream and beat until combined. Add flour, baking powder and salt, and fold it all together until just combined. Try not to over mix.
Step 3: Spoon dough into the baking pan, and press it with your hand to even out the dough into the bottom of the pan. Place in the oven then bake for 15 minutes, or until set. You’ll know it’s ready when the middle is just starting to look cooked, and the sides are lightly brown. Take the pan out of the oven and allow it to cool completely.
Step 4: While cooling, make the frosting. To a bowl, add the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat this together with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the milk and vanilla and continue to whip until soft and fluffy.
Step 5: Once the bars have cooled completely, frost, then add sprinkles to the top. Cut into even squares, then serve. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Keep these in mind:

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Avoid overmixing the dough to keep the bars soft and chewy.
Don’t skip the cooling step before frosting; it helps the frosting set better.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

These bars are perfect for serving at holiday gatherings. Cut them into festive shapes or squares and arrange them on a platter for a beautiful display. Pair them with a cup of hot cocoa or eggnog for a cozy holiday treat! For an extra touch, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars: The Ultimate Holiday Treat - Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

To store your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold! These bars are also great for meal prep during the busy holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?

The secret lies in not overmixing the dough and allowing the bars to cool completely before frosting. This ensures a soft texture and beautifully set frosting!

Can I make Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the bars up to a week in advance and frost them right before serving. This makes them a convenient option for holiday parties.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and always preheat your oven. Following the simple sugar cookie bar instructions closely will yield the best results!

Variations of Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars. You can make gluten-free versions by substituting with gluten-free flour or try a vegan sugar cookie bar recipe that uses plant-based butter and milk. Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for a delightful twist, or experiment with different flavors of frosting for unique Christmas cookie bar ideas! Explore more variations to keep your baking exciting!