Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted are a delightful treat that combines the simplicity of sugar cookies with the rich creaminess of frosting. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or simply a sweet craving. With their soft texture and luscious frosting, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted

There are countless reasons why sugar cookie bars frosted have gained immense popularity. First off, they are incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers. These bars are also customizable, allowing you to experiment with different frostings or toppings. You can whip up a batch in under an hour, making them a perfect last-minute dessert. The combination of a chewy base and creamy frosting creates a delightful texture contrast. Plus, they can easily be made gluten-free by substituting the flour. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack or a dessert for a gathering, these frosted sugar cookie bars are sure to impress!

Ingredients for Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted

Gather these items:

¾ cup (1.5 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¾ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
3 cups powdered sugar

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

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper or spray with non-stick spray then set aside.
Step 2: Cream the butter and granulated sugar together, then sift in the powdered sugar and beat again until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and beat again until smooth.
Step 4: Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together in a separate bowl and whisk until well combined.
Step 5: Pour the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and beat until well combined. Then press dough together with your hands until it fully comes together.
Step 6: Press dough evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sides puff up and the top starts to crack.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and cool completely before icing. (You can speed up the cooling by popping the baked cookie into the fridge.)

Pro Tips for the Best Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted

Keep these in mind:

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Decorate with sprinkles for added flair.
Adjust frosting sweetness by varying powdered sugar amount.
For an extra touch, consider adding a dash of almond extract to the frosting for a delightful flavor boost.
Since this is a soft sugar cookie bars recipe, be careful not to overbake for the best chewy texture.

Irresistible Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted fresh from the oven on a cooling rack

Best Ways to Serve Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted

These frosted sugar cookie bars can be served in various ways. Cut them into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties. You can also top them with fresh fruits or a drizzle of chocolate for a decadent treat. For a festive touch, try using sugar cookie bars with royal icing to create beautiful designs. Serve them alongside a warm beverage for the perfect dessert experience!

How to Store and Reheat Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted

To keep your sugar cookie bars with frosting fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you need to prepare them ahead of time, these bars can be made a day in advance. For longer storage, freeze them in individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for an extra soft treat!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted

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

The secret lies in not overbaking them! Keep an eye on the bars as they bake, and remove them from the oven when the edges are slightly golden. This ensures they remain soft and chewy, perfect for a frosted sugar cookie bar dessert.

Can I make Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted ahead of time?

Absolutely! These easy frosted sugar cookie bars can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to store them properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

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

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your butter is softened properly before creaming with sugar. Also, be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the flour, as this can lead to tougher bars.

Delicious Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted with colorful sprinkles on top

Variations of Sugar Cookie Bars Frosted You Can Try

If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few variations to consider:

Try using different extracts like lemon or coconut for unique flavors.
Make gluten-free frosted sugar cookie bars by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Experiment with toppings like crushed nuts or mini chocolate chips for added texture.
For a seasonal twist, incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a cozy flavor profile.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our latest recipes, or try making caramel apple cheesecake bars for a delightful twist. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, consider our royal icing cookies recipe!