Sugar cookie bars are a delightful treat that combines the soft, chewy texture of traditional sugar cookies with the convenience of a bar. These bars are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or simply a day that needs a little extra sweetness. Made with simple ingredients and topped with a luscious buttercream frosting, these sugar cookie bars are not only easy to make but also impossible to resist.
What Are Sugar Cookie Bars?
Sugar cookie bars are a twist on the classic sugar cookie, transforming the familiar dough into a sheet cake-style dessert. The dough is spread in a baking pan and baked into a thick, chewy bar, often frosted for extra flavor. They are typically cut into squares or rectangles, making them easy to serve at gatherings. This format is perfect for those who love the taste of sugar cookies but prefer a simpler, quicker method of preparation.
Why Choose Sugar Cookie Bars Over Regular Sugar Cookies?
- Quick and Easy: Unlike traditional sugar cookies, which require individual shaping and rolling, sugar cookie bars are a breeze to make. Simply spread the dough in a pan and bake.
- Uniform Pieces: Every piece of a sugar cookie bar has the same soft, chewy texture—no worries about uneven baking or undercooked centers.
- Versatile: You can easily add your favorite toppings, such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel. The bars are also great for customizing flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making these sugar cookie bars requires only a handful of basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Sugar Cookie Bars:
- 225g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 300g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
- 320g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- Granulated sugar for sprinkling on top (optional)
For the American Buttercream Frosting:
- 170g unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 380g powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp cream or milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- Gel food coloring (optional, for tinting)
- Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Sugar Cookie Bars
Making sugar cookie bars is straightforward, and the best part is how quickly they come together. Here’s a simple guide to help you create these delicious bars from scratch.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven heats, grease and line a 9×13-inch (20x30cm) baking pan with parchment paper. The parchment paper will help you lift the bars out of the pan after baking, making them easier to cut and serve. If you don’t have parchment paper, greasing the pan with butter or oil works just fine.
Step 2: Make the Sugar Cookie Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, salt, and baking soda in a separate bowl. Slowly add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture.
- Spread the Dough: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer using a spatula. Press it down gently to make sure it fills the entire pan.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
Bake the sugar cookie bars in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. The bars should be lightly golden on top, and the center should be set. You can check for doneness by gently pressing the center of the bars—if they spring back, they’re done. Once they’re ready, remove them from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting
While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, beat the butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about a cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the cream or milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. If you want to add color, this is the time to add gel food coloring.
Once the frosting is ready, beat it on low speed for 2-3 minutes to eliminate air bubbles and achieve a smooth, glossy finish
How to Frost Sugar Cookie Bars
Frosting sugar cookie bars is an opportunity to get creative. You can either spread a simple layer of frosting across the top or get fancy with designs and decorations. Here’s how to frost your sugar cookie bars like a pro:
Step 1: Chill the Bars Slightly
Once the bars have completely cooled to room temperature, chill them in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to apply the frosting and helps prevent the frosting from melting into the bars. You can also leave the bars at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to allow them to set.
Step 2: Frost the Bars
Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread a thick layer of frosting over the cooled bars. Start in the center and work your way to the edges. Be gentle to avoid pulling up any of the cookie dough from the bars.
If you prefer, you can leave some bars without frosting and sprinkle the top with a little granulated sugar for a classic touch.
Step 3: Add Decorations
Here’s where you can really get creative! You can top your frosted sugar cookie bars with a variety of decorations, such as:
- Sprinkles: Colorful sprinkles add a festive touch.
- Edible glitter: If you’re looking to make them sparkle, edible glitter is a fun option.
- Chocolate chips: For an extra bit of sweetness, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips on top.
- Candy: Small candy pieces or crushed candies can make for a fun topping.
Let your imagination run wild!
Step 4: Cleanly Cut the Bars
For perfectly clean and even cuts, follow these tricks:
- Chill before cutting: After frosting, place the bars in the fridge again for a few minutes to allow the frosting to firm up. This will make it easier to cut clean pieces without disturbing the frosting.
- Use a ruler for even cuts: To ensure your cookie bars are uniformly cut, use a ruler to measure equal sections before cutting. This ensures a more professional look.
- Sharp knife is key: Use a sharp chef’s knife to cut through the bars cleanly. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between each cut to keep the edges sharp and prevent the frosting from sticking.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Once you’ve cut the bars into squares or rectangles, they’re ready to serve! Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a batch to a gathering, or simply enjoying a treat at home, these sugar cookie bars are guaranteed to be a hit.
Tips for Making the Best Sugar Cookie Bars
To ensure your sugar cookie bars turn out perfectly every time, here are some useful tips to follow:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before you begin. This helps them mix better and creates a smoother dough.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until combined. Overmixing can result in tough bars.
- Pan Size Matters: The standard 9×13-inch pan works well for this recipe, but if you prefer thicker bars, you can use an 8×8-inch pan. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. They should be golden brown on the edges but still soft in the center. You can also perform the “toothpick test”—insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, the bars are done.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavorings by adding lemon zest, almond extract, or even cinnamon to the dough. If you’re a fan of chocolate, try adding mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the batter.
Making Sugar Cookie Bars Ahead of Time
These sugar cookie bars are perfect for making in advance, especially if you need to prepare for an event. Here’s how you can make them ahead:
- Baked Bars: After baking, let the bars cool completely. You can store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If you want them to stay fresh for longer, refrigerate them.
- Unfrosted Bars: You can also bake the bars without frosting them, which makes them easier to store and freeze. Once the bars are baked and cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Frost before serving.
- Frosted Bars: If you’re planning to frost the bars ahead of time, be sure the frosting has completely set before storing them. Frosted bars should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Sugar Cookie Bars
Even though sugar cookie bars are a simple treat to make, there are a few common pitfalls that can ruin your perfect batch. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
1. Overmixing the Dough
Overmixing the dough can lead to tough, dry bars. Once the dry ingredients are added to the wet ingredients, mix until everything is just combined. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can make your sugar cookie bars dense and less chewy.
2. Not Properly Measuring Ingredients
Baking is all about precision, and incorrect measurements can significantly affect the texture and taste of your cookie bars. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially when measuring flour and sugar. If you don’t have a scale, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
3. Not Chilling the Dough Before Baking
While chilling isn’t always necessary for traditional sugar cookies, it’s essential for sugar cookie bars. Chilling the dough allows the butter to firm up and results in a chewier texture. It also helps prevent spreading, ensuring that the bars maintain their shape.
4. Using the Wrong Pan Size
Using the wrong pan size can alter the texture and baking time of your cookie bars. If your pan is too small, the dough will be thicker and may require a longer baking time. On the other hand, if the pan is too large, the dough will spread too thin and could bake too quickly. Stick to a 9×13-inch pan for the best results.
5. Frosting Before the Bars Are Cool
If you frost your bars while they’re still warm, the frosting will melt and slide off. Always make sure your cookie bars have completely cooled before applying the frosting.
Customizing Your Sugar Cookie Bars
Sugar cookie bars are incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different flavors, toppings, and frostings. Here are a few ideas to customize your bars:
1. Flavor Variations
- Citrus: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy kick.
- Almond: Swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract for a slightly nutty flavor.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor. This is especially good for holiday versions of sugar cookie bars.
2. Frosting Variations
- Cream Cheese Frosting: If you prefer a tangy frosting, swap the buttercream for cream cheese frosting. It’s smooth, tangy, and perfectly complements the sweetness of the bars.
- Chocolate Frosting: For a richer option, use a chocolate frosting to add a touch of decadence. It balances out the sweetness of the cookie bars nicely.
3. Toppings
- Nuts: Sprinkle some crushed nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top for added texture and flavor.
- Fruit: Fresh berries or even dried fruit can be sprinkled on top of the frosting for a refreshing, fruity twist.
- Candy: For a fun twist, top your sugar cookie bars with crushed candy or mini chocolate chips. M&Ms or Reese’s Pieces are especially fun for kids’ parties.
Conclusion on Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Sugar cookie bars are a versatile, easy-to-make treat that can be customized to fit any occasion. With a soft, chewy texture and a rich buttercream frosting, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you choose to keep them simple or add fun flavors and toppings, these bars are guaranteed to impress.
Whether you’re preparing them for a special event or just baking for the family, sugar cookie bars offer the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and fun. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the delightful process of creating these delicious treats!
Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Sugar Cookie Bars:
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 300g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
- 320g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- Granulated sugar (for topping, optional)
- For the American Buttercream Frosting:
- 170g unsalted butter, softened
- 380g powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp cream or milk (adjust for consistency)
- Gel food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch (20x30cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and sugar together in a mixer until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Sift the dry ingredients (flour, salt, and baking soda) and gradually add them to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan and press down gently. Sprinkle granulated sugar on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
- Cool the cookie bars on a wire rack.
- Prepare the frosting: Beat together the butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Add cream/milk until the frosting is spreadable. Add food coloring if desired.
- Frost the cooled bars with the buttercream frosting. Decorate with sprinkles if desired.
- Chill the bars for a few minutes to help set the frosting before cutting them into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes:
- If you prefer thicker bars, use an 8×8-inch pan and adjust the baking time.
- To make them ahead, bake the bars and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the bars without frosting for up to 3 months.
- Customize your frosting with different colors, or try cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 21g
- Protein: 2g
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling and frosting)
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: 20
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Yield: 20 bars