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Sugar Cookie Bars Easy

Sugar Cookie Bars With Cream Cheese 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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 20
Course: Baking
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Sugar Cookie Bars:
  • 225 g unsalted butter softened
  • 300 g granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  • 320 g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp baking soda
  • Granulated sugar for topping, optional
For the American Buttercream Frosting:
  • 170 g unsalted butter softened
  • 380 g powdered sugar sifted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp cream or milk adjust for consistency
  • Gel food coloring optional
  • Sprinkles optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch (20x30cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar together in a mixer until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
  3. Sift the dry ingredients (flour, salt, and baking soda) and gradually add them to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
  4. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan and press down gently. Sprinkle granulated sugar on top if desired.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
  6. Cool the cookie bars on a wire rack.
  7. 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.
  8. Frost the cooled bars with the buttercream frosting. Decorate with sprinkles if desired.
  9. Chill the bars for a few minutes to help set the frosting before cutting them into squares or rectangles.
  10. 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