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Sugar Cookie Bars

Delicious and comforting Sugar Cookie Bars that are quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion and always a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 27 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 24 squares
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Bars
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 14 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature the star of the show!
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract don’t skip this; it makes all the difference!
For the Frosting
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for frosting
  • 1/4 cup milk, room temperature
  • Red food coloring to add some festive flair
  • Sprinkles because sprinkles make everything better!

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the room-temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 6 minutes.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in the vanilla extract.
  5. Slowly add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, starting on low speed, then mixing on high until smooth and velvety.
  6. Spread the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 27 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Let cool for an hour.
Frosting
  1. Beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy, then add 1 cup of powdered sugar and mix until combined.
  2. Mix in the milk and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar until you reach desired consistency. Optionally, add red food coloring.
Assembly
  1. Spread the frosting on top of the cooled Sugar Cookie Bars and finish with sprinkles.
  2. Cut into 24 squares and store them in single layers.

Notes

For a time-saving trick, chill the dough a day ahead. If the frosting is too thick, add milk until soft. Optionally add lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing twist.