Easy Sugar Cookie Bars: A Cozy Treat Worth Sharing
As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite as inviting as a warm batch of sugar cookie bars fresh from the oven. The comforting aroma of vanilla and buttery sweetness fills the air, wrapping you in a cozy embrace that makes you want to gather with loved ones. These Easy Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful way to celebrate life’s little moments, whether it’s a casual get-together, a festive holiday gathering, or simply a cozy afternoon at home. With their tender texture and creamy frosting, they’re a treat even your busiest weeknight can accommodate. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch ready to bake – perfect for busy weeknight desserts!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults loves a good sugar cookie, making this a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
- Irresistibly Creamy: Topped with rich and creamy frosting, every bite feels like a warm hug.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the flavors or toppings to suit your family’s preferences or seasonal themes.
- Foolproof: With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe ensures success every time!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Sugar Cookie Bars
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Creamy frosting (store-bought or homemade)
How to Make Easy Sugar Cookie Bars
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy and well combined, with a lovely buttery hue that promises deliciousness.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing until everything is well incorporated and a delightful sweetness fills the air.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, creating a fluffy dry mix that’ll bring the cookie bars together.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined; be careful not to overmix— this helps ensure tender bars!
- Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth layer that beckons you to taste.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean— the anticipation will be real!
- Allow to cool completely before icing with creamy frosting, spreading it lovingly over the surface for that perfect finish.
- Cut into bars and serve, watching as smiles bloom around your table!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Mix in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough before spreading it in the pan. The melty goodness adds a rich double flavor that’s simply divine!
- Citrusy Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a refreshing zing that brightens up the sweetness— especially wonderful for spring gatherings.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a savory crunch that compliments the cookie’s soft texture beautifully.
- Seasonal Sprinkles: Top with festive sprinkles to celebrate any holiday, transforming these bars into the perfect party treat that’s visually joyful!
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Advice: You can prepare the dough ahead and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
- Ingredient Swaps: For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg in place of the large egg.
- Slicing Secrets: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts on your cookie bars, making each piece as pretty as the last!
- Storage Suggestions: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Calories & Nutrition Details
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 90mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! The dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to swap the butter for a vegan alternative or use different flavored extracts for variety.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- How long does it last? These delicious bars can last up to a week when stored properly, though I doubt they’ll last that long!
Wrapping It Up
There’s something truly special about gathering around a plate of freshly baked Easy Sugar Cookie Bars. With their familiar flavors and soft, tender texture, they evoke warm memories and create new ones effortlessly. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or sharing them with friends, these bars are guaranteed to brighten your day. Save this Easy Sugar Cookie Bars recipe to your cozy treats board so it’s ready when you need a delightful snack that warms the heart!
Print
Easy Sugar Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful sugar cookie bars topped with creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Creamy frosting (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy and well combined.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing until well incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before icing with creamy frosting.
- Cut into bars and serve.
Notes
For variations, try mixing in mini chocolate chips, adding citrus zest, or folding in chopped nuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: sugar cookie, dessert bars, easy recipe