Sugar Cookie Bars

Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of simplicity and sweetness, making them a favorite treat for any occasion. With their soft, buttery texture and delightful vanilla essence, these bars are a crowd-pleaser, ideal for parties, bake sales, or just a cozy get-together at home. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious batch without the fuss of rolling out dough and cutting shapes.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 250
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Sugar Cookie Bars

Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of traditional sugar cookies into a simple bar format. They’re soft and chewy, with a hint of sweetness that melts in your mouth. The ease of preparation makes them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Additionally, you can personalize these bars with different toppings like colorful sprinkles, making them a great choice for celebrations or festive gatherings.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Bars

##Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• Frosting and sprinkles for topping (optional)

##Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will help you easily lift out the bars once they’re baked.

Step 2: Mixing

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, typically about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Cooking

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until everything is well combined. Once the batter is ready, spread it evenly into 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.

Step 4: Finishing

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, you can frosted them with your choice of frosting and sprinkle with colorful toppings to add a festive touch!

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Bars

Serve these delightful bars at room temperature. They make for a sweet after-school snack for kids, a charming dessert at gatherings, or a lovely treat with coffee for adult guests. You can cut them into squares or fun shapes to add a personalized touch, perfect for any occasion.

How to Store Sugar Cookie Bars

To keep your Sugar Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to extend their shelf life, freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Expert Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookie Bars

• Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best creaming results.
• For extra flavor, feel free to experiment with different extracts such as coconut or lemon.
• To prevent overbaking, keep an eye on your bars during the last few minutes of baking.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.

Delicious Variations

• Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Bars: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
• Funfetti Sugar Cookie Bars: Mix in colorful sprinkles directly into the dough for a festive look.
• Lemon Zest Sugar Cookie Bars: Incorporate lemon zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, but it may slightly change the flavor and texture.

2. How can I make these bars gluten-free?
   Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.

3. What type of frosting works best?
   Cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully, but classic buttercream is a popular choice as well.

4. Can I freeze these cookie bars?
   Yes! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

5. How can I make these bars more festive for holidays?
   Top with seasonal sprinkles and use colored frosting to match the occasion for a festive touch!

Conclusion

Sugar Cookie Bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly delightful to eat. Their soft, buttery goodness makes them a treat everyone will love, whether for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dessert. With the added bonus of customization, these bars are sure to become a beloved recipe in your home. So gather your ingredients and bake up a batch today – your tastebuds will thank you!