Introduction
These Soft Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for sharing this Valentine’s season or any time you crave a sweet, buttery treat. With a tender crumb and a rich frosting, they’re a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie that everyone loves.
Ingredients
250g all-purpose flour
3g baking powder
1g salt
113g unsalted butter, softened
150g granulated sugar
1 large egg
5ml vanilla extract
60ml sour cream
Frosting:
113g unsalted butter, softened
250g powdered sugar
10ml milk
3ml vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)
Sprinkles (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Bake for 14-16 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven, and allow to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, and mix until smooth.
9. Add the milk and vanilla extract, continue to beat until the frosting is fluffy. Add food coloring if desired.
10. Once the cookie base is cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top, and add sprinkles if using.
11. Cut into bars and serve.
Enjoy these delightful Soft Sugar Cookie Bars with friends and family!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, which will help your cookie bars release easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 250g all-purpose flour, 3g baking powder, and 1g salt. This combination will give your cookie bars the perfect structure and texture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat 113g softened unsalted butter and 150g granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. The air whipped into the mixture will make your bars soft and tender.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
To the butter mixture, add 1 large egg, 5ml vanilla extract, and 60ml sour cream. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a rich and creamy batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookie bars soft.
Step 6: Press Dough into Pan
Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan and press it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
Step 7: Bake the Cookie Bars
Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until the edges of the bars are lightly golden. The aroma of sweet cookies filling your kitchen will be irresistible. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat 113g softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 250g powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
Step 9: Finish the Frosting
Incorporate 10ml milk and 3ml vanilla extract into the frosting mixture. Beat until it reaches a light and airy consistency. If desired, add food coloring for a festive touch.
Step 10: Frost the Cookie Bars
Once the cookie base is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. You can also sprinkle colorful sprinkles for a charming look, perfect for any celebration.
Step 11: Cut and Serve
Cut the cookie bars into squares and serve. These decadent treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Notes
Storage
Store leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week for a chillier treat.
Customization
Feel free to customize your bars by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit according to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
These cookie bars can be paired with a glass of milk or a cup of tea, making them a delightful snack any time of day.
Frosting Variations
Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist on the frosting.
Allergy Considerations
For dairy-free options, you can substitute with plant-based butter and alternatives to sour cream.
Cook Techniques
Prepping the Baking Pan
Before starting your cookie bars, ensure your 9×13-inch baking pan is lined with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also allows for easy removal of the bars once baked.
Mixing Ingredients
When beating the butter and sugar, aim for a light and fluffy texture. This aeration is crucial for a tender, soft cookie.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients
Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually. Overmixing can lead to tough cookie bars, so combine until just mixed.
Pressing the Dough
Press the dough evenly into the baking pan using your fingers or a spatula. Ensure it’s flat for even baking.
Baking Times
Watch closely while the bars bake. Remove them from the oven when the edges are lightly golden to avoid overbaking, which can lead to dryness.
Cooling Properly
Let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan. This helps improve the texture and makes them easier to frost.
Frosting Techniques
For a smooth frosting, ensure your butter is properly softened. Mix the powdered sugar gradually to avoid a cloud of sugar, and beat until fluffy.
Adding Color and Decoration
When using food coloring, add it gradually to achieve your desired hue. Sprinkles can add a festive touch; use them immediately after frosting for the best adhesion.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with alternative flours, but note that it may alter the texture and flavor of the cookie bars.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar tangy flavor.
How do I store leftover cookie bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.
Can I freeze the cookie bars?
Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Is it possible to make these cookie bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum for better texture.
Conclusion
These Soft Sugar Cookie Bars are not only a delightful treat but also a wonderfully shareable dessert for various occasions. Their tender texture and rich frosting make them a favorite among both kids and adults alike, perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence at home.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Transform your sugar cookie bars by adding chocolate chips to the batter for a classic twist that everyone will enjoy.
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Top your sugar cookie bars with a rich peanut butter frosting for a delicious combination of sweet and nutty flavors.
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