Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Christmas is a time for joy, laughter, and of course, delicious treats! I’m so grateful to share with you this delightful recipe for Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars! These bars capture all the classic flavors of traditional sugar cookies but in an easy-to-make form. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or looking for a sweet gift for friends and family, these irresistibly soft and buttery cookie bars topped with creamy frosting and festive sprinkles are sure to spread holiday cheer!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive dream come true! They bring back all the nostalgia of holiday baking with the whole family but without the fuss of chilling and rolling dough. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these scrumptious bars that are as fun to make as they are to eat! Imagine the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake, making your home feel warm and inviting. Plus, their vibrant frosting and colorful sprinkles add that extra sprinkle of holiday magic – who can resist?
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp almond extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
For the Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cups powdered sugar
– 3 tbsp milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Food coloring (optional)
– Holiday sprinkles
Necessary Tools
– 9×13-inch baking pan
– Parchment paper
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer (or sturdy spatula)
– Whisk
– Spreading knife or offset spatula
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to get creative! Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nuttier flavor, or add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a delightful twist! You can easily switch out the almond extract for additional vanilla or even orange zest for a refreshing zing!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this is the foundation of your bars!
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until everything is well combined. You’ll love the sweetness that fills the air!
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Let cool completely in the pan.
6. While the cookie bars are cooling, prepare the frosting! Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and spreadable. If you’d like some color, add food coloring—this is where you can let your creativity shine!
7. Once the cookie bars are cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Don’t forget to sprinkle those holiday sprinkles on top for a festive touch!
8. After the frosting sets, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles, and serve to all your holiday guests!
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect on their own, but why not pair them with a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of hot cocoa? They also make a delightful addition to a holiday dessert platter alongside brownies, peppermint bark, and fruitcake!
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
– Don’t overmix the cookie dough to keep the bars tender.
– Let the bars cool completely before frosting for the best results.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for just a few seconds until they’re delightfully soft!
FAQ Section
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance—just store them properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie bars! Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Conclusion
There you have it—a super simple yet phenomenally delicious recipe for Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars! Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on cozy holiday evenings, these bars only require minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor and festive joy. I encourage you to make these with your family and to spread the holiday spirit! Don’t forget to leave your reviews, share photos, or tag this recipe on Pinterest or Instagram—the joy of baking is always better when shared!
Nutritional Information
Approximately 200 calories per serving (1 bar), with varying values for sugar, fat, and carbohydrates based on exact ingredients and portion sizes. Adjust as needed for your dietary preferences!
