Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

If you’ve ever dreamed of sinking your teeth into a thick, soft sugar cookie slathered with creamy frosting all without having to chill, roll, or cut out dough girl, you are so in for a treat. These Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are the ultimate shortcut to sweet, buttery bliss. They’re soft, chewy, and topped with a dreamy frosting that’s just the right amount of sweet. Oh, and sprinkles? Always. Whether you’re baking for a party, a bake sale, or just a Tuesday (because yes, you deserve it), this recipe is about to become your new obsession.

Why You’ll Love Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Great for birthdays, holidays, school lunches, or midnight snacks.
Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
Quick and Easy: No chilling, rolling, or cookie cutters just press and bake.
Customizable: Change up the frosting color and sprinkles for any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

Here’s the magic of these bars: they taste like the best sugar cookies ever, but they come together in a fraction of the time. Let’s break it down:

Butter: The foundation of a rich, tender cookie bar. Use unsalted for control over the flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps it hold its structure.
Eggs: Bind the dough and give it a soft, cakey texture.
Vanilla Extract: Adds that classic sugar cookie flavor we all love.
All-Purpose Flour: Gives the bars their shape and soft bite.
Baking Powder: Just enough lift to make these bars fluffy, not flat.
Salt: A pinch makes all the other flavors pop.

For the Frosting:

Butter: The base of that velvety, luscious frosting.
Powdered Sugar: Keeps the frosting light and fluffy.
Vanilla Extract: A little extra flavor boost.
Milk or Cream: Helps you get that perfect spreadable consistency.
Sprinkles: Because life is better with color and crunch.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will help the bars come out easily after baking.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Slowly stir in the dry ingredients until the dough is just combined.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Pour the dough into the prepared baking dish and press it evenly into the pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.

Assemble the Dish: Once the dough is pressed in, it’s ready to bake no waiting, no chilling. Just pop it into the oven and you’re on your way to cookie bar heaven.

Cook to Perfection: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Don’t overbake soft and chewy is what we’re going for here.

Finishing Touches: Let the bars cool completely before frosting. Trust me, it’s worth the wait this keeps the frosting from melting into the warm bars.

Serve and Enjoy: Spread a generous layer of frosting over the cooled bars, top with your favorite sprinkles, and cut into squares. Try not to eat them all before sharing!

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 16
Calories per serving: Approx. 290
(Note: may vary depending on frosting and sprinkles used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of tea
• Cut into heart, star, or seasonal shapes using cookie cutters after baking
• Add themed sprinkles for holidays like Valentine’s Day, Halloween, or Christmas
• Stack a few squares and wrap them with ribbon for a cute edible gift

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Don’t overmix the dough just mix until everything is combined
• Let the bars cool completely before adding the frosting for a clean finish
• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage
• Try adding almond extract to the frosting for a bakery-style twist
• Use food coloring in the frosting to match your event or mood

FAQ’s

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes! These bars keep well for several days and can be made ahead for any occasion.
2. Can I freeze Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars?
   Absolutely. Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid.
3. Can I use store-bought frosting?
   Sure! But homemade adds that extra special touch.
4. What if I don’t have parchment paper?
   Just grease the pan well with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
5. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
   Definitely! A hand mixer works just fine for this dough and frosting.
6. How do I make them gluten-free?
   Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour, and check your other ingredients for hidden gluten.
7. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes! Just use a larger pan or bake in two batches.
8. What type of sprinkles work best?
   Jimmies and confetti-style sprinkles hold up best avoid nonpareils if storing long-term.
9. Can I use brown sugar instead of white?
   White sugar is best for that classic sugar cookie flavor and pale color.
10. Do I have to refrigerate leftovers?
    Nope! Just keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

These Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of soft, buttery goodness and sweet, creamy frosting all in one easy-to-make treat. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just want something special for yourself, these bars hit the sweet spot every time. So go ahead, whip up a batch, add some sprinkles, and get ready to fall in love. You’re going to want to keep this one in your recipe rotation forever!

Print