Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars
Indulge in these soft and tender Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars, a perfect treat for celebrations and cozy moments alike.
Ingredients
For the cookie bars
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Makes the base tender and slightly chewy.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Helps the bars rise ever so slightly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Provides richness that gives these bars their melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar For that classic sugar cookie sweetness.
- 1 large egg Adds structure and a soft crumb.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Gives a warm, floral note.
- 1/4 cup milk Adds moisture to bring the dough together smoothly.
For the frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted For a silky frosting.
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream To loosen the frosting to your desired spreadability.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan and line it with parchment for easy lifting.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla until smooth.
- Add the flour mixture in two additions, alternating with the milk, until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
Baking
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the edges are golden and a toothpick in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Making the Frosting
- While the bars cool, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar with vanilla, alternating with milk, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Assembly
- Spread the frosting over the cooled bars, and optionally add sprinkles, citrus zest, or a dusting of sanding sugar.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
For a festive twist, stir a teaspoon of almond extract into the frosting. Substitute half of the butter with applesauce or mashed banana for a healthier option. Add gel food color to the frosting for themed parties.