Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars offer all the deliciousness of sugar cookies but in bar form, making them easier to serve and enjoy. The soft, tender cookie base is complemented by a rich and creamy frosting, creating the perfect combination of sweetness and flavor. With a hint of vanilla and almond extract in the cookie base and a smooth cream cheese frosting, these bars have a unique flavor that’s guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or for a simple dessert at home.

Ingredients

For the cookie bars:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon milk

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the cookie bars:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt, and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in the milk to make the dough slightly soft but still firm enough to press into the pan.
6. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before frosting.

For the cream cheese frosting:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and milk, and beat until well combined and smooth.
3. Once the cookie bars have completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top of the bars.
4. Cut into squares and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add sprinkles: For a festive touch, top the frosted cookie bars with colorful sprinkles, especially for holidays or birthdays.
• Different frosting: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can use a simple buttercream frosting or even a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.
• Add lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the frosting for a fresh, citrusy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the sugar cookie bars.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting for a rich chocolatey twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover sugar cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store them for longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

FAQs

1. Can I make these sugar cookie bars without the almond extract?

Yes, you can omit the almond extract if you don’t have it or don’t like the flavor. The bars will still be delicious with just the vanilla extract.

2. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid making the bars too salty.

3. Can I use a gluten-free flour blend for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Just ensure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binding agent.

4. Can I freeze the cookie bars before frosting them?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie bars after baking them and before frosting. Once they are completely cooled, wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw them at room temperature and frost them.

5. Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! You can use buttercream frosting, a simple glaze, or even a whipped cream topping as alternatives to the cream cheese frosting.

6. How do I know when the cookie bars are done?

The cookie bars are done when the edges are lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this will make the bars dry.

7. Can I make these bars without a mixer?

Yes, you can make the cookie dough and frosting by hand using a whisk and spoon, though a hand or stand mixer will make it quicker and easier.

8. Can I add chocolate chips to the cookie dough?

Yes, you can mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the dough before pressing it into the baking dish for a delicious chocolatey variation.

9. Can I use a different pan size?

You can use a smaller pan, like an 8×8-inch dish, but the bars may need additional baking time. If you use a larger pan, the bars will be thinner and bake faster.

10. Can I make the frosting in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the frosting ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature and give it a quick mix before spreading it on the cooled cookie bars.

Conclusion

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are an easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The soft, chewy cookie base is complemented by a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting, making these bars irresistible. Whether you enjoy them for a holiday celebration, a birthday party, or just as an everyday treat, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert collection. Simple, sweet, and full of flavor .

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