Soft Buttery Sugar Cookie Bars (Printable Version)
Soft, buttery cookie layers topped with smooth vanilla frosting and colorful sprinkles for an irresistible handheld dessert.
# What You'll Need:
→ Cookie Bars
01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
05 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Creamy Frosting
08 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
10 - 2 tablespoons whole milk, plus more as needed
11 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
12 - Pinch of salt
13 - Food coloring, optional
14 - Sprinkles, optional
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal.
02 - Beat softened butter and granulated sugar with electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
03 - Add egg and vanilla extract to creamed mixture. Beat until fully incorporated.
04 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in separate bowl until evenly distributed.
05 - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough texture.
06 - Evenly press dough into prepared pan using hands or spatula, creating uniform thickness.
07 - Bake for 18-22 minutes until edges are lightly golden and center is set. Do not overbake.
08 - Allow bars to cool completely in pan on wire rack before frosting.
09 - Beat butter until creamy. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy, adjusting milk consistency as needed. Add food coloring if desired.
10 - Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars. Top with sprinkles if using.
11 - Lift bars from pan using parchment overhang. Slice into 24 equal squares.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The texture walks this perfect line between cookie and cake that somehow feels more special than either
- One pan means less dishes and more time to debate frosting colors with your kids
02 -
- Overbaking by even two minutes turns these soft bars into something disappointing and dry
- Frosting goes on much smoother when bars are completely cool, so resist the urge to rush this part
03 -
- Room temperature ingredients prevent curdling and ensure even baking
- Rotate the pan halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots