Perfect for the holiday season, these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are your ticket to deliciousness without the fuss of rolling and cutting individual cookies. Packed with festive flavors and topped with a creamy frosting, they’re sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Why This Recipe Works
- No rolling or cutting required, making it a time-saver during the busy holiday season.
- The dough is forgiving and easy to work with, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Customizable with different colors and sprinkles to match any holiday theme.
- The bars stay soft and chewy for days, making them great for make-ahead treats.
- Perfect for sharing, these bars can be cut into any size to serve a crowd.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Red and green food coloring (optional)
- 1/2 cup sprinkles (optional)
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This step ensures your bars won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms. If desired, divide the dough and tint portions with red and green food coloring for a festive touch.
Press and Bake
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. If using sprinkles, sprinkle them over the top and gently press into the dough. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The center may look slightly underbaked but will set as it cools.
Cool Completely
Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan to cool completely before frosting. This patience ensures your frosting won’t melt when applied.
Frost and Decorate
Once cooled, spread your favorite frosting over the top and decorate with additional sprinkles if desired. Cut into squares and serve. For best results, let the frosting set for about an hour before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra festive look, layer different colored doughs before baking to create a marbled effect. If you’re short on time, store-bought frosting works just as well as homemade. To ensure even baking, rotate the pan halfway through the baking time. For a crispier edge, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
Recipe Variations
- Add 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes to the dough for a minty twist.
- Swap the vanilla extract for almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Mix in 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips for added sweetness and texture.
- Use lemon extract and yellow food coloring for a springtime version.
- Top with a cream cheese frosting instead of vanilla for a tangy contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars keep well at room temperature for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze the unfrosted bars for up to a month. Just thaw and frost before serving.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can substitute your favorite gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitution blend for the best results. The texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious.
How do I get clean cuts?
For clean, sharp cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the bars for about 30 minutes before cutting can also help achieve cleaner edges.
Summary
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive, easy-to-make alternative to traditional cookies, perfect for holiday gatherings. With options for customization and make-ahead convenience, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite.