Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive twist on the classic sugar cookie. These soft, buttery bars are topped with creamy frosting and colorful holiday sprinkles, making them a quick and easy treat for the holiday season. Perfect for parties, cookie exchanges, or as a fun family baking project, these bars are as delightful to eat as they are to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easier and faster than rolling and cutting traditional sugar cookies.
• Soft, thick, and perfectly sweet with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Festive and customizable with frosting colors and sprinkles.
• Ideal for holiday parties, gifting, or cookie platters.

Ingredients

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

For the Cookie Bars:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Milk (or heavy cream)
• Food coloring (optional)
• Holiday sprinkles

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
3. Bake the Bars:
   • Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down into an even layer.
   • Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
4. Make the Frosting:
   • Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy. Stir in vanilla and a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency. Add food coloring if desired.
5. Frost and Decorate:
   • Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. Top with holiday sprinkles.
6. Slice and Serve:
   • Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 24 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Peppermint Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough or frosting and top with crushed candy canes.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the frosting for an elegant touch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Layered Bars: Add a thin layer of jam or chocolate spread under the frosting for a surprise burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
• Reheating: These bars do not require reheating and are best enjoyed at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought frosting?

Yes, store-bought frosting works if you’re short on time, but homemade frosting adds a richer flavor.

2. How do I ensure the bars are soft and chewy?

Do not overbake. Remove the bars from the oven as soon as the edges are golden and the center is set.

3. Can I add mix-ins to the dough?

Yes, mix in mini chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for extra texture.

4. What if I don’t have holiday sprinkles?

Use colored sugar, edible glitter, or crushed candies as a substitute.

5. Can I make these bars thicker?

For thicker bars, use an 8×8-inch pan and adjust the baking time to ensure the center cooks through.

6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used if necessary.

7. How can I make the frosting more festive?

Divide the frosting into batches and dye each a different holiday color. Swirl the colors on the bars for a fun effect.

8. Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

No chilling is required, but chilling the dough slightly can help create a denser texture.

9. Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk alternative in the frosting.

10. How do I cut the bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat edges. Chilling the bars slightly before slicing also helps.

Conclusion

Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are the ultimate festive treat, combining the buttery goodness of sugar cookies with the ease of a bar dessert. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying at home, these bars are versatile, customizable, and sure to be a holiday favorite. Whip up a batch, add your favorite decorations, and spread the holiday cheer!

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