sugar cookie bars
These soft and chewy sugar cookie bars are a delicious twist on traditional sugar cookies. They are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Topped with a simple icing, they are sure to become a favorite!
Equipment
- 1 13x9-inch baking pan
- multiple mixing bowls
- 1 electric mixer or whisk
- 1 rubber spatula
- 1 parchment paper (optional for easy removal)
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
- sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the 13x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In another large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and both extracts (vanilla and almond) until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a rubber spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the sugar cookie bars to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack before icing.
- For the icing, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
- Once cooled, spread the icing evenly over the bars and sprinkle with decorations if desired.
- Cut into 12 bars and serve.
Notes
Feel free to customize these bars by adding sprinkles or chocolate chips to the dough before baking.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
These bars can also be frozen; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.