Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

Every year, as the holiday season rolls around, I find myself craving the sweet, buttery goodness of Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars. There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially when they’re adorned with festive sprinkles. I remember the first time I made these with my family; we spent the afternoon laughing and decorating together, transforming our kitchen into a winter wonderland of flour and sugar. These cookie bars are more than just a treat; they’re a memory in the making. With each bite, you can taste the joy, love, and holiday spirit that goes into them. I love the way the soft, chewy bars melt in your mouth, and the vibrant sprinkles add that perfect touch of cheer. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking to indulge in a sweet moment while cozying up with some hot cocoa, these bars are a must-have in your festive repertoire. It’s a recipe that brings people together, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

What to Gather for Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

For these Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars, we’ll be using a simple set of ingredients that come together beautifully. The combination of unsalted butter, sugar, and flour creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, making these bars irresistible. Each ingredient plays an important role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness and texture, resulting in a treat that everyone will love.

• 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter, softened – The base for our cookie bars, contributing to their rich flavor and soft texture.
• 1 ¼ cups white granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps to create that delightful chewy texture.
• 3 eggs – Binds the ingredients together and provides structure to the bars.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – A key ingredient for that warm, comforting flavor.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – The main dry ingredient that forms the base of our cookie bars.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the bars to rise and become fluffy.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda – Provides additional leavening, ensuring a light texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• ¼ cup red and green jimmie sprinkles, mixed – A festive touch that makes these bars extra special.
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (12 tablespoons), softened – For the creamy frosting that tops our bars.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Ensures the frosting is perfectly seasoned.
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
• Additional red and green jimmie sprinkles – For decorating the frosted bars and adding that festive flair.

The Process for Making Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

Making Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with heavenly aromas. It’s an easy step-by-step journey that even novice bakers can master. Just follow along, and you’ll have delicious bars to share in no time!

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking dish by lining a 9 inch by 13 inch glass baking dish with parchment paper. This will prevent the bars from sticking and ensure they come out cleanly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream the two together for about two to three minutes. You want the mixture to become light and fluffy, so be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture in your bars.
3. Next, crack the eggs into a small bowl and beat them lightly with a fork. Then, add the beaten eggs, along with the vanilla extract, to the fluffy butter-sugar mixture. Mix until all the wet ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents, ensuring the bars rise perfectly when baked. Once mixed, gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed at first, then medium, until a dough forms.
5. After your dough is ready, fold in about a quarter cup of the red and green mixed sprinkles. Mixing for about a minute on medium speed will ensure the sprinkles are evenly distributed throughout the dough, adding pops of color and festive cheer!
6. Now, it’s time to transfer the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. The dough may feel a little sticky but should spread easily. Use a rubber spatula or your clean hands to spread the dough evenly in the pan, paying extra attention to the edges and corners.
7. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 27 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges start turning a golden brown. Be careful not to overbake; the center should remain light in color and firm when you tilt the pan. Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 to 30 minutes.
8. While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a clean bowl, beat the softened butter with a whisk attachment or beaters for three to four minutes, scraping down the sides to ensure an even mix. Add in the vanilla and salt, then mix until well combined.
9. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed at first and then increasing to medium. This prevents the sugar from puffing everywhere and allows it to fully mix in. Continue until you achieve a smooth, fluffy frosting.
10. Once the cookie bars have cooled completely, generously frost the top with the buttercream. Feel free to add more sprinkles on top for an extra festive touch! Finally, using a sharp knife, trim the edges of the cookie bars for a neat finish before slicing them into even pieces.

Expert Tips about Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

Creating the perfect Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to ensure your baking experience is smooth and successful.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing. They will combine more easily and create a smoother batter.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are crucial for achieving the best results. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Customize your Sprinkles: While I love the classic red and green jimmies, feel free to get creative with your sprinkle options. You can use holiday-themed sprinkles or even chocolate chips for a twist.
• Chill the Dough: If you find your dough too sticky to handle, consider chilling it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to spread in the pan.
• Test for Doneness: To check if the bars are done, gently press the center with your finger; it should bounce back slightly. If it leaves an indentation, they need more time.
• Frosting Variations: Experiment with different flavors of frosting, such as cream cheese or chocolate, to change things up. Each variation brings a new experience!

Serving Options for Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

When it comes to serving your Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars, the possibilities are endless. Here are some fun ideas to consider:

• Holiday Gatherings: These cookie bars are perfect for holiday parties and family gatherings. Serve them on a festive platter for a colorful display that will impress your guests!
• Gift Giving: Wrap individual bars in cellophane or place them in a decorative box for a thoughtful homemade gift. Friends and neighbors will appreciate the sweet gesture!
• Pair with Hot Cocoa: Enjoy these bars alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or coffee. The sweetness complements the warmth of the drinks perfectly, making for a cozy treat.
• Seasonal Events: From Christmas to New Year’s celebrations, these bars fit right in. They can also be a delightful addition to office holiday parties or bake sales.
• Storage Tips: To keep them fresh, store your cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just be sure to wrap them well!
• Decorative Serving: Consider cutting the bars into festive shapes with cookie cutters for an exciting presentation. Guests will love the unique look!

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are not just a dessert; they are a festive experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. They are easy to make, visually stunning, and taste absolutely delightful. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and bake a batch today! Your family and friends will thank you for this delicious addition to their holiday celebrations.

Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

Indulge in the ultimate festive treat with these soft and chewy Christmas Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars. Topped with creamy frosting and vibrant sprinkles, these bars are perfect for holiday gatherings. They're easy to make, and each bite is filled with joy!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 20 bars

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 210

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter softened
• 1 ¼ cups white granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup red and green jimmie sprinkles mixed
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter 12 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
• Additional red and green jimmie sprinkles to decorate

Equipment

• 9 x 13 inch baking dish
• Parchment Paper
• Rubber spatula
• Electric Mixer

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 inch by 13 inch glass baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy, about two to three minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Crack the eggs into a small bowl and beat lightly. Add to the butter-sugar mixture along with vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add into the wet mixture, mixing on low and then medium until a dough forms.
5. Fold in a quarter cup of the red and green sprinkles, mixing until evenly distributed.
6. Transfer the dough into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a rubber spatula or clean hands.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 27 minutes, until edges are golden. Cool for 20 to 30 minutes in the pan.
8. While cooling, prepare the frosting by beating softened butter for three to four minutes. Add vanilla and salt, mixing until well combined.
9. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Frost the cooled cookie bars and decorate with additional sprinkles.
10. Trim the edges for a neat finish and slice into even pieces before serving.

Notes

• Do Not Over Bake: These cookie bars taste their best when they are a little gooey. If overbaked, they can become too crispy.
• Use a Stand Mixer: This recipe is best made using a stand mixer as the dough is thick.
• Chill if Too Gooey: If slicing, let the bars cool completely. If they're too gooey, refrigerate for a bit.
• Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper helps to lift the cookies off the pan easily.

Previous PostStrawberry Layer Cake

Next Post Salmon Poke

Meet Lily Parker