Frosted Sugar Cookie Bar Recipe

Introduction

These Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars combine the best of soft, buttery sugar cookies topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with every bite.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the frosting:
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 ounces whipped cream cheese (about 1/2 cup)
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• Candy hearts or sprinkles, for decorating

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on one side for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium-high speed for about 30 seconds until fluffy. Slowly add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until combined.
3. Step 3: Add the egg and vanilla extract, then beat until fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the flour, baking powder, and salt evenly over the wet ingredients. Turn the mixer to low and mix until just combined.
5. Step 5: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan and press it evenly into the bottom with your fingers.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few crumbs. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
7. Step 7: Meanwhile, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter and whipped cream cheese together until fluffy, about 1 minute. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
8. Step 8: On low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar in halves, mixing until smooth. If needed, add a splash of milk to thin the frosting to your desired consistency.
9. Step 9: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. Decorate with candy hearts or sprinkles as desired.
10. Step 10: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan, then slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality unsalted butter, such as European-style, for richer flavor.
• Adding a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the cookie flavor.
• Whipped cream cheese works best for a smooth, creamy frosting texture.
• Try decorating with different sprinkles or colored sugars for festive variations.

Storage

Store these bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days due to the cream cheese frosting. You can also freeze the unfrosted bars for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of whipped cream cheese?

Yes, regular cream cheese can be used, but whipped cream cheese provides a lighter, smoother texture in the frosting.

Why do I need to refrigerate the bars?

Because the frosting contains cream cheese, refrigeration is necessary to keep the bars fresh and safe to eat.

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bar Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 133 reviews

These Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars combine the classic taste of buttery sugar cookies with a rich and creamy whipped cream cheese frosting. Perfectly soft and tender, they are baked in a convenient 8×8-inch pan, then topped with a smooth, fluffy frosting and decorated with festive candy hearts or sprinkles. Ideal for celebrations or anytime you crave a nostalgic treat with a luscious twist.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars (depending on slice size) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Base

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Frosting

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 ounces whipped cream cheese (about 1/2 cup)
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• Candy hearts or sprinkles, for decorating

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends one way to make removing the bars easier later.
2. Make the Cookie Batter: In a mini stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter on medium-high speed for about 30 seconds to fluff it up. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the flour, baking powder, and salt evenly over the wet mixture. Turn the mixer to low and beat just until the dry ingredients are incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
4. Shape and Bake: Transfer the cookie batter into the prepared pan and use your fingers to press it evenly and flat into the pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few crumbs remaining. Allow the cookie base to cool completely before frosting.
5. Prepare the Frosting: In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and whipped cream cheese for about 1 minute until fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and continue beating.
6. Add Powdered Sugar: Lower the mixer speed and gradually add the powdered sugar, about half a cup at a time, mixing continuously to avoid lumps. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve your desired spreading consistency.
7. Frost and Decorate: Spread the smooth cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. Decorate the top with candy hearts or sprinkles as desired.
8. Serve: Slice the bars into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

• Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture. European-style butter with a higher fat content works especially well but is optional.
• Salt: The small amount of salt in the dough balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
• Whipped Cream Cheese: Using whipped cream cheese creates a smoother, fluffier frosting that complements these bars perfectly.
• Storage: Due to the cream cheese frosting, these bars must be refrigerated and will keep for up to 5 days. You can freeze the un-frosted bars for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge and then add frosting before serving.

Keywords: Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars, Sugar Cookie Bars, Cream Cheese Frosting, Easy Dessert, Bar Cookies, Holiday Treat