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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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://hannahdelgado.com/frosted-sugar-cookie-bar-recipe/