Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

These Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are an irresistible treat, offering a delightful combination of soft, chewy cookies with a generous layer of sweet frosting. The vibrant sprinkles add a touch of fun and color, making these bars not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

They are perfect for any gathering or just a special treat to enjoy at home. The buttery cookie base pairs wonderfully with the smooth, creamy frosting, and the sprinkles give them an extra pop of fun. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or simply craving a sweet snack, these bars are sure to please everyone who takes a bite.

Full Recipe:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

• 1 tablespoon milk

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1-2 tablespoons milk

• Sprinkles for topping (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or non-stick spray.

2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk, mixing until well combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

6. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

7. Let the bars cool completely before frosting.

Frosting:

1. In a medium bowl, beat softened butter with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon milk until smooth.

2. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of milk until the desired consistency is reached.

3. Spread the frosting over the cooled bars and top with sprinkles if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 265 kcal | Servings: 12 servings

History and Origin

Sugar cookies have long been a staple of American baking traditions, with their origins believed to date back to the 1700s in Pennsylvania, where German settlers are credited with creating the first version. The cookie itself is simple, typically made from flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, giving it a slightly sweet and buttery flavor. It wasn’t until the 20th century, however, that sugar cookies began to gain popularity in various forms, especially with the advent of frosting and sprinkles.

The concept of cookie bars came along later, during the 1950s and 1960s, as busy families sought ways to simplify baking. By spreading cookie dough in a single pan and cutting it into bars, bakers could reduce the time spent rolling and shaping individual cookies. Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars likely emerged as a natural evolution of this trend, combining the well-loved sugar cookie with a decadent frosting topping to create a convenient, yet indulgent dessert.

Variations and Adaptations

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars, while delicious on their own, can easily be adapted to suit various tastes and preferences. One of the most common variations involves altering the frosting to suit different flavors. Instead of the traditional vanilla frosting, some bakers opt for chocolate frosting, cream cheese frosting, or even a tangy lemon glaze for a refreshing twist. These frosting changes can drastically alter the overall flavor of the cookie bars, offering something for everyone.

Regional adaptations also exist. For example, in the Midwest, it’s not uncommon to see Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars adorned with brightly colored sprinkles or themed decorations for holidays like Christmas or Easter. This customization adds a festive touch, making them perfect for special occasions.

Another fun variation is to infuse the cookie dough itself with different flavorings. Adding a teaspoon of almond extract in addition to vanilla gives the bars a unique depth of flavor. Alternatively, mixing in mini chocolate chips, rainbow sprinkles, or even a dash of cinnamon can give the bars a playful and personalized twist.

For those with dietary restrictions, Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars can easily be adapted into gluten-free or dairy-free versions. Using gluten-free all-purpose flour and dairy-free butter and frosting substitutes ensures that everyone can enjoy these treats.

Nutritional Information

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are undeniably a sweet indulgence, and while they’re not exactly a health food, understanding their nutritional content can help you enjoy them in moderation.

A single serving (one square) of Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars generally contains around 265 calories. The calorie content primarily comes from the sugar and butter in the cookie base and the frosting. The exact nutritional breakdown varies based on the specific recipe used, but here’s a general idea:

• Calories: 265

• Fat: 13g (including saturated fat)

• Carbohydrates: 37g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 24g

• Protein: 2g

The frosting contributes a significant portion of the sugar content, while the cookie base provides most of the fat and carbohydrates. While these bars are not rich in fiber or protein, they do offer a good amount of energy, making them perfect for a treat after a meal or as a snack during the day.

To make the recipe a bit lighter, consider using a reduced-fat butter or opting for a sugar substitute. For those looking to keep things more balanced, pairing these bars with a protein-rich snack or drink can help offset the sugar load.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways, depending on the occasion. For a family-friendly treat, these bars are perfect for an after-school snack or a weekend dessert. Serve them at birthday parties, bake sales, or any festive gathering, and watch them disappear in no time.

Pair these sweet bars with a hot beverage like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for an indulgent dessert experience. Their sweetness complements the slight bitterness of coffee or the richness of a hot chocolate drink. For a fun variation, try serving these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a mini sundae treat.

If you’re looking for a way to make these bars even more decadent, drizzle them with a bit of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar. They also go wonderfully with a glass of milk, enhancing their sweet and creamy flavor.

For a more refined take, you could serve these cookie bars at a casual brunch or afternoon tea. Add fresh fruit, such as berries or citrus slices, on the side for a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the bars.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars turn out perfectly, here are a few expert tips to keep in mind:

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: Be sure to soften your butter before using it in the dough. Cold butter will make it difficult to achieve a smooth, creamy batter, which can affect the texture of your cookie bars.

2. Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.

3. Be Careful with the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the baking time. You want the bars to be lightly golden around the edges, but not overbaked. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when they’re done.

4. Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have the time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help the bars hold their shape and prevent them from spreading too much during baking.

5. Let the Bars Cool Completely: Always allow the cookie bars to cool completely before frosting them. This prevents the frosting from melting and helps it set perfectly.

Potential Health Benefits

While Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars aren’t a health food per se, there are a few ingredients in the recipe that can provide some benefits when consumed in moderation. For example, butter is a source of vitamin A, which is important for healthy vision and skin. Additionally, the small amount of almond extract used in the dough can offer a hint of antioxidants.

That said, this treat should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and in moderation, as the sugar content is high, which may contribute to weight gain or blood sugar spikes if consumed in excess.

Conclusion

Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are a fun, easy-to-make treat that will quickly become a favorite at your next gathering. Their light, fluffy texture, paired with the creamy frosting and colorful sprinkles, makes them as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday, a birthday party, or simply because you’re craving something sweet, these bars are guaranteed to impress. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a classic dessert that will delight everyone who takes a bite!