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Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 52 reviews

These Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, baked in a single sheet pan for easy serving. They feature a soft, buttery cookie base flavored with vanilla and almond extracts, topped with a creamy, smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat anytime, these bars offer a simple yet indulgent dessert that combines tender texture with rich frosting.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Base

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (227g), room temperature
  • 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 4 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (594g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113g), room temperature
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 4–5 cups powdered sugar (480g-600g), more or less depending on desired frosting thickness
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a 13×18-inch half sheet pan with non-stick cooking spray. Alternatively, you can use a 9×13-inch pan by cutting the recipe in half.
  2. Make the Cookie Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until fully combined. Spread and press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
  4. Bake the Bars: Bake at 375 degrees F for 12 to 16 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges begin to turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
  5. Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually add the powdered sugar, blending continuously until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Adjust the amount of powdered sugar based on your preferred thickness and taste.
  6. Frost and Serve: Once the bars have completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares and serve.
  7. Storage: Store the sugar cookie bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Notes

  • Ensure the cookie bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent frosting from melting.
  • You can use 9×13-inch pan by halving the recipe; adjust baking time as needed.
  • For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar; for a lighter frosting, use less.
  • Bring butter and cream cheese to room temperature to ensure smooth frosting.
  • These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Keywords: sugar cookie bars, cream cheese frosting, easy dessert bars, sheet pan cookies, vanilla almond sugar cookies

Find it online: https://tastewithamy.com/sugar-cookie-bars-recipe/