Why Make This Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
There’s something quintessential about sugar cookies during the holiday season. They evoke fond memories of baking in the kitchen with loved ones, crafting festive shapes, and, of course, enjoying their sweet, buttery taste. Now, imagine bringing that delightful flavor into an easy-to-make bar format! Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are not only simple to prepare, but they also cut down on the mess that comes with rolling and shaping traditional cookies. With a tender, soft texture and a creamy frosting topped with festive sprinkles, these bars are perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or just cozy nights at home. You’ll adore how inviting they are, welcoming everyone with their sweet scent and cheerful appearance.
How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Making Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars is a breeze, even for beginner bakers. The process starts by creaming the butter and sugar until they’re light and fluffy – this step is crucial for creating a delightful texture. Next, you’ll mix in eggs and vanilla to add depth of flavor. The dry ingredients come next, leading to a smooth, cohesive dough. Once baked to golden perfection, allow the bars to cool before frosting them with a rich buttercream. Finally, sprinkle on some holiday cheer with festive sprinkles. Your kitchen will smell like a winter wonderland before you know it!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20–24 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
- Cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- To make the frosting, beat the softened butter, then add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the cooled bars, add sprinkles on top, slice into squares, and serve.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 bar, assuming 24 bars):
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 2g
How to Serve Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
These cookie bars are fantastic for any festive occasion! Serve them warm or at room temperature, cut into squares for a delightful addition to your holiday dessert table. Pair them with a glass of milk, a cup of hot cocoa, or even a warm spiced chai for a cozy treat. They also make an excellent homemade gift when wrapped in pretty packaging!
How to Store Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
To keep your sugar cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for that perfect soft texture. For extended storage, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months!
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the bars tender.
- Frosting Consistency: Adjust the amount of heavy cream or milk to achieve your desired frosting consistency.
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality vanilla and butter can greatly enhance the flavor of your cookie bars.
- Decorate Creatively: Use various festive sprinkles to match your holiday theme.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Chip Version: Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a deliciously sweeter twist.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Flavored Frosting: Try adding peppermint extract or almond extract to your frosting for a unique flavor profile.
- Fruit Bliss: Sprinkle chopped dried cranberries or cherries on top of the frosting for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. This helps develop the flavors even more.
2. How can I make my frosting stiffer?
If your frosting is too soft, simply add more powdered sugar a little at a time until you reach your desired thickness.
3. What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute to make dairy-free versions of these bars. Just be aware that it may slightly alter the flavor.
Conclusion
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. With their soft texture, sweet frosting, and festive appearance, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. Not only are they easy to make, but they also bring people together, creating sweet memories along the way. So, gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy these delicious treats that embody the joy of the holidays. Happy baking!
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20-24 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
- Cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- To make the frosting, beat the softened butter, then add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the cooled bars, add sprinkles on top, slice into squares, and serve.