If you’re a fan of sugar cookies but dread the rolling, cutting, and endless batches, these Sugar Cookie Bars are about to change your dessert game. Imagine all the soft, buttery goodness of classic sugar cookies, but in a bar form that’s easier, faster, and just as delicious. Topped with a luscious buttercream frosting, they’re perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you’re craving a sweet treat. Plus, with no need to chill the dough or cut out shapes, this recipe is ideal for busy bakers who want maximum payoff with minimal effort.
I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was looking for a way to simplify my holiday baking. Between the shopping, decorating, and hosting, rolling out dozens of cookies just wasn’t in the cards. These bars were the perfect solution! Not only did they save me time, but they also became an instant hit with my family. There’s something so satisfying about biting into a thick, soft sugar cookie topped with creamy, colorful frosting. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it yourself.
Why You’ll Love These Sugar Cookie Bars
These sugar cookie bars are truly magical, and here’s why:
- Effortless Preparation: No rolling, cutting, or chilling is required. Just mix, spread, and bake.
- Perfect Texture: The cookie base is soft, thick, and chewy—like the best sugar cookie you’ve ever had, but in bar form.
- Customizable Frosting: You can color the buttercream to match any occasion and add sprinkles for extra fun.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love decorating these bars, making them a great project for the whole family.
- Convenient: These bars are easy to transport and stay fresh for days, making them perfect for potlucks, parties, or school events.
Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just want a dessert that feels special without the extra work, these sugar cookie bars are a must-try.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Servings: 24 bars
- Calories per Serving: 240
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cookie Base
- ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) butter, softened: Adds richness and a soft texture.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough perfectly.
- 3 large eggs: Provides structure and helps the bars stay soft.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough.
- 1 tsp baking powder and 1 tsp baking soda: These leavening agents give the bars their slight lift and softness.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 2 tsp cornstarch: Adds softness and helps the bars stay chewy.
Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup butter, softened: The key to smooth, creamy frosting.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweet and perfect for a thick frosting.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds flavor depth.
- 4–8 tbsp milk: Adjust for desired frosting consistency.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness.
- Optional: Food coloring for a festive touch and sprinkles for decoration.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Cookie Base
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving a little overhang for easy removal later.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with its warm, sweet aroma.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until everything is just combined, forming a thick dough.
- Spread in Pan: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan. Use a spatula or your hands to spread it evenly. If the dough sticks to your hands, dampen them slightly with water.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few crumbs.
- Cool Completely: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. This step is essential to prevent the frosting from melting.
Making the Buttercream Frosting
- Beat the Butter: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Adjust Consistency: Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. For a thicker frosting, use less milk; for a smoother, spreadable frosting, use more.
- Add Food Coloring (Optional): If you’d like to add a pop of color, mix in a few drops of food coloring. You can stick to one color or divide the frosting into bowls to create multiple shades.
Assembling the Bars
- Frost the Cookie Base: Once the cookie base has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or butter knife.
- Decorate: Immediately add sprinkles if using. Press them gently into the frosting so they stick.
- Cut and Serve: Lift the cookie bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Place them on a cutting board and slice them into bars of your desired size. Serve at room temperature or chilled for a firmer texture.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookie Bars
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and room-temperature eggs blend more easily, creating a smooth, even dough.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry bars, so pull them out when they’re just set.
- Toast the Sprinkles: For a fun twist, lightly toast sprinkles in the oven for a crunchy topping.
- Lift with Ease: Lining your pan with parchment paper makes it much easier to remove and cut the bars.
- Make Ahead: These bars taste even better the next day! Prepare them the night before to save time.
Recipe Variations
- Almond Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the dough and frosting for a nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix mini chocolate chips into the dough or drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting.
- Citrus Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing twist.
- Seasonal Colors: Adjust the frosting and sprinkle colors to match holidays or special events.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookie bars pair beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages:
- For Kids: Serve with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate nostalgic treat.
- For Adults: Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy snack.
- Dessert Platter: Include these bars on a dessert tray alongside brownies and fruit for a colorful spread.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Storing Leftovers: Place the bars in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, cut the bars into squares and layer them between sheets of wax paper in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQ Section
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Spread the dough in the pan, cover it tightly, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What if I don’t have sprinkles?
No worries! You can top the frosting with colored sugar, chocolate shavings, or even edible glitter.
Conclusion
These Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family gathering, or just because, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone who tries them. I’d love to see how yours turn out—snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me! Happy baking!
Print
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These sugar cookie bars are soft, thick, and topped with a creamy buttercream frosting. With no rolling or chilling required, they’re quick, easy, and perfect for any celebration or casual treat.
Ingredients
- Cookie Base:
- ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4–8 tbsp milk (as needed)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: food coloring, sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar, then mix in eggs and vanilla.
- Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then gradually mix with the wet ingredients to form a thick dough.
- Spread dough evenly into the pan and bake for 18 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely.
- Beat butter for frosting until fluffy, then add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to achieve desired consistency.
- Spread frosting over cooled cookie base, decorate with sprinkles, cut into bars, and serve.
Notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients for the best texture.
- Don’t overbake; bars should be soft in the center.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American