Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Christmas brings a magical air, filled with cozy nights, twinkling lights, and, of course, delicious treats. One treat that never fails to spread joy is Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars. These sweet squares merge the beloved flavors of sugar cookies with the ease of a bar cookie, making them perfect for any festive gathering. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy dessert topped with rich, creamy frosting and colorful sprinkles—now that’s the holiday spirit! You’ll find that this recipe captures all the delightful nostalgia of traditional sugar cookies without the hassle of rolling and cutting out shapes. So, gather your ingredients, put on some holiday tunes, and let’s whip up some deliciousness together!

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Why This Recipe Works

Understanding why this recipe stands out is key. Cookie bars, unlike traditional cookies, combine the charm of cookies with a convenient, sliceable format. They create a beautiful soft center and chewy edges, all while being incredibly easy to make. The secret? The balance of ingredients matters greatly. Using the right amount of flour, sugar, and fat ensures a cookie that’s not too dense, nor too crumbly.

Not to mention, the rich buttercream frosting is fundamental. It complements the cookie base beautifully, adding sweetness and a creamy texture. This frosting isn’t just an afterthought. It completes the bars by providing that extra layer of flavor that everyone loves. So, combining thoughtful ingredients and delightful toppings results in a treat that truly shines during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

You’ll adore these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars for many reasons. First, they’re fantastic for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges; no one can resist the festive flavors! Since they’re easy to make—even for beginner bakers—everyone can get involved. Kids love helping in the kitchen, especially when it means spreading frosting and sprinkling festive decorations.

The texture? Think soft and chewy, melting in your mouth with every bite. Each bar is dressed up with colorful sprinkles that scream holiday cheer. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them at home with family, they add sweetness to any occasion.

Ingredients

Before jumping into the preparation, gather these ingredients:

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles or holiday chips
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened (for frosting)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 3-4 Tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
• Additional holiday sprinkles or chips for topping

Having everything ready to go makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Preparing Your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Prepping the Baking Dish

First things first, let’s prep the baking dish. Take a 9×13-inch baking dish, and line it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your cookie bars come out easily without leaving half behind. Plus, it makes clean-up a breeze!

Mixing the Cookie Batter

Now, it’s time to get going! Preheat the oven to 375°F. While it’s heating up, grab a large bowl and an electric mixer. Combine the softened butter and sugar, mixing until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, helping it rise and creating that delightful texture.

Adding Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is well blended before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract for a warm and inviting flavor. This creates a smooth base that’s begging for more ingredients.

Combining Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. It’s best to mix until a dough forms—don’t worry if it looks a bit crumbly at first; that’s normal. This mixture will come together beautifully when you add the final dry ingredients.

Spreading the Cookie Dough

Once the dough is ready, spread it evenly into your prepared baking dish. An offset spatula works wonders here, helping you achieve a level surface for uniform baking.

Baking the Cookie Bars

Now, it’s baking time! Place the dish in the oven and bake the cookie bars for 12-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; they’re done when they’re puffed up and lightly golden brown around the edges. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before moving on—this step ensures the bars firm up for easy slicing.

Making the Buttercream Frosting

While the cookie bars cool, let’s whip up some frosting. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with your electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until it’s fluffy and light. It’s a fun transformation to witness!

Adding Milk and Vanilla to Frosting

Add in the milk and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. If you find it too thick, add a splash more milk until you achieve your desired texture.

Frosting the Cookie Bars

With the bars cooled and the frosting ready, it’s time to spread that buttery goodness evenly over the top. Cover the surface well—every bite should have that delicious frosting!

Topping with Sprinkles

Finally, sprinkle the top with festive holiday sprinkles or chips for that cheerful finish. It adds color and a touch of fun, making each slice look as joyful as it tastes.

Serving Suggestions

Cut the cookie bars into squares and present them on a festive platter. They pair beautifully with hot cocoa or a warm cup of spiced tea. Imagine enjoying a cozy evening, surrounded by loved ones, with these treats in hand—pure bliss!

Tips for Success

A few tips can help you make these bars even better. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing—this helps everything come together. Another great tip? Don’t overbake! Check for doneness around the 12-minute mark to maintain that soft and chewy texture we all crave.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with variations! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor that adds an interesting twist. If you’re in the mood for something minty, just a hint of peppermint extract in the frosting can elevate these bars to a fantastic holiday treat.

Storage Tips

Once you’re done baking, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Sharing is caring, but if you have more than you can eat, freeze the cut bars in a single layer. Transferring them to an airtight container will keep them fresh for up to three months.

FAQs

Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Yes, margarine can be used, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Q: How thick should the cookie bars be?
A: Aim for a thickness of about 1 inch before baking for optimal chewiness.

Q: Can I make these cookies in advance?
A: Absolutely! These can be made a few days in advance and stored properly.

Q: Can I use gluten-free flour?
A: Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.

Q: What is the best way to slice cookie bars?
A: Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean cuts and prevent crumbling.

These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are sure to become a holiday favorite, offering a delightful blend of sweetness, texture, and festive cheer. Enjoy making this easy recipe with loved ones, creating memories to cherish around the season! Happy baking!

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