Sugar Cookie Bars

Making sugar cookies has never been easier than this recipe. These are fluffy and soft with a great butter taste. This is the recipe that I gravitate to when I am asked to make a treat for a party or gathering.

After all, who does not like frosted sugar cookies? What is so perfect about this recipe is that you get an awesome melt in your mouth cookie with just the right amount of sweetness.

Many times I have left the frosting off, just to enjoy the cookie itself. These are basically my lazy days when I want a quick treat without all the work involved.

Again, this is likely the easiest recipe ever. All you have to do is make the dough, spread it and bake it.

Frequently Asked Questions:

            Do I have to add frosting?

Absolutely not! This recipe is extremely versatile allowing you to do anything. There have been many times that I have just sprinkled sprinkles on top of the dough and then baked it.

            Can I leave out the Almond extract?

Of course! Just replace it with vanilla or another flavor if you choose.

            Can I use any color frosting?

Yes! If these are being made for a special occasion, any color works. You could even use plain buttercream or cream cheese frosting.

            Do these need to be refrigerated?

Nope, these can sit on your counter at room temperature. They likely will not last that long anyway.

            Can I freeze these?

You can! They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months as long as they are in an airtight package.

What do you need to make Sugar Cookie Bars

            2 ½ cups flour, sifted and measured

            1 tsp baking powder

            1 tbsp cornstarch

            1 cup granulated sugar

            ½ tsp salt

            1 cup butter, softened to room temperature

            2 eggs at room temperature

            1 ½ tsp vanilla extract

            ½ tsp almond extract

Frosting:

            ½ cup butter at room temperature

            2 ¼ cups confectioner sugar

            2 ½ tbsp heavy cream

            1 tsp vanilla extract

            Food coloring and sprinkles both optional

How to make Sugar Cookie Bars

FIRST STEP:

Preheat the oven to 350*

Cover the bottom of a 9×13 pan with parchment paper, enough so that it is up the sides

SECOND STEP:

In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients and whisk to mix well

In another bowl, combine the butter and the sugar and mix until smooth

a)

b)

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each

a)

b)

c)

d)

Add in the vanilla extract and the almond extract, scrape the sides of the bowl when mixed

Slowly add in the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined, do not over mix

a)

b)

THIRD STEP:

Spread evenly in the prepared pan. I like to put butter on my hands and help to spread the dough evenly

FOURTH STEP:

Bake for 15 minutes, do not overbake

Allow to cool completely

FIFTH STEP:

In a large bowl mix the butter and the Confectioners sugar

Add in the heavy cream, a small amount at a time until  you have the desired consistency

Add food coloring if wanted

SIXTH STEP:

Spread the frosting evenly over the bars and immediately sprinkle with the sprinkle if using

Cover with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.

a)

b)

c)

d)

YAY!

Enjoy!

YUM!