Name: Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 3/4 cup butter, softened; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3 tablespoons red and green jimmy sprinkles; Frosting:; 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter + 2 tablespoons, softened; 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk); 1/8 tsp salt; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

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Introduction to Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

As the holiday season approaches, I can almost taste the joy that fills our home with scrumptious aromas. One of my all-time favorites is the delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars. These bars are not only easy to whip up, but they also embody the warmth of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Trust me, whether you’re a busy mom or a professional, these cookie bars will be your secret weapon to impressing loved ones without the fuss. With a creamy frosting and vibrant sprinkles on top, they capture the essence of Christmas in every sweet bite!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect solution for busy schedules during the holiday season. They come together in just a few minutes, making them a quick and delightful treat. The rich buttery flavor combined with a creamy frosting makes each bite feel like a warm hug. Plus, they’re incredibly flexible, allowing for playful decorations that will keep the kids engaged while baking. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

When it comes to making festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that delicious taste! Below, I’ve lined up everything you’ll need to create these delightful treats. Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with some ingredients; I’ll share a snippet about each one to make it easier for you.

Sugar: The backbone of sweetness, regular sugar gives your bars that delightful sugary taste.
Powdered Sugar: This fine confectioner’s sugar adds a silky texture to the frosting.
Butter: Softened butter is crucial, as it brings richness and helps achieve that chewy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth to your cookie bars.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together while giving the bars a light and airy feel.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent makes the bars rise beautifully, keeping them fluffy and soft.
Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness, enhancing all the flavors.
All-Purpose Flour: The main structure for our cookie bars, it’s essential for that perfect texture.
Sprinkles: These festive red and green gems are great for decoration, adding a pop of color and fun.

For the frosting, you’ll stock up on some more sweet ingredients:

Powdered Sugar: Again, you’ll use powdered sugar for a delightful, creamy frosting.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is a must for another layer of rich flavor.
Heavy Cream or Milk: This helps achieve that velvety consistency; opt for heavy cream for luxury!
Vanilla Extract: Yes, more vanilla! A little extra flavor in the frosting makes a big difference.
Salt: Yes, I promise just a pinch! It helps highlight all those sweet flavors.

If you’re curious about quantities, don’t hesitate to check the bottom of the article for the exact measurements. Happy baking!

How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the heart of the festive fun: making the Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars! I promise, it’s simpler than a holiday shopping list. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be on your way to sweet success!

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

First things first—preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This will ensure your bars bake evenly. While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13 pan and spray it with some cooking spray to keep those delicious bars from sticking. Trust me, no one wants a crumbly mess when it’s time to serve!

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the sugar, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix it on medium speed for about 3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. You want it to feel airy, almost like a cloud!

Next, add in the vanilla extract and eggs. Beat everything until it blends smoothly, scraping down the sides as needed. Now for the dry ingredients: gently mix in the baking powder and salt. Finally, add the all-purpose flour slowly, mixing until just combined. Stir in those cheerful red and green sprinkles—this is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Bake the Bars

Using a spatula or your hands, spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared pan. Make sure it reaches every corner! Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, but keep a close eye on them. You want a soft, chewy texture, not dry cookie bricks, so don’t overbake!

Step 4: Cool the Cookie Bars

Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Patience is key here! Cooling ensures they hold their shape and are ready for a luscious frosting.

Step 5: Make the Buttercream Frosting

While the bars are cooling, let’s whip up our buttercream frosting! In a clean stand mixer, beat the softened butter for about 2 minutes until creamy. Then, slowly add the powdered sugar. It’ll look a bit messy at first, but keep mixing—magic is happening!

Next, pour in the vanilla extract and either heavy cream or milk. If your frosting looks too thick, add a tablespoon more of cream or milk until you get that velvety consistency. Beat it on medium-high for 3-5 minutes to add extra fluffiness. Just a minute on low speed will help pop any air bubbles!

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Once your cookie bars are cooled, it’s time to make them even more tempting! Spread the buttercream frosting evenly over your delicious bars. Let the creativity flow, and sprinkle more festive red and green sprinkles on top. You can never have too much sparkle during the holidays!

Step 7: Cut and Serve

Finally, it’s time for the best part—cutting and serving these delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars! Aim for 24 pieces so everyone gets a sweet slice of joy. Trust me, they won’t last long. Enjoy the festive flavors and the smiles they’ll bring!

Tips for Success

Don’t rush the creaming process; it really lightens the texture of your bars.
Use room temperature ingredients for best results—no one likes a thick batter!
Test your oven temperature to ensure even baking—oven thermostats can be tricky!
Let the bars cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.

Equipment Needed

9×13 Baking Pan: A classic for cookie bars; alternatively, use a large cast-iron skillet.
Stand Mixer: For effortless mixing; a handheld mixer works too.
Spatula: Perfect for spreading the dough and frosting.
Baking Spray: Non-stick cooking spray keeps your bars intact.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy; a kitchen scale can be handy too.

Variations of Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a gluten-free delight.
Flavor Infusion: Add almond extract for a nutty twist, or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus kick.
Decorative Toppings: Swap out sprinkles for crushed peppermint candies or mini chocolate chips for a delightful crunch.
Vegan Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) in place of eggs.
Nutty Variation: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Pair these bars with a cup of hot cocoa topped with mini marshmallows for a cozy treat.
Serve alongside festive fruit platters, such as strawberries or apple slices, for a refreshing contrast.
Present on a decorative holiday platter, garnished with twinkling lights for added cheer.
Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

FAQs about Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

As I’ve baked countless Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars over the years, I’ve gathered a few common questions from festive bakers like you! Let’s tackle them, so you’re all set for your holiday baking adventure!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cookie bars a couple of days in advance. Once cooled, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. Just frost them closer to when you plan to serve for the best look and taste!

How can I store leftover Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
If, by some miracle, you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. This keeps them chewy and delicious for up to a week. You can also freeze them, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, for later enjoyment.

Can I customize the frosting?
Definitely! While I adore the classic buttercream, you can mix in flavors like peppermint extract or cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. Just remember to add a little extra sugar to balance the flavors!

What if my bars turn out too dry?
If your cookie bars come out dry, it may have been overbaked. Make sure to keep a close watch on your oven near the end of the baking time. If you find them dry, serving them with ice cream can save the day!

Can I use alternative sweeteners?
Yes, you can experiment with alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar for a less refined option. Just be aware that it may change the texture slightly, but they’ll still be festive and delicious!

Final Thoughts

Baking Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars isn’t just about creating a delightful treat; it’s about weaving joy into your holiday traditions. The process brings families together, fills the house with sweet aromas, and creates memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone. Each bite is a little piece of festive happiness, reminding us of the love and warmth that comes with this special time of year. Whether you share them with loved ones or savor them yourself, these bars are bound to become a cherished addition to your holiday celebrations. Happy baking!