King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars

this RECIPE

Introduction to King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars

Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re anything like me, life is a whirlwind of busy days and endless to-do lists. That’s why I am thrilled to share my recipe for King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars. These vibrant treats are inspired by the classic King Cake and offer both delight and ease. They’re perfect for when you need a quick solution for gatherings or want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation!

Why You’ll Love This King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars

These King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars are a total game-changer for busy moms and professionals. They come together quickly, so you can whip them up in no time. The taste? Absolutely divine! With the perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of cinnamon, every bite transports you to a festive celebration. Plus, their vibrant colors can brighten any dessert table, making them a delightful treat for all ages!

Ingredients for King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars

Let’s gather everything you need to create these sensational King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars! Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients:

• Unsalted butter: The base of our cookies, it adds richness and flavor.
• Granulated sugar: This is key for sweetness and achieving that lovely, crispy edge.
• Eggs: They bind everything together while also contributing to a soft texture.
• Vanilla extract: A staple in baking, this will amplify the sweetness and aroma.
• Almond extract: A little goes a long way in providing a unique and delightful twist.
• All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of our cookie bars, providing structure.
• Baking powder: It helps the bars rise, creating a light and fluffy texture.
• Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• Ground cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and a subtle complexity to the bars.
• Lemon zest: It infuses a bright freshness that lifts the flavors beautifully.
• Powdered sugar: We’ll use this for the icing, giving it that signature sweet finish.
• Milk: Helps to thin the icing to the perfect spreading consistency.
• Purple, green, and gold sanding sugar: These vibrant colors are just like Mardi Gras! They’ll give your bars that festive flair.

For exact measurements, be sure to check at the bottom of the article. You can print them out for easy access while baking!

How to Make King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Let’s start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This is crucial to ensure your King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars bake evenly. While that’s happening, line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will help you easily lift out the bars later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the butter, which will help the bars rise beautifully. Take your time to get it right!

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Now, it’s time to add some wet ingredients. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest. The aroma will be simply irresistible!

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This dry mix will make sure all the leavening and flavor ingredients are evenly distributed, laying the foundation for the perfect texture in your cookie bars.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Remember, overmixing can lead to tough bars. So, gently fold until the flour disappears, and you have a smooth dough ready to shine!

Step 6: Spread and Bake

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Make sure it reaches all corners for even baking. Pop it into the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the edges should be lightly golden while the center is set but still soft.

Step 7: Cool and Prepare Icing

Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the icing by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. This easy icing is what will take your King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars to a whole new level!

Step 8: Decorate

Finally, spread the prepared icing over the cooled cookie base. Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the vibrant purple, green, and gold sanding sugar over the icing. Allow the icing to set for about 30 minutes before slicing into those delightful bars. Enjoy the festivity!

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the parchment paper! It makes removal a breeze.
• Make sure your butter is softened; this helps achieve that light texture.
• Cool the bars completely before icing for a smoother finish.
• Customize the sprinkle patterns for unique designs and presentation.
• For even baking, rotate the pan halfway through the baking time.

Equipment Needed

• Baking pan (9×13 inches) – If you don’t have this size, an 11×7 inch pan works too.
• Mixing bowls – A large one for wet ingredients and a medium one for dry.
• Whisk or electric mixer – Handy for creaming butter and sugar.
• Spatula – Perfect for spreading that delicious icing.
• Parchment paper – This is a must for easy release; foil can substitute but may stick.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy a gluten-free version of these festive bars!
• Add Flavor: Experiment by adding different extracts like coconut or orange for a unique twist on taste.
• Switch Up the Frosting: Replace the icing with a cream cheese frosting for added richness and tang.
• Fruit Additions: Fold in some mini chocolate chips or diced fruits like strawberries for additional flavor and texture!
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
• Serve alongside fresh fruit, like strawberries or citrus slices, to balance the sweetness.
• For a festive touch, arrange bars on a colorful platter decorated with Mardi Gras beads.

FAQs about King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars

Can I make King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container after they’ve cooled and been iced. They taste just as delicious the next day—if they last that long!

How should I store leftover bars?
To keep your King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can enjoy them for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them without icing for up to three months!

What if I don’t have all the ingredients on hand?
No problem! You can substitute ingredients based on what you have. For example, if you’re short on almond extract, you can use additional vanilla extract or even skip it altogether. Just remember to adjust as needed to maintain flavor balance!

Can I use different colors for the sanding sugar?
Of course! While purple, green, and gold are traditional colors for King Cake, feel free to get creative. You can choose any colors that match your occasion, or even seasonal themes.

Why are my cookie bars dense?
Density can happen if the dough is overmixed or if they were overbaked. Be sure to mix just until combined and check for doneness a minute or two early. You want them soft in the center for that perfect, chewy texture!

Final Thoughts

These King Cake Sugar Cookie Bars are more than just a delicious treat; they’re an experience waiting to happen! Picture the joy they’ll bring to your family gatherings or cozy weekday evenings. The vibrant colors and sweet aroma evoke celebrations, making every bite a reminder of cherished moments. As a home cook, I adore watching smiles light up when these bars make an appearance. They’re a little taste of festivity you can whip up with ease, perfect for busy days or special occasions. Dive into this recipe, and let the happiness unfold in your kitchen!

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