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As the holiday season unfolds and twinkling lights adorn our homes, I can't help but think of the sweet moments that fill the air—like the delightful aroma of warm, freshly baked Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars wafting from the kitchen. These bars have become a cherished tradition in my home, blending the festive spirit with the comfort of homemade treats. With their soft, chewy texture and creamy frosting, they are a crowd-pleaser that never fails to bring smiles to family gatherings and holiday parties.
You might be surprised at how easy they are to whip up, making them perfect for even the busiest of holiday schedules. Whether you're hosting a get-together or simply craving a cozy, sweet indulgence, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly magical. So, roll up your sleeves, grab those festive sprinkles, and let's spread some holiday cheer with these irresistible Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars!
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Why are Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars a must-try?
Festive and Fun: These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars bring a burst of holiday cheer with their vibrant sprinkles and creamy frosting—a delightful treat for any festive gathering.
Quick and Easy: No elaborate techniques are required! With only a few simple steps, you can have these tasty bars ready in no time.
Soft Texture: Expect an irresistible soft and chewy bite that melts in your mouth, making them the perfect indulgence for all ages.
Versatile Occasions: Customize with different sprinkles to fit any holiday or celebration! Check out the joy of chocolate chip cookie bars for another delicious option.
Crowd-Pleaser: With their delightful sweetness, they're guaranteed to be a hit at your holiday parties, creating joyous memories with every bite.
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients
Get ready to bake something delicious!
For the Sugar Cookie Bars
- Salted Butter – Softened well, provides flavor and structure. Note: Ensure butter is softened, not melted.
- Sugar – Sweetness and a lovely texture.
- Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm, delightful flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure. Note: Avoid overmeasuring flour; use the spoon and level method.
- Baking Powder – Acts as the leavening agent to make them fluffy.
- Festive Sprinkles – Adds a pop of color and fun visuals.
For the Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – The primary sweetener, giving the frosting its delightful sweetness.
- Salted Butter – Softened, this adds creaminess and flavor to the frosting.
- Cream Cheese – Adds a tangy twist and creaminess to the frosting.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.
- Milk – Adjusts the frosting consistency for smooth spreading.
- Additional Sprinkles – For garnishing and added appeal.
You’ll find the full measurements in the recipe card below.
How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars bake evenly and come out perfectly!
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until fluffy and light in color. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until combined and smooth. This adds a delicious, warm flavor to your bars.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and baking powder to the wet mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms. Be careful not to overmix!
- Fold in Sprinkles: Gently mix in the festive sprinkles, allowing them to fold into the dough without breaking.
- Spread and Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting to ensure a smooth finish.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a new bowl, blend powdered sugar, softened butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Adjust with more milk if necessary for the perfect consistency.
- Frost and Decorate: Once the bars are cool, spread the frosting generously on top and feel free to add additional sprinkles for that festive touch.
- Cut and Serve: Slice the bars into squares, and they're ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them right away or let the frosting set for a firmer texture.
Optional: Serve with a warm mug of cocoa for a cozy holiday treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Variations
Customize your delicious cookies bars and surprise your loved ones with unique twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
- Choco-Chip Delight: Elevate with a sprinkle of chocolate chips in the dough for an irresistibly gooey contrast to the sugar base. The sweetest fusion of flavors awaits!
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture and a nutty boost that complements the sweetness. You'll love the delightful crunch!
- Holiday Spice: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy twist that will envelop your kitchen in cozy, festive aromas.
- Cream Cheese Fun: Swap half the powdered sugar in the frosting with sweetened cream cheese for a richer, tangy flavor that enhances the overall experience.
- Minty Fresh: Blend in a few drops of peppermint extract into the frosting for a refreshing seasonal flavor that will transport you to holiday bliss.
- Fruit Infusion: Fold in finely chopped dried cranberries or cherries into the dough to add tangy bursts of flavor and a splash of color to your bars.
- Colorful Layers: Divide the batter into sections and color each with food dye for vibrant, rainbow layers before baking—a lovely surprise when served!
What to Serve with Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
The holiday cheer of Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars deserves companions that harmonize with their sweet and festive flavor.
- Warm Milk: A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of the bars, soothing your taste buds while providing a comforting experience.
- Hot Cocoa: Rich, velvety hot cocoa topped with marshmallows adds a deliciously indulgent touch, perfect for cozy gatherings by the fire.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the bars, providing a lighter option that adds color to your dessert table.
- Coffee: Brewed coffee, especially flavored varieties, creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Mini Cheesecakes: These creamy, rich desserts complement the soft texture of the cookie bars and elevate your holiday spread impressively.
- Holiday Punch: A festive, fruity punch brings a splash of color and fun, making every gathering feel extra special while harmonizing with the flavors.
- Nutmeg Cookies: Spiced nutmeg cookies echo the warmth of holiday flavors, making for a delightful dessert pairing that brings joy with every bite.
- Peppermint Bark: The cool, refreshing crunch of peppermint bark beautifully complements the sweetness, adding a festive twist to your dessert selection.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperature, adding creaminess that pairs perfectly with the bars.
Expert Tips for Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
• Perfect Butter Temperature: Use softened butter (not melted) for the best texture and flavor in your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined when adding flour—overmixing can lead to tough bars.
• Correct Measuring: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour accurately, preventing crumbly dough.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bars while baking; ovens vary, and the perfect bake may differ slightly.
• Frost When Cool: Make sure the bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This helps preserve their soft texture and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the cookie bars, either frosted or unfrosted, by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen bars, thaw them overnight in the fridge. For a warm treat, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use for the sugar cookie bars?
Use salted butter that is softened well, not melted. This helps provide the perfect flavor and structure for your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
How should I store the sugar cookie bars, and how long do they last?
You can store these bars at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Make sure they're kept in an airtight container to maintain their divine softness!
Can I freeze the Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze the bars with or without frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw overnight in the fridge. For that fresh-baked taste, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm them up.
What if my sugar cookie dough is too crumbly?
No worries! If your dough is too crumbly, simply add milk a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. This should make it easier to spread into your baking pan. Keep mixing gently to avoid overworking the dough.
Can I customize the sprinkles used in the recipe?
Very much! You can vary the sprinkles based on the festive occasion. For instance, use heart-shaped sprinkles for Valentine's Day or red, white, and blue sprinkles for Independence Day. Feel free to let your creativity shine through!
Are there any allergy considerations with these sugar cookie bars?
Yes! Since the recipe contains gluten (from all-purpose flour), dairy (in butter and cream cheese), and eggs, it’s not suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. If you need alternatives, consider using gluten-free flour and dairy substitutes for the frosting!
Irresistibly Soft Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars You'll Love
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
Delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars that bring holiday cheer and sweet moments to your gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Salted Butter
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1 Large Egg
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
- ½ cup Festive Sprinkles
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar
- ½ cup Salted Butter
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2-4 tablespoons Milk
- ½ cup Additional Sprinkles
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars bake evenly and come out perfectly!
-
Prepare the Pan: Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
-
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until fluffy and light in color. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
-
Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until combined and smooth. This adds a delicious, warm flavor to your bars.
-
Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and baking powder to the wet mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms. Be careful not to overmix!
-
Fold in Sprinkles: Gently mix in the festive sprinkles, allowing them to fold into the dough without breaking.
-
Spread and Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
-
Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting to ensure a smooth finish.
-
Prepare the Frosting: In a new bowl, blend powdered sugar, softened butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Adjust with more milk if necessary for the perfect consistency.
-
Frost and Decorate: Once the bars are cool, spread the frosting generously on top and feel free to add additional sprinkles for that festive touch.
-
Cut and Serve: Slice the bars into squares, and they're ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them right away or let the frosting set for a firmer texture.
Notes
- Perfect Butter Temperature: Use softened butter (not melted) for the best texture and flavor in your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined when adding flour—overmixing can lead to tough bars.
- Correct Measuring: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour accurately, preventing crumbly dough.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bars while baking; ovens vary, and the perfect bake may differ slightly.
- Frost When Cool: Make sure the bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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