Irresistibly Soft Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars You’ll Love

Did you know that baking a festive treat can turn any ordinary day into a joyful celebration? As the holiday season approaches, I'm here to share a recipe that'll bring that extra cheer to your home: Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars. These delightful bars combine the classic flavors of sugar cookies with a rich, creamy frosting that’s perfect for sharing, or hoarding for yourself!

What sets these bars apart is their ease of preparation—no intricate cookie-cutting required! They are also a total crowd-pleaser, ensuring that there’s something sweet for everyone at your holiday gatherings. Imagine cutting into a soft, chewy bar topped with a luscious frosting and an extra sprinkle of festive joy.

These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are not just a treat; they're a wonderful way to bring family and friends together, creating lasting memories around the dessert table. So, who’s ready to dive into this deliciously simple holiday treat? Keep reading to discover just how easy it is to whip up a batch that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds!

 

Why are Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars a must-try?

Irresistible Combination: These bars combine the classic appeal of sugar cookies with a creamy, dreamy frosting, making them the perfect holiday treat.

Effortless Preparation: Forget about intricate cookie-cutting! These bars come together quickly, making them ideal for busy bakers.

Festive Delight: Adorned with colorful sprinkles, they are not just delicious but add a cheerful touch to any gathering.

Crowd-Pleasing: Guaranteed to appeal to both kids and adults, these bars are a sweet solution for holiday parties.

Memory-Making: Whipping up these treats is a fantastic way to create cherished moments with loved ones during the festive season.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress with these delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars!

Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookie Bars
• Salted Butter – Adds flavor and structure; ensure it's softened, not melted.
• Sugar – Sweetens and aids in browning and texture.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor of the bars.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; avoid over-measuring, using a spoon-and-scoop method if no kitchen scale is available.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a nice rise.
• Festive Sprinkles – Increases visual appeal and adds a festive flavor to the bars.

For the Frosting
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a delightful finish.
• Salted Butter – Adds flavor and structure to the frosting; ensure it's softened.
• Cream Cheese – Provides a tangy, creamy texture to the frosting.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely vanilla flavor to the frosting.
• Milk – Adjusts the frosting's consistency to your liking.
• Additional Sprinkles – Perfect for topping and enhancing visual appeal on the frosted bars.

These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are not just delicious; they’re the perfect festive treat that brings everyone together, so gather your ingredients and let the holiday baking begin!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars bake evenly and release easily once they are done. The lining prevents sticking, making it easier to cut the bars later.

Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened salted butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This creaming process incorporates air into the batter, giving your bars a soft texture. With the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, the anticipation will build as you prepare the foundation for these delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.

Step 3
Next, add in the large egg and the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat these ingredients together until they are well combined and the batter is smooth. The egg not only binds everything together but also adds moisture. You’ll see the mixture taking on a richer color as the vanilla lends its fragrance to the blend.

Step 4
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, mixing until a thick dough forms. This will take about 2-3 minutes of gentle stirring to avoid overworking the dough. The right consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape without being crumbly. If the dough seems too dry, add a splash of milk to help it come together.

Step 5
Once your dough is ready, gently fold in the festive sprinkles with a spatula. This will add vibrant colors to your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars and a fun texture. Be careful not to overmix, as you want those sprinkles to remain intact, creating little pockets of joy in each bite of the finished bars.

Step 6
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring that it reaches the corners for consistent baking. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create a smooth surface. As you do this, you’ll feel the soft and pliable dough, which promises a deliciously chewy end product once baked.

Step 7
Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Keep an eye on them; you want the top to be just slightly puffed and not jiggly. The sweet aroma filling your kitchen will be a sure sign that delicious Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are on their way.

Step 8
Once baked, remove the cookie bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time is essential for the bars to set properly, resulting in a firm yet soft texture perfect for cutting.

Step 9
While your sugar cookie bars are cooling, prepare the frosting by blending powdered sugar, softened butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and just enough milk to achieve a creamy consistency. Use a hand mixer to ensure all ingredients combine smoothly, resulting in a fluffy frosting that will elevate your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.

Step 10
Once the bars are fully cooled, generously spread your creamy frosting over the top using a spatula. The thick layer of frosting adds an indulgent richness and creates a festive appearance. The soft texture of the frosting will complement the chewy base perfectly, making each bite heavenly.

Step 11
To finish, sprinkle additional festive sprinkles on top of the frosted bars, ensuring every piece looks joyful and inviting. These sprinkles not only add color but also a fun crunch, enhancing the visual appeal of your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, making them perfect for any festive occasion.

Step 12
Finally, cut the cooled, frosted bars into squares and serve immediately, or allow the frosting to set for a firmer texture. As you savor each bite, you'll experience the delightful combination of soft cookie and creamy frosting, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying by yourself!

What to Serve with Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?

Indulge in the sweet embrace of festive flavors as you create a delightful holiday spread that complements your cookie bars.

• Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, this classic drink will enhance the sugary sweetness and provide a cozy pairing for your bars.
• Peppermint Bark: The crunchy, minty layers add a refreshing contrast to the soft texture of the cookie bars, making for an exhilarating combination.
• Christmas Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings brightness and freshness that cuts through the sweetness, balancing each delicious bite.
• Spiced Chai Latte: With its warm spices, the aromatic chai elevates the flavors of the cookie bars while providing a comforting touch on cold winter days.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight on the side harmonizes beautifully with the soft, chewy bars, creating a delightful melty experience.
• Gingerbread Cookies: For a classic holiday twist, serve alongside these spiced treats to enhance the festive spirit and delight every palate.

These pairings will take your holiday dessert table to the next level!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for busy holiday bakers who want to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the cookie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake the bars, allow them to cool completely, and then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil before refrigerating. For the frosting, it can be made 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, spread the chilled frosting over the cookie bars and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before cutting. This ensures your bars are just as delicious and festive as if they were made fresh!

Expert Tips for Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Measuring Flour: Avoid overpacking your flour by using the spoon-and-scoop method. Accurate measurements ensure your bars are soft, not crumbly.

Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too crumbly, add milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired texture for your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.

Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting. This helps the frosting set properly and makes for easier cutting.

Storage Solutions: Refrigerate any leftovers for freshness, or freeze them for later enjoyment—perfect for unexpected holiday guests.

Frosting Tips: Use soft butter and cream cheese for a fluffy frosting that spreads easily over the baked bars, ensuring a smooth finish every time.

Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Variations

Mix up your festive treat with these delightful twists that cater to every taste and dietary preference!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a similar texture and taste.
• Vegan: Use coconut oil instead of butter, a flax egg, and plant-based cream cheese for a tasty vegan version.
• Chocolate Chip: Add 1 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough for an extra chocolatey surprise in each bite.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
• Minty Fresh: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract into the frosting for a refreshing seasonal twist.
• Citrus Zing: Mix in the zest of one orange or lemon to the cookie dough for a bright, citrusy flavor that sings holidays.
• Coconut Bliss: Add shredded coconut to the dough or use coconut cream in the frosting for a tropical vibe.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon or ginger to the dough for a warm, spicy flavor that evokes holiday memories.

Feel free to get creative and let your taste buds lead the way in making these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars uniquely yours!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and delicious without refrigeration.

Fridge: For extended freshness, place the bars in the refrigerator for up to a week. Ensure they are sealed well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: You can freeze the un-frosted cookies or frosted bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars warm, briefly microwave a portion for about 10-15 seconds. This revives their delightful softness, making them irresistible again!

Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right butter for the Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! The key is to use salted butter that is softened, not melted. This ensures a rich flavor and the right texture for your cookie bars. If you’re using unsalted butter, just add a pinch of salt to the recipe to keep the balance.

How should I store my Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring they remain sealed to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the un-frosted or frosted bars tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They will stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, microwave a piece for 10-15 seconds.

What if my dough feels too crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly, it may be that too much flour has been added. Try adding milk one tablespoon at a time until it comes together. You can also use the spoon-and-scoop method to measure flour accurately.

Can I make these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars nut-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is already nut-free as it doesn't call for any nut ingredients. However, be sure to check your other ingredients (like butter or cream cheese) for any potential cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.

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