Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookie Bars

There is something nostalgic about sugar cookies—their soft, buttery texture and subtle sweetness make them a classic favorite. But let’s be honest, rolling out dough, cutting shapes, and individually frosting cookies can be time-consuming. That’s where Sugar Cookie Bars come in!

These bars give you all the flavor of traditional sugar cookies without the extra work. Perfectly soft, chewy, and topped with a luscious frosting, they are an excellent treat for birthdays, holidays, or just because you’re craving something sweet. The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy, making it perfect for beginners looking to build their baking confidence.

Why This Recipe is Special

Unlike regular sugar cookies, which require chilling and rolling, these cookie bars come together in one baking dish—no extra hassle. The secret ingredient, cream cheese, adds a rich flavor and keeps the bars moist and tender. Plus, with a simple buttercream frosting and colorful sprinkles, they look just as festive as traditional sugar cookies without all the effort.

Ingredients and Their Role

• Flour – The structure of the cookie bars. All-purpose flour works best, but whole wheat flour can be used for a slightly nutty flavor.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a soft texture.
• Butter – Provides richness and enhances flavor. Use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels.
• Vanilla and Almond Extract – These add depth and that signature sugar cookie taste. Almond extract gives a subtle nuttiness, but you can omit it if needed.
• Egg – Helps bind the dough and gives it structure.
• Cream Cheese – The secret to soft, slightly tangy bars that stay moist. Full-fat works best, but low-fat is an option.
• Baking Powder – Helps the bars rise slightly and stay light.
• Powdered Sugar – The main ingredient for the frosting, providing a smooth, sweet finish.
• Milk – Used to adjust the frosting’s consistency.
• Sprinkles – Completely optional but add a fun, decorative touch.

Substitutions:

• Swap almond extract for more vanilla if you prefer a classic sugar cookie taste.
• Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This helps create a soft texture.

Step 3: Add the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and softened cream cheese to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 4: Slowly add the flour and baking powder, mixing just until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bars dense.

Step 5: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.

Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. The center should be set but still soft. Let the bars cool completely before frosting.

Step 7: While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat together butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk (for a thinner frosting) or powdered sugar (for a thicker frosting).

Step 8: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. Decorate with sprinkles and cut into squares before serving. Enjoy!

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Don’t overmix the dough. Overworking it can make the bars tough instead of soft.
• Use room-temperature ingredients. This helps everything blend evenly.
• Check for doneness by touching the center. It should be set but not too firm. If it jiggles, bake for a few more minutes.
• For cleaner cuts, chill the bars before slicing. This prevents the frosting from smearing.
• If your frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

These sugar cookie bars are already perfect as-is, but you can take them to the next level by pairing them with:

• A hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• A drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

Storage Tips:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to a week for longer freshness.
• Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 3 months. Simply thaw, frost, and serve!

Try It and Share Your Experience!

Baking should be fun, not stressful. This sugar cookie bar recipe is perfect for beginners, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavor. If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment below and share your photos—let’s bake together.

By following these simple steps, you’ll create a dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to make—without the hassle. Happy baking!

FAQ About Sugar Cookie Bars

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