When I think of Christmas, my mind immediately drifts back to the bustling kitchen of my childhood home in Chicago. The air was always thick with the scent of vanilla and sugar, as my babcia and I would roll out dough for our favorite holiday treats. This year, I decided to put a modern twist on a classic family favorite: Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars. These bars are not only a delight to make but also a joy to share with family and friends. They capture the essence of the holidays with their soft, buttery texture and festive sprinkles, making them a staple in our holiday celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are everything you love about traditional sugar cookies but in a convenient bar form. They are incredibly easy to make, saving you the time and effort of rolling and cutting individual cookies. The bars are soft, chewy, and topped with a creamy frosting that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, they are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a homemade gift. The recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of Christmas magic.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup festive sprinkles
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the sprinkles gently, being careful not to overmix.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cookie bars and top with additional sprinkles.
- Cut into squares and serve.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
To ensure your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars turn out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for both the cookie dough and frosting.
- Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added, as this can lead to tough bars.
- Use parchment paper to line your baking pan for easy removal and clean-up.
- For a more pronounced almond flavor, increase the almond extract to 1 teaspoon.
- If you prefer a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
Variations and Substitutions
These bars are wonderfully versatile, and you can easily adapt them to suit your preferences:
- For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- To make the bars dairy-free, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a non-dairy milk in the frosting.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced holiday twist.
- Experiment with different extracts, such as peppermint or lemon, for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are delightful on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate your serving experience:
- Pair the bars with a hot cup of cocoa or spiced apple cider for a cozy treat.
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Package them in festive tins or boxes for a homemade holiday gift.
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
How do I store leftover bars?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture. If using margarine, ensure it is at room temperature for best results.
Final Thoughts
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are more than just a dessert; they are a cherished tradition in our home. I hope they bring as much joy to your holiday season as they do to ours. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or indulging in a sweet moment for yourself, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Remember, the best ingredient in any recipe is love, so sprinkle it generously!
👉 I hope you loved making these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars—they’re like a sweet hug from the holiday season! If you’re in the mood for more festive treats, check out my recipes for Gingerbread Men, Peppermint Bark, or Cranberry Orange Bread. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
Main Course · American · Medium
How to Make the Best Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Soft, chewy sugar cookie bars topped with creamy frosting and festive sprinkles, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the sprinkles gently, being careful not to overmix.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.