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Sugar Cookie Bars

Sugar Cookie Bars are soft, frosted treats that evoke childhood warmth and nostalgia, perfect for sharing and gifting.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Base
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Gives structure without heaviness; swap half for whole wheat pastry flour for a slightly nutty note.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Lifts the bars just enough for tender crumb.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened The star of the buttery flavor; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar Classic sweetness; coconut sugar works for a deeper caramel note.
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature Binds and enriches.
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract For that warm, cookie-like aroma; try almond extract for a twist.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt Adds moisture and tenderness; substitute buttermilk for a tangy lift.
For the Frosting
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk, as needed for spreading
  • Sprinkles or flaky sea salt for topping Optional

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the bowl and add the egg and vanilla, beating until combined.
  4. Fold in the dry ingredients alternately with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry mix, until just combined.
  5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan with a spatula. Smooth the top so the bars bake evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake.
  2. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 20 minutes.
Frosting
  1. While cooling, whip the frosting ingredients until smooth and spreadable.
  2. Spread the frosting in an even layer over the cooled bars and add sprinkles if desired.
  3. Chill briefly to set the frosting, slice into squares, and serve.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. For freezing, wrap tightly and freeze unfrosted bars for up to 3 months.