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sugar cookie bars recipe recipe

Chewy Sugar Cookie Bars with Soft Frosted Layers

Emma F., smiling female cake chef wearing a pastel pink apron in a cozy kitchenEmma F.
These sugar cookie bars are a delightful treat with chewy centers and soft frosted layers.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking pan greased
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Frosting

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan and set aside.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Frosting

  • In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, beating until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract.
  • Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar if desired.

Serving

  • Cut the frosted bars into squares or rectangles and serve.

Storage

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for smooth mixing. Ingredient Substitutions: Use almond extract for a nutty flavor. How to Serve: Pair with a cold glass of milk or hot coffee. Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Make-Ahead Tips: Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months, then thaw and frost before serving.
Keyword easy cookie bars, frosted sugar cookie bars, sugar cookie bars recipe