Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars: Creamy, Frosted Indulgence!

Sensory-Rich Introduction with Immediate Craving

Imagine a warm kitchen filled with the inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies; the aroma dances through the air, wrapping you in a festive embrace. These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars capture the essence of holiday cheer in every bite—soft, buttery, and delightfully sweet, topped with a luscious layer of creamy frosting adorned with vibrant red and green sprinkles. This treat is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the season, bringing together family and friends as laughter and deliciousness fill the room. As we gather around the table for holiday parties, potlucks, or cozy movie nights, these bars become the highlight, a sweet token of our shared joy and traditions.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

• Texture Contrast: Each bar boasts a soft, chewy center with a creamy, smooth frosting, providing a delightful contrast that makes every bite divine.
• Flavor Balance: With just the right mix of sweetness and richness from butter and vanilla, the flavors blend beautifully, leaving you craving more.
• Versatility: These bars can adapt to any occasion—swap in colors and decorations for birthdays, graduations, or even Valentine’s Day.
• Ease of Preparation: Forget about rolling dough; with just a simple mixing process and one baking pan, making these bars is wonderfully straightforward.
• Universal Appeal: Loved by kids and adults alike, their festive appearance and delicious taste make these bars a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Essential Tools & Preparation Strategy

• Stand Mixer: Essential for achieving airy and well-blended dough and frosting.
• 9×13 Baking Pan: Perfect size for baking cookie bars that will hold together while being sliced.
• Spatula: Useful for spreading the cookie dough evenly in the pan and applying frosting later.
• Parchment Paper: Use to line the baking pan for easy removal and cleanup.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy in measuring ingredients ensures the perfect texture and flavor.
• Cooling Rack: Important for letting the bars cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
• Sifter: Handy for sifting powdered sugar for a smoother frosting.
• Offset Spatula or Knife: Ideal for spreading frosting evenly over the bars without tearing them.

Ingredients & Their Roles in This Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Base Ingredients:

• Sugar (3/4 cup): Provides sweetness and contributes to the cookie bar’s structure.
• Powdered Sugar (1/4 cup): Adds extra sweetness and helps to create a fine crumb.
• Butter (3/4 cup + 1/2 cup for frosting): Creates richness and tenderness in both the bars and the frosting.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp + 1 1/2 tsp for frosting): Infuses the bars with iconic flavor that enhances sweetness.
• Eggs (2 large): Binds the ingredients and gives structure to the cookie bars.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp): Acts as a leavening agent for a fluffy texture.
• Salt (1/2 tsp + 1/8 tsp for frosting): Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups): The main structural component of the bars.

Frosting Ingredients:

• Powdered Sugar (2 1/4 cups): Helps create a rich, sweet frosting texture.
• Heavy Cream or Milk (3-4 tbsp): Adjusts the consistency of the frosting to preference.
• Unsalted Butter + Salt: Keeps the frosting creamy and adds flavor without overwhelming sweetness.

Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter and almond or oat milk in the frosting.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×13 pan by spraying with cooking spray or lining with parchment paper.
2. Cream together sugar, powdered sugar, and 3/4 cup softened butter in a stand mixer for approximately 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Add in vanilla extract and eggs; beat until smooth, and scrape down the sides if necessary.
4. Mix in baking powder and salt, then gradually add the flour until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the red and green sprinkles using a spatula.
6. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 12-14 minutes; do not overbake.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack before adding frosting.
8. Make the frosting: Beat 1/2 cup softened butter for 2 minutes until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream, adjusting for consistency.
9. Spread the frosting evenly over cooled bars and decorate with more sprinkles. Cut into 24 pieces.

Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips for Flawless Results

• Make-ahead instructions: The cookie bars can be made a day in advance; store them covered at room temperature.
• Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to five days or refrigerate for extended freshness.
• Equipment recommendations: A quality stand mixer is invaluable; a hand mixer can also work but may require extra effort.
• Customization options: Experiment with flavored extracts or different colored and shaped sprinkles for various occasions.

Avoid These Common Cooking Mistakes

• Overmixing the dough: Can lead to tough bars; mix until just combined.
• Underbaking: Results in gooey centers; check at 12 minutes for doneness.
• Skipping the cooling step: Frosting can melt and slide off; always cool bars completely.
• Using cold butter: Affects texture; ensure butter is at room temperature.
• Not measuring accurately: Too much flour can make the dough dry; always measure with teaspoons and cups.
• Ignoring the baking time: Check early; ovens vary in temperature accuracy.
• Frosting warm bars: Causes melting; wait for bars to cool for best results.
• Not customizing toppings: Be creative! Missing out on personal touches can diminish the fun.

Creative Variations & Customizations

• Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Bars: Fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips for added texture and sweetness.
• Peppermint Frosted Bars: Add peppermint extract and crushed candy canes to the frosting for a festive twist.
• Red Velvet Version: Swap in cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor and color.
• Nut-Free Alternative: Ensure all ingredients are certified nut-free for safe eating.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting moisture if necessary.
• Seasonal Themes: Change up the sprinkles based on holidays—from pastel colors for Easter to shimmer for New Year’s Eve.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

• Hot Cocoa: The rich chocolate flavor complements the sweetness of the bars.
• Freshly Brewed Coffee: Balances the sweetness and adds a warm, comforting element.
• Eggnog: Infinitely festive, enhancing the holiday spirit.
• Fruit Salad: Adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet bars.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or peppermint-flavored ice cream pairs perfectly for indulgence.
• Tea: Earl Grey or chai enhances the spiced addition to the season.
• Cheese Platter: Adds complexity and a savory balance.
• Seasonal Cocktails: Red and green cocktails or mulled wine for adults enhance the holiday theme.

Storage & Meal Prep Instructions

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Freezer: These bars freeze well; wrap in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating Methods: For a warm treat, microwave one bar for 10-15 seconds or serve at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts & Health Insights

Nutrition Table (per piece):

• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 29g
• Sugars: 14g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0g

Health Insights: While these bars are a sweet treat, enjoying them in moderation during the holidays can fit into a balanced diet. Key ingredients like butter provide energy while sugar offers a quick pick-me-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
• What if I don’t have heavy cream for frosting? You can use milk instead; the frosting may be lighter.
• Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes! Ensure it’s a blend meant for baking.
• How do I prevent my bars from sticking to the pan? Use parchment paper or thoroughly spray the pan.
• Can I omit the sprinkles? Absolutely! The cookies are still delicious without.
• What if my frosting is too thick? Add more cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
• How can I ensure even baking? Rotate the pan halfway through baking.
• Can I freeze the baked bars? Yes, they freeze well—just wrap tightly and store!

Final Inspiration & Kitchen Confidence

You have now equipped yourself with the knowledge and enthusiasm to create these decadent Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars! Each batch will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also create joyful moments and cherished memories with loved ones. Celebrate your culinary accomplishments, embrace the holiday spirit, and take a moment to enjoy the delicious results of your hard work. Now, roll up those sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make the season truly sweet!

Print