Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Introduction: If you’re looking for a festive, easy-to-make treat that delivers all the classic flavors of Christmas sugar cookies but with half the effort, then these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are just what you need! These soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet bars are topped with a colorful glaze and sprinkles, making them a delightful addition to your holiday dessert table. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday party, or just indulging in some holiday spirit, these bars are sure to be a hit.

A Little History: Sugar cookies have been a holiday favorite for centuries. The origins of sugar cookies can be traced back to 18th century Europe, with the earliest recipes appearing in Germany and the Netherlands. They were originally made to celebrate the holidays, especially Christmas. Over time, sugar cookies evolved into the beloved treats we know today, with various regional variations. While the traditional sugar cookie is made by rolling out dough, cutting it into shapes, and decorating with icing or sprinkles, sugar cookie bars offer a simpler method without sacrificing flavor.

Formation: This version of sugar cookies takes the classic treat and transforms it into a bar form, so you can enjoy all the delicious flavors of sugar cookies without the hassle of rolling out dough. The base is buttery, tender, and has just the right amount of sweetness. The bars are topped with a simple sugar glaze and festive sprinkles that bring both color and flavor, making them perfect for any holiday occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Base:

¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 ½ cups (310 g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt

For the Sugar Glaze:

1 cup (125 g) powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk (or more, for desired consistency)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional, for a festive touch)

For the Topping:

Sprinkles (Christmas-themed, or your favorite)
Optional: extra powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
Make the Cookie Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully incorporated. The dough will be thick.
Spread the Dough:
- Transfer the cookie dough to your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands to evenly spread the dough into the pan, pressing it into the corners and smoothing the top.
Bake the Cookie Bars:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The bars should be slightly puffed and firm to the touch. Allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the Sugar Glaze:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if the glaze is too thick or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin. You want it to be pourable but thick enough to set once it cools.
- If you’d like to add color, divide the glaze into small bowls and stir in a few drops of food coloring to create festive colors.
Glaze the Cookie Bars:
- Once the cookie bars have cooled completely, spread the glaze over the top in an even layer. If using multiple colors, you can drizzle them in patterns or use a spoon to swirl them together for a marbled effect.
Add the Toppings:
- Immediately sprinkle the bars with your choice of colorful sprinkles, such as red, green, and white to match the Christmas theme. For an extra festive touch, dust with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar.
Let the Bars Set:
- Allow the glaze to set for 20-30 minutes before cutting into squares or bars. This ensures the glaze hardens slightly and doesn’t get too sticky.

Methods for Success:

Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting. This will ensure your dough comes together smoothly.
Mixing the Dough: Don’t over-mix the dough once you add the flour. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookie bars.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. You want them to be golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
Customization: Feel free to customize the glaze by adding flavors such as almond extract or lemon zest. You can also mix in holiday-themed decorations like mini chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, or a dusting of edible glitter for extra sparkle.

Conclusion:

These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars combine the best of both worlds—flavor and ease. With a buttery, soft base and a sweet glaze, they’re a perfect holiday treat for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert for a holiday gathering or a sweet treat to enjoy while watching Christmas movies, these bars are a go-to recipe you’ll love baking year after year.

Lovers of Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars:

Families: These bars are great for families who want to bake together without the hassle of rolling and cutting cookie dough.
Cookie Lovers: Anyone who loves classic sugar cookies but wants an easier version will adore this recipe.
Holiday Party Hosts: If you’re hosting a holiday get-together, these bars are the perfect dessert to share with friends and family.
Busy Bakers: Anyone looking for a quicker way to make sugar cookies during the busy holiday season will appreciate the convenience of this recipe.

Happy Baking! 🎄🍪