Sure! Here’s a full recipe for Santa’s No-Bake Sugar Cookie Bars, complete with an introduction, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, a bit of history, and even a fun note for lovers of sweet treats.
Santa’s No-Bake Sugar Cookie Bars
Introduction:
Santa’s No-Bake Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect holiday treat that brings together the rich flavors of graham cracker crust, sweetened condensed milk, and creamy filling — all without turning on the oven! These festive bars are easy to make, require no baking, and are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Ideal for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or even just an after-dinner indulgence, these bars will become a favorite for anyone who loves classic holiday desserts with a twist.
History of Sugar Cookies & No-Bake Desserts:
Sugar cookies have a long and warm tradition, dating back to the early European settlers in America. In the early 1700s, Dutch settlers in Pennsylvania are often credited with bringing the sugar cookie to the New World. Originally, these cookies were made with simple ingredients like sugar, butter, eggs, and flour, and they were shaped into various forms to celebrate the holidays.
No-bake desserts, on the other hand, rose to popularity in the 20th century, especially during times when ovens were not always reliable or when people wanted quick and easy ways to make sweets. The convenience of no-bake recipes, especially around the holidays, makes them a favorite among busy bakers.
These Santa’s No-Bake Sugar Cookie Bars combine the best of both worlds: a time-tested sugar cookie flavor in a no-bake format that’s perfect for modern-day celebrations!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or more for a fluffier texture)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted (optional)
- Colored sprinkles (for extra festive flair!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Crust
- Prep the Pan: Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Combine Crust Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
- Press into the Pan: Pour the graham cracker mixture into the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press it firmly into an even layer, creating the crust base. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or whisk by hand for this step.
- Add the Whipping Cream: Slowly add the heavy whipping cream to the cream cheese mixture, continuing to mix until the filling becomes thick and smooth.
- Spread Over the Crust: Carefully spread the filling over the chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly.
Step 3: Add the Topping (Optional)
- White Chocolate Drizzle: If you want to add a touch of decadence, drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top of the bars.
- Sprinkles for Festivity: Decorate with colorful sprinkles to make the bars extra festive for the holidays.
Step 4: Chill and Set
- Refrigerate: Place the baking dish in the fridge and allow the bars to set for at least 2–3 hours (or overnight for best results). This helps the filling firm up and makes the bars easier to cut.
- Slice and Serve: Once chilled and set, cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Methods of Formation (How These Bars Came to Be):
The concept of no-bake desserts was inspired by the desire to create simple yet indulgent treats without the need for complicated steps or excessive time spent in the kitchen. In the case of Santa’s No-Bake Sugar Cookie Bars, the idea was to create a treat that combines the familiar, comforting taste of a classic sugar cookie with the ease of a no-bake recipe. By using graham cracker crumbs for the crust and a fluffy cream cheese filling, these bars are easy to prepare, yet luxurious enough to feel like a holiday indulgence.
Conclusion:
Santa’s No-Bake Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful and quick way to bring festive cheer to your table. The combination of a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy sweet filling, and festive toppings makes for a treat that’s perfect for all ages. They are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great option for people looking for easy holiday desserts that require minimal effort and no oven time. These bars will become a favorite in your dessert rotation, and you can customize them with different toppings to fit your holiday theme!
For the Lovers of Sweet Treats:
Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or even for yourself (because who doesn’t deserve a little indulgence?), these Santa’s No-Bake Sugar Cookie Bars are a gift that keeps on giving. They’re great for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or even a cozy night in with a mug of hot cocoa. You can experiment with different fillings or crusts — add crushed Oreos for a chocolate twist or top them with crushed candy canes for a peppermint version. The possibilities are endless, making this treat a true crowd-pleaser for all kinds of sweet lovers.
Enjoy these delicious bars with loved ones, and don’t forget to leave one out for Santa! 🎅✨