Santa’s No-Bake Sugar Cookie Bars ✨
Introduction
Imagine capturing the nostalgic sweetness of a classic sugar cookie – that tender, vanilla-kissed, melt-in-your-mouth magic – without ever turning on your oven. That’s the enchantment of these No-Bake Sugar Cookie Bars. Perfect for hectic holidays, last-minute gatherings, or when a wave of festive craving strikes, these bars are a cloud-like confection of pure joy. They’re the edible equivalent of a warm, cozy blanket by the Christmas tree, offering all the flavor and none of the fuss.
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A Bite of History
The sugar cookie’s origins trace back to the 1700s among German Protestant settlers in Pennsylvania, where they were called Nazareth Cookies. The “no-bake” revolution, however, is a more modern convenience, born from mid-20th-century innovations in ready-to-use ingredients like sweetened condensed milk and refined graham crackers. This recipe marries tradition with modern ease, bringing timeless flavor to your table with minimal effort.
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Why You’ll Love Them (The Benefits!)
· Effortless & Accessible: No baking skills or special equipment required.
· All-Season Treat: While perfect for Christmas, they’re delightful year-round.
· Kid-Friendly Fun: A safe, interactive recipe for little helpers to join in.
· Crowd-Pleasing: Universally loved flavor that appeals to all ages.
· Customizable Canvas: Easily adapt with colors, sprinkles, or drizzles for any holiday.
· Cool & Creamy Texture: A delightful contrast to traditional crunchy or chewy baked cookies.
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The Magic Ingredients
For the Crust:
· 2 cups (about 200g) graham cracker crumbs (from approx. 15 full sheets)
· ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, melted
· ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
· ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
· 1 (8 oz / 225g) package full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
· ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
· 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
· 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste for specks!)
· ¼ teaspoon salt
· Optional: 1-2 drops almond extract for extra depth
For the Topping & Decoration:
· 1 cup (100g) powdered sugar, for dusting
· Festive sprinkles, sanded sugar, or edible glitter
· Optional: White chocolate drizzle or royal icing
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The Method: Creating Your Magic Bars
Step 1: Form the Foundation (The Crust)
1. Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until it resembles wet sand and holds together when pinched.
3. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a flat glass or measuring cup to create a compact, solid layer.
4. Place the pan in the refrigerator to set while you make the filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cloud (The Filling)
1. In a large bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes, until completely smooth, creamy, and lump-free.
2. Add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Start mixing on low speed until the sugar is incorporated, then increase to medium-high and beat for another 1-2 minutes until the filling is light, fluffy, and holds stiff peaks. (Add almond extract here if using).
Step 3: Assemble & Chill
1. Remove the crust from the fridge. Spread the fluffy filling evenly over the crust, smoothing the top with an offset spatula or knife.
2. Now, the Grand Decoration: Generously sift the remaining 1 cup of powdered sugar over the entire surface to create a “snowy” blanket. Immediately add your festive sprinkles so they stick to the sugar.
3. Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until very firm. For best results and cleanest cuts, chill for 3-4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Serve with Joy
1. Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
2. Use a sharp knife, wiped clean between cuts, to slice into 16-20 squares or bars.
3. Serve chilled! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Nutrition Note (Per Bar, Approx.)
· Calories: ~280
· Fat: 17g
· Carbohydrates: 30g
· Sugar: 24g
· Protein: 2g
· This is a sweet, indulgent treat best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The joy and shared moments it brings are part of its magic!
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Conclusion & For the True Cookie Lovers
For the true sugar cookie lovers, this recipe is a dream come true. It distills the essence of that beloved flavor into a cool, creamy, no-fuss format. The buttery graham crust provides the perfect textural contrast to the pillowy-soft, vanilla-rich filling, creating a harmony in every bite.
Pro-Tip for Lovers: Elevate your bars by drizzling with melted white chocolate after dusting with sugar, or for an authentic touch, pipe simple royal icing “snowflakes” on top before serving. Pair with a glass of cold milk, a hot cocoa, or a cup of coffee for the ultimate cozy experience.
So, gather your ingredients, put on some festive music, and in just about 15 minutes of active magic-making, you’ll have created a tray of pure, unadulterated Christmas cheer. These bars are more than a dessert; they’re a delicious, hassle-free tradition in the making. Enjoy every sweet, magical bite! 🎄🍪