The sweet aroma of Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars wafts through the air, instantly igniting memories of festive gatherings and laughter. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, buttery bar sprinkled with colorful holiday sprinkles, evoking joy and warmth with every bite. For more inspiration, check out this lemon lavender cookies recipe.
Every holiday season, I whip up these delightful treats, infusing our home with love and nostalgia. They’re perfect for cozy family gatherings or as a cheerful gift for friends. perfect pairing for holiday desserts Get ready to create some delicious holiday magic!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are incredibly easy to make, so you can focus on festive fun rather than complex baking techniques
- The flavor is a sweet blend of buttery goodness and vanilla bliss that melts in your mouth
- Visually attractive with vibrant sprinkles, they’ll brighten up any dessert table
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings or flavors, making them a hit for all ages
I still remember the first time I brought these bars to a family gathering; everyone was asking for seconds and thirds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious fall comfort food.
-
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness; let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing.
-
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that lovely texture; opt for fine sugar for even distribution.
-
Eggs: Bring eggs to room temperature before adding them to enhance the batter’s creaminess.
-
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract will elevate the flavor profile; avoid imitation vanilla if possible.
-
All-Purpose Flour: Use spooned flour to measure accurately; too much can make your bars dense instead of chewy.
-
Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for optimal leavening; it helps achieve that fluffy texture we all adore.
-
Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness beautifully; don’t skip it!
-
Sprinkles (optional): Choose festive colors to make these bars extra cheerful; they add a fun pop of color! satisfying main course option.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. ideal brunch recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, combine softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes—trust me, this step is key for great texture!
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until everything is combined smoothly.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing gently until just combined.
Add Sprinkles and Spread Batter: Fold in sprinkles if using; this adds fun color! Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish using a spatula.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them—they should be slightly firm but not overbaked!
Once they cool down slightly, slice them into squares and watch as everyone gathers around for their fair share of these delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars! Enjoy every crumb as you savor those festive flavors together! For more inspiration, check out this lemon cheesecake squares recipe.
You Must Know
- Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on traditional cookies
- Their soft, chewy texture and festive flavors make them perfect for holiday gatherings
- Plus, they’re easy to make in large batches, so you can share them with everyone on your nice list!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar, then mix in eggs and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients separately before blending them for an even dough. Finally, spread the mixture in a lined pan and bake until golden.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding festive sprinkles or chocolate chips for extra flair. You can also swap out vanilla for almond extract to elevate the flavor profile. Feeling adventurous? Try adding crushed peppermint for a minty kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them warm later, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until gooey again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly chewy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing the dough
- Allow them to cool completely before slicing to maintain shape, and consider using a spatula for even cutting
The first time I made these bars, my cousin declared they were “the best things ever!” This was right after he accidentally spilled half of his milkshake on them—talk about a holiday miracle!
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free flour for Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
Yes, gluten-free flour works well; just ensure it’s a 1: 1 substitute.
How should I decorate my Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
Top with icing and colorful sprinkles for an eye-catching holiday treat.
Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to three months.
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive delight of Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, a soft and buttery treat that fills your home with holiday cheer. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or giving as gifts. Topped with vibrant sprinkles, they are sure to bring smiles to faces young and old!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup festive sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
- Fold in sprinkles (if using) and spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. Allow to cool before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
