Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars

Perfectly, simple, delicious, traditional sugar cookies are transformed into frosted soft sugar cookie bars that are sure to impress. With a luscious cherry buttercream frosting, these cookie bars are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration. Their thick, soft texture and delightful flavor make them a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Soft: The unique baking method results in cookie bars that are soft and chewy, leaving you wanting more.
• Versatile Topping: While this version features cherry buttercream frosting, feel free to experiment with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste.
• Great for Sharing: With 20 servings per batch, these cookie bars are ideal for gatherings or celebrations.
• Fun and Festive: The vibrant color from the pink food gel and sprinkles makes them visually appealing for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your frosted soft sugar cookie bars, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect texture for your cookie bars.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Rubber spatula: This tool is essential for scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.

Ingredients

Perfectly, simple, delicious, traditional sugar cookies transformed into soft, thick sugar cookie bars frosted with a cherry buttercream frosting that will knock your socks off!

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Bars

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks, softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cherry Buttercream Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks, softened)
• 3 – 4 cups confectioner’s sugar (sifted)
• Pinch of salt
• 2 teaspoons cherry extract or vanilla extract (can also use maraschino cherry juice 2-3 tablespoons)
• 2-3 tablespoons almond milk or cream
• 1-2 drops pink food gel
• Sprinkles

How to Make Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookie bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. The softened unsalted butter,
2. The granulated sugar,
3. The powdered sugar.
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add:
1. The large eggs,
2. The vanilla extract.
Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. The all-purpose flour,
2. The baking powder,
3. The salt.
Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients stirring until just combined.

Step 6: Bake the Cookie Bars

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Allow cooling completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 7: Make the Cherry Buttercream Frosting

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the softened unsalted butter,
2. Gradually add in the sifted confectioner’s sugar,
3. Mix in a pinch of salt,
4. Add either the cherry extract, or use maraschino cherry juice as an alternative,
5. Stir in the desired amount of almond milk or cream until smooth,
6. Add pink food gel for color if desired.

Step 8: Frost the Cookie Bars

Once cooled completely, spread an even layer of cherry buttercream frosting over your cookie bars using a rubber spatula. Finish with colorful sprinkles on top for decoration.

Now enjoy your delicious frosted soft sugar cookie bars!

How to Serve Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars

Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual get-togethers. These colorful treats can be served in a variety of ways to enhance their appeal.

Celebrate with Sprinkles

• Add a vibrant touch by topping the frosting with colorful sprinkles. This makes them festive and fun, especially for kids’ parties.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries or cherries. The tartness of the fruit contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookie bars.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookie bars on a platter with other desserts like brownies and cupcakes. This variety will delight guests and satisfy different taste preferences.

Enjoy with Milk or Plant-Based Alternatives

• For a classic pairing, offer cold milk or almond milk. The creamy beverage balances the sweetness of the cookie bars perfectly.

Present as Party Favors

• Cut the bars into smaller squares and package them in clear bags tied with ribbons. They make delightful party favors that guests can take home.

How to Perfect Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars

To ensure your Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars turn out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker bars.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Do Not Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; remove them when they are just set and lightly golden around the edges.
• Sift Confectioner’s Sugar: Sifting removes lumps in your frosting, leading to a smooth and creamy texture.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a little almond milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Decorate Creatively: Use food gel or additional sprinkles to create fun designs on top of the frosting for visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars

While these cookie bars are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert spread.

1. Fruit Skewers
   Colorful fruit skewers provide a refreshing contrast to sweet cookie bars, making for a balanced dessert experience.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
   These sweet treats add elegance and indulgence, harmonizing well with the flavors of sugar cookies.
3. Mini Cheesecakes
   Offering mini cheesecakes adds creaminess that pairs well with the soft texture of sugar cookies while providing variety.
4. Ice Cream Sundaes
   Ice cream sundaes with toppings allow guests to customize their desserts alongside cookie bars, enhancing enjoyment.
5. Whipped Cream Parfaits
   Layering whipped cream with berries creates light parfaits that complement the richness of frosted cookie bars.
6. Yogurt Dips
   Serve yogurt dips flavored with vanilla or cherry as a lighter option alongside cookie bars for those who prefer less sweetness.
7. Nut Mixes
   A mix of nuts provides crunchy contrast and balances out sweetness when served next to dessert items like cookie bars.
8. Tea or Coffee
   Offering hot beverages like tea or coffee enhances flavors and creates a cozy atmosphere when enjoying these delightful treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• When making frosted soft sugar cookie bars, it’s easy to overlook small details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
• Not properly measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful bake. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar and liquid measuring cups for liquids.
• Skipping the creaming process: Properly creaming the butter and sugars creates a light texture. Beat until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes, before adding other ingredients.
• Overbaking the bars: Keep an eye on the baking time. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter and better rise.
• Not chilling the dough: If you find the dough too sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes can make it easier to handle without compromising texture.
• Neglecting flavor additions: Experiment with extracts or spices! Adding a hint of almond extract can elevate your frosted soft sugar cookie bars.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered pan over medium-low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making frosted soft sugar cookie bars:

What makes these Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars so special?

These bars are thick, chewy, and topped with a delicious cherry buttercream frosting that enhances their sweetness.

Can I customize the frosting on my Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars?

Absolutely! You can use different extracts or even incorporate fruit purees into your frosting for various flavors.

How do I ensure my Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars stay soft?

Store them properly in an airtight container and avoid overbaking them to retain moisture.

What is the best way to serve Frosted Soft Sugar Cookie Bars?

These bars are perfect for parties, birthdays, or just as a sweet treat at home! Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Frosted soft sugar cookie bars are not only delectable but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different flavors and colors, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party or a simple dessert craving, give this recipe a try!