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Sugar Cookie Bars

Soft Sugar Cookie Bars

These Soft Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, offering all the buttery sweetness you love with far less fuss. Instead of rolling out individual cookies, this recipe lets you press the dough into a baking sheet for quick, even baking.
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Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 28 bars
per serving180

Ingredients
  

  • Sugar Cookie Dough
  • 1 cup unsalted butter , softened
  • 8 ounces cream cheese , softened
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Buttercream Frosting
  • ½ cup butter , softened
  • ½ cup shortening
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk or cream

Method
 

  1. Prepare Sugar Cookie Bars
  2. Step 1: Preheat and Prep Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends slightly over the edges for easy removal. This size pan is essential for achieving the ideal thickness that makes these cookie bars so perfectly soft and chewy.
  3. Step 2: Create the Base Mixture In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until completely smooth and no lumps remain. This typically takes 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. Add granulated sugar and continue beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. This extended mixing time incorporates air, contributing to the tender texture.
  4. Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The egg should be at room temperature to prevent the mixture from seizing. Beat just until incorporated to avoid overworking the dough.
  5. Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This pre-mixing ensures even distribution of leavening agents. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing at this stage can result in tough cookie bars.
  6. Step 5: Bake to Perfection Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking sheet, using slightly damp hands or an offset spatula to ensure uniform thickness. Bake for 23-28 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the center still appears slightly underbaked. The bars will continue cooking from residual heat. Allow to cool completely before frosting, which typically takes 45-60 minutes.
  7. Make the Buttercream Frosting
  8. Step 1: Prepare the Base In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add the shortening and continue mixing until the combination is light and fluffy. The shortening helps create a more stable frosting that won’t melt at room temperature.
  9. Step 2: Add Sweetness and Flavor Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, starting with one cup at a time to prevent a sugary cloud. Add vanilla extract and beat until fully incorporated. Slowly add milk or cream until you achieve a spreadable consistency that holds its shape.
  10. Step 3: Frost and Finish Once the cookie bars have cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula. For professional-looking results, start from the center and work outward. Add colorful sprinkles immediately after frosting for the best adhesion.

Notes

Storage and Variations

These versatile soft sugar cookie bars are equally delicious with chocolate frosting, lemon glaze, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar. The unfrosted bars can be stored at room temperature for up to one week in an airtight container, while frosted bars maintain their quality for five days. For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
Professional bakers often recommend cutting the bars with a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for the neatest presentation. These treats are perfect for potlucks, school events, and holiday gatherings due to their impressive yield and universal appeal.