As I unwrapped the twinkling lights and hung the garlands, the scent of sweet nostalgia filled the air. Suddenly, I craved a classic holiday treat, and that’s when I decided to whip up some Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars. These delightful bars are not just the perfect festive dessert; they also boast a quick prep time that allows you to focus on what matters most—spending time with loved ones. With their colorful sprinkles and buttery, soft texture, these bars are bound to become a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. Plus, they’re an absolute breeze to decorate, making them a fun project for family baking sessions. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with holiday cheer while creating these irresistible cookie bars? Let’s dive in!
Why are these cookie bars so special?
Simplicity: The Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and basic baking skills.
Flavor Bliss: The blend of vanilla and almond extracts delivers a nostalgic, rich flavor that'll have everyone coming back for more.
Eye-Catching: With vibrant red and green sprinkles, they’re a stunning addition to any holiday dessert table, adding a festive flair.
Versatility: Top with your favorite frosting or enjoy them plain—either way, they suit any holiday occasion perfectly.
Crowd Favorite: These bars are guaranteed to bring smiles, making them an ideal treat for gatherings or cozy family nights.
Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients
• Get ready for holiday baking bliss!
For the Cookie Base
- All-purpose flour – A key ingredient that gives the cookie bars their lovely structure.
- Baking powder – Helps the bars rise beautifully for a soft texture.
- Salt – Just a pinch to enhance the sweetness in your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
- Unsalted butter – Softened for easy mixing, providing richness to the bars.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the mix while keeping the texture light and fluffy.
- Large egg – Binds the ingredients while contributing to the bars' moistness.
- Vanilla extract – Adds warm, classic flavor that’s always a holiday hit.
- Almond extract – Elevates the cookie bars with a sweet, nutty hint.
For Topping and Decoration
- Granulated sugar (for sprinkling) – A sparkly sweet layer that adds a touch of crunch.
- Red and green sprinkles – Festive colors that make these cookie bars a visual delight.
- Frosting (optional) – Use store-bought or homemade for an extra touch of sweetness on top.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your baking pan. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars once baked. The aroma of the oven warming up will fill your kitchen with holiday spirit!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This mixture will create the foundation for your cookie bars, giving them structure and a delightful soft texture. Set it aside as we move on to the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar. Beat for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating airy cookie bars, so ensure the mixture is well-combined before proceeding.
Step 4: Add Egg and Extracts
Add in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. The results will enhance the festive flavor of your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could toughen the cookie bars. You want a beautifully thick dough that is just coming together before we move to the next step.
Step 6: Spread in Baking Pan
Pour the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom. Make sure the surface is smooth and level for even baking. Your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars will rise nicely if the dough is evenly distributed.
Step 7: Sprinkle Sugar
Sprinkle the top of the dough evenly with ¼ cup of granulated sugar. This adds a delightful sparkle and slight crunch to the top once baked, making your cookie bars even more tempting. The sweet crust will beautifully contrast the softness of the bars.
Step 8: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—look for lightly golden edges and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. The enticing smell wafting from the oven will signal that your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are nearly ready.
Step 9: Cool Down
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cookie bars cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period helps the bars set and makes cutting them much easier later. Enjoy the aroma while they cool!
Step 10: Frost and Decorate
If desired, after the cookie bars have completely cooled, spread your choice of frosting on top—store-bought or homemade works beautifully. For a festive touch, don’t forget to sprinkle red and green decorations on the frosting, making your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars a feast for the eyes!
Step 11: Cut and Serve
Finally, cut the cooled and decorated cookie bars into squares. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings, and they’re sure to spread joy and sweet nostalgia among your loved ones. Relish the smiles they bring as you offer them around!
Expert Tips for Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
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Proper Butter Softening: Ensure your unsalted butter is softened but not melted. Room temperature butter is pivotal for achieving that light and fluffy texture in your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
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Avoid Overmixing: While combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookie bars—nobody wants that at their holiday gatherings!
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Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allow the cookie bars to reach room temperature after baking before cutting them. This helps to hold their shape and makes for cleaner slices, ensuring everyone gets a perfect piece.
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Use Quality Extracts: Opt for high-quality vanilla and almond extracts. This small detail can elevate the flavor of your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, making them even more aromatic and delicious.
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Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your frosting and sprinkles! Different colors and textures can add a unique flair to your holiday dessert table, making them even more festive.
Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bar Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your magic on these bars with unique flavors and twists that cater to your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat everyone can enjoy. The taste remains delightful!
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Vegan: Swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and replace butter with vegan butter for a plant-based version.
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Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dough for a refreshing burst of citrus flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the cookie dough for decadent bursts of chocolate in each bite.
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Minty Fresh: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the dough for a minty twist that pairs wonderfully with holiday festivities.
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Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and a rich, nutty flavor that adds depth to your bars.
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Coconut Flakes: Mix in ½ cup of sweetened coconut flakes for a tropical flair that’s both unexpected and delightfully chewy.
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Spicy Kick: Blend in a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm spice flavor that captures the essence of the holiday season beautifully.
These variations not only keep the festive spirit alive but also allow you to tailor the bars to your family's preferences. For additional inspiration, consider exploring Expert Tips for Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars or How to Store and Freeze Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars for even more delightful options!
What to Serve with Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
As you gather around the table with loved ones, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your holiday festivities.
- Warm Mulled Cider: This comforting drink fills the air with sweet spices, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cookie bars.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture offers a delightful contrast to the soft, chewy bars while adding a refreshing note.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a fluffy element that enhances each bite of your sugar cookie bars, making them even more indulgent.
- Hot Chocolate: Rich and decadent, a warm cup of cocoa complements the sugary goodness, creating a cozy dessert experience.
- Fresh Berries: Bright tartness from strawberries or raspberries adds a pop of freshness that cuts through the sweetness gracefully.
- Peppermint Bark: Another festive treat, the minty crunch of peppermint adds a festive flavor twist that pairs wonderfully with your cookie bars.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Their warm spices resonate with the holiday spirit and create a delightful contrast in flavor against your sugar cookie bars.
- Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, this traditional drink brings you right into the heart of the holidays, enriching each bite.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of rich melted chocolate on top will add an exciting yet simple flair to your bars, pleasing chocolate lovers.
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients, form the dough, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. Alternatively, you can bake the cookie bars and let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To serve, simply frost and decorate with red and green sprinkles right before enjoying. They’ll be just as delicious and festive, allowing you to focus more on celebrating with loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for snacking!
Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just layer between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Freeze the cookie bars for up to 3 months in an airtight container. For the best results, slice before freezing so you can enjoy a quick treat any time!
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply microwave a piece for about 10-15 seconds. These Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars taste delightful fresh out of the oven or slightly warmed!
Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, particularly the butter, ensure it’s softened but not melted. For the best texture, use unsalted butter at room temperature, which should feel slightly indented when you press down and not greasy. Fresh eggs should be used; look for those that are clean and uncracked.
What’s the best way to store these cookie bars?
For optimal freshness, store your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration works well, extending their life to about a week. Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze the cookie bars? How?
Very easy! To freeze your cookie bars, first cut them into squares to make thawing simpler. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag to protect against freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, just let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
What should I do if the cookie bars turn out too thick or thin?
If your cookie bars are too thick, it may be because of overmixing the dough or not leveling the flour correctly. Use a gentle hand when mixing, and consider spooning and leveling the flour for precise measurement. If they’re too thin, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer—baking at too low a temperature can lead to spreading.
Are these cookie bars suitable for people with allergies?
The recipe for Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars contains gluten and dairy. If you need gluten-free options, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure your butter substitute is dairy-free. Always check for potential cross-contamination when baking for those with allergies. For nut-free versions, leave out the almond extract and double the vanilla.
Delicious Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars for Joyous Holidays
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- spatula
- 9x13-inch baking pan
Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour A key ingredient that gives the cookie bars their lovely structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Helps the bars rise beautifully for a soft texture.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt Just a pinch to enhance the sweetness.
- 1 cup unsalted butter Softened for easy mixing.
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the mix while keeping the texture light and fluffy.
- 1 large egg Binds the ingredients while contributing to the bars' moistness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warm, classic flavor.
- 0.5 teaspoon almond extract Elevates the cookie bars with a sweet, nutty hint.
For Topping and Decoration
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar A sparkly sweet layer that adds a touch of crunch.
- red and green sprinkles Festive colors that make these cookie bars a visual delight.
- frosting Optional, use store-bought or homemade for extra sweetness.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the creamed mixture and mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Pour the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the top of the dough with granulated sugar.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden edges form and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cookie bars cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes on a wire rack.
- Frost and decorate with sprinkles if desired, then cut into squares and serve.
