The delightful scent of butter and vanilla wafting through my kitchen immediately transports me to joyful holiday gatherings. It’s during these magical moments that I can’t resist whipping up a batch of Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars. In just 35 minutes, you can indulge in these soft, chewy bars perfect for cookie exchanges or family festivities—making holiday baking both simple and satisfying. Not to mention, the customizable options let you tailor them to suit every taste, from gluten-free alternatives to festive sprinkles that bring joy to every bite. Ready to dive into a scrumptious slice of holiday cheer? Let’s spread that joy together!
Why Make These Sugar Cookie Bars?
Festive Vibes: The aroma of butter and vanilla fills your kitchen, creating a joyful atmosphere perfect for holiday celebrations.
Quick & Easy: Done in just 35 minutes, these bars are a delightful baking project without the hassle.
Customizable: Whether you prefer a gluten-free option or want to add chocolate chips, the possibilities are endless!
Crowd Pleaser: With their soft, chewy texture and creamy frosting, they’re sure to impress family and friends alike. If you’re looking for more deliciousness, don’t miss out on these Birthday Cake Cookies or Crockpot Cheeseburgers.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for cookie exchanges, parties, or a cozy evening at home!
Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients
• For the Bars
- Butter (1 cup, softened) – Adds a rich, creamy texture to the bars. Substitute with dairy-free alternatives for those with lactose sensitivity.
- Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the bars, making them irresistibly delicious. Using brown sugar yields a deeper flavor.
- Eggs (2 large) – Binds the ingredients for that perfect chewy consistency. Flaxseed meal can replace eggs for a vegan option (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg).
- Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Elevates the sweet flavor, delivering a warm, festive aroma. Opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
- All-Purpose Flour (2.5 cups) – Provides structure as the base for the bars. Sift for a lighter texture or swap with a gluten-free blend if desired.
- Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Gives the bars a lift, ensuring they bake soft and puffy.
- Salt (0.5 tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Holiday Sprinkles or Chips (0.5 cup) – Adds that festive flair and a splash of color. Chocolate chips or nuts can be delightful substitutions.
• For the Frosting
- Butter (0.5 cup, softened) – Yields a smooth frosting that spreads beautifully. Consider the same dairy-free option as for the bars.
- Powdered Sugar (3 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting to create delightful fluffiness.
- Milk (2 tbsp) – Adjusts frosting consistency for easy spreading. Select non-dairy milk to keep it dairy-free.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp, for frosting) – Adds depth and enhances flavors.
- Holiday Sprinkles or Chips (0.5 cup, for topping) – Perfect for decorating your festive bars.
Indulge in making these delicious Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, guaranteed to fill your home with holiday cheer!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Begin by lining a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal later. This not only helps to prevent sticking but also makes it simple to lift your Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars out once they are baked and cooled.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While you’re preparing the baking dish, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your cookie bars bake evenly from the moment you put them in. As the oven warms up, you can move on to preparing the batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the soft, tender texture characteristic of your Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, mix in 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Continue to beat the mixture until everything is well combined and smooth, creating a luscious base for your cookie bars. This will take about another minute.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 0.5 teaspoon of salt to the wet ingredients. Stir gently on low speed just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as the dough should maintain a light and airy quality for perfect Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Step 6: Spread the Dough
Transfer the dough into your prepared baking dish. Using a spatula, evenly spread the mixture across the bottom of the pan, smoothing out the surface so that it bakes uniformly. The dough should fit snugly in the pan, ensuring a thick and chewy bar.
Step 7: Bake the Bars
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know the Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are done when the edges start to turn golden brown and the center is slightly puffy but not fully set. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Step 8: Cool the Bars
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This should take about 30 minutes. Cooling is essential before you frost them, ensuring that your frosting won’t melt and will stay beautifully creamy on top.
Step 9: Make the Frosting
In the meantime, prepare your frosting by beating 0.5 cup of softened butter in a bowl until creamy and smooth. Gradually mix in 3 cups of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, until you achieve a fluffy texture that’s easy to spread.
Step 10: Frost the Bars
Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting over the top using a spatula or knife. For a festive touch, sprinkle with your favorite holiday sprinkles or chips. This will add both color and an extra layer of sweetness to your cookie bars.
Step 11: Slice and Serve
Finally, cut your delicious Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars into squares or rectangles. Place them on a serving platter and share them at your holiday gatherings! Each bite will be a delightful taste of the season, perfect for celebrating with family and friends.
Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these sugar cookie bars your own, delighting in new flavors and textures!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to keep the festive spirit while accommodating dietary needs.
- Nutty Flavor: Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts for a delightful crunch that complements the sweetness.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent twist that chocolate enthusiasts will adore.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon for a refreshing brightness that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
- Spiced Variation: Enhance the flavor by adding 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg, giving your bars that cozy holiday warmth.
- Fruity Chocolate: Mix in 1 cup of dried cranberries or cherries along with chocolate chips for a chewy, fruity contrast that’s utterly delicious.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle melted caramel over the frosting for an extra layer of sweetness and a gorgeous presentation.
- Holiday Theme: Top with festive-themed sprinkles or crushed candy canes to elevate your bars’ holiday appearance and add a touch of minty freshness.
Embrace the joy of baking this season and consider pairing these bars with a comforting cup of hot cocoa or perhaps dessert after enjoying savory dishes like Crockpot Cheeseburgers!
Expert Tips for Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
• Check for Doneness: Start checking the bars at 12 minutes to avoid over-baking; they should be slightly puffy and just golden at the edges.
• Room Temperature Butter: Always use softened butter for an easier creaming process, resulting in a light and fluffy texture for your Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
• Cooling is Key: Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting; this prevents the frosting from melting and maintains a beautiful presentation.
• Customize Wisely: Don’t hesitate to experiment with mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, but keep in mind that moisture-heavy ingredients can alter the texture of your bars.
• Proper Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 7 days for a longer lifespan.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Airtight Container: Store your Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness.
Refrigeration: If you prefer them chilled, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooled bars in individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: To gently warm, microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive the softness, making your first bite just as delightful as when they were fresh.
What to Serve with Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
Create a festive feast by pairing these sweet delights with warm, comforting treats and cheerful accompaniments.
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Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy flavors of hot cocoa balance the sweetness of the bars, making for a cozy pairing on chilly nights. Add marshmallows for extra warmth!
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of light and fluffy whipped cream is the perfect touch to enhance the creamy frosting, creating an indulgent experience with every bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures—soft, chewy bars meet cool, creamy bliss.
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Warm Apple Cider: The spiced warmth of apple cider complements the buttery cookies beautifully, creating a nostalgic holiday aroma that fills the air.
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Festive Fruit Platter: Fresh fruit like strawberries, kiwi, or mandarin oranges add a refreshing twist, creating a lovely contrast to the sweet, rich bars.
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Spiced Nuts: The crunch of spiced nuts adds texture and depth to your dessert table, providing a savory option to balance out the sweetness of the bars.
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Peppermint Hot Chocolate: For a seasonal twist, serve with peppermint hot chocolate. The minty flavor adds a festive flair, enhancing the holiday spirit in each bite.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Pair with gingerbread cookies for a traditional taste of the season; the spiced flavors perfectly complement the vanilla sweetness of your sugar cookie bars.
Mix and match these options to create a memorable holiday dessert spread that delights everyone!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by storing it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator; this allows the flavors to meld for an even tastier bar. The frosting can also be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge—just give it a quick stir before spreading. When ready to bake, simply spread the chilled dough in the pan and follow the baking instructions. With these make-ahead options, you’ll save time and still enjoy delicious, festive treats just as scrumptious as if made fresh!
Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use for the bars?
I recommend using unsalted butter for these Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars to control the saltiness of your baked goods. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar, yielding that perfect light and fluffy texture we all love!
How should I store leftover cookie bars?
Store your cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them cold, you can refrigerate the bars for up to 7 days. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture!
Can I freeze these sugar cookie bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual squares of cooled bars in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will remain good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and relish that fresh-baked taste!
What if the cookies come out dry?
If your Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars turn out dry, it may be due to over-baking. I recommend checking them around the 12-minute mark and ensuring the edges are just golden while the center remains slightly puffy. For added moisture, consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk to your frosting for serving!
Are there any allergy considerations for the ingredients?
For those with lactose sensitivity, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, and non-dairy milk can work for the frosting. Also, be mindful of any gluten allergies and choose a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive treats!
Can I add mix-ins or custom flavors?
Yes! Personalization is key with these cookie bars. You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even citrus zest to match your palate. Just be cautious with moisture-heavy ingredients to maintain the right texture while keeping the bars soft and chewy!
Easy Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe for Festive Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat together 1 cup softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in 2 large eggs and 2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt; stir gently until a soft dough forms.
- Spread the Dough: Transfer the dough into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the surface.
- Bake the Bars: Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden and center is slightly puffy.
- Cool the Bars: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan (about 30 minutes).
- Make the Frosting: Beat 0.5 cup softened butter with powdered sugar, milk, and 1 tsp vanilla until fluffy.
- Frost the Bars: Spread frosting over cooled bars and top with sprinkles.
- Slice and Serve: Cut into squares or rectangles and serve at holiday gatherings.