These cookie bars offer all the flavor of classic sugar cookies without the hassle of rolling and cutting dough. The soft and tender base pairs perfectly with the rich frosting, and you can decorate them with sprinkles for a fun, customizable finish. Ideal for feeding a crowd or whipping up a quick dessert, this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Powdered sugar (for frosting)
Heavy cream or milk
Food coloring (optional, for frosting)
Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract (and almond extract if using).
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula or your hands.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Do not overbake.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
To make the frosting, beat butter until creamy, then gradually mix in powdered sugar, cream or milk, and vanilla. Add food coloring if desired.
Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars and decorate with sprinkles. Cut into squares to serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 cookie bars. Prep time is approximately 15 minutes, baking time is 18–22 minutes, and cooling/frosting time adds about 30 minutes.
Variations
Swap vanilla frosting for cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist.
Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrus flavor.
Change the frosting color and sprinkles to match holidays or party themes.
Mix mini chocolate chips or funfetti sprinkles into the dough for added texture.
Make them gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Storage/Reheating
Store frosted sugar cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted bars for up to 2 months. Allow to come to room temperature before frosting and serving. Individual bars can be microwaved for 5–10 seconds for a slightly warm treat.
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake and frost them a day in advance. Store them covered at room temperature or chilled.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No chilling is required, which makes this recipe quick and convenient.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger sheet pan and adjust baking time slightly as needed.
Can I use store-bought frosting?
Yes, though homemade frosting offers the best flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have a 9×13 pan?
You can use a slightly smaller pan for thicker bars, just adjust the baking time accordingly.
Why are my bars dry?
They may have been overbaked. Remove them from the oven when the edges are golden but the center is still soft.
Can I freeze frosted bars?
It’s best to freeze them unfrosted. If already frosted, freeze in a single layer first, then stack with parchment between layers.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk in both the dough and frosting.
Are these good for decorating with kids?
Absolutely. Kids love spreading frosting and adding colorful sprinkles.
Can I use other extracts besides vanilla?
Yes, try almond, lemon, or peppermint extract to change up the flavor.
Conclusion
Frosted sugar cookie bars are the ultimate easy dessert that delivers on flavor, fun, and presentation. With their soft, buttery base and creamy frosting, these bars are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, holiday, or just a sweet craving, this recipe is a delicious go-to that never fails to impress.
Frosted sugar cookie bars are soft, chewy dessert bars with the classic flavor of sugar cookies topped with creamy frosting and colorful sprinkles. They’re baked in one pan, making them easy and perfect for parties, holidays, or a fun treat anytime.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:1 hour (including cooling and frosting)
Yield:24 bars
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk (for frosting)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
Food coloring (optional, for frosting)
Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula or your hands.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and center is set. Do not overbake.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cream or milk, and vanilla extract. Add food coloring if desired.
Spread the frosting over the cooled bars and decorate with sprinkles.
Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Don’t overbake—remove from oven when center is just set for soft bars.Customize colors and sprinkles to match holidays or party themes.Unfrosted bars freeze well for up to 2 months.Add lemon zest or swap extracts for different flavor profiles.
