Santa’s Sugar Cookie Bars

Get into the holiday spirit with these festive Santa’s Sugar Cookie Bars! These soft and chewy bars are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, topped with a creamy frosting and festive sprinkles. They’re perfect for sharing with family, friends, or even leaving out for Santa himself.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Bars:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
3 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Red gel food coloring (optional, for Santa vibes)

Toppings:

Holiday sprinkles or edible glitter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Bars

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press the dough into an even layer.

Step 2: Bake the Cookie Bars

Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Avoid overbaking to maintain the bars’ soft texture.
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Frosting

While the cookie bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid sugar clouds.
Add the vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add another tablespoon of milk.
For a festive touch, mix in red gel food coloring until you achieve your desired hue.

Step 4: Assemble and Decorate

Once the cookie bars are completely cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan and place them on a flat surface.
Spread the frosting evenly over the bars using an offset spatula or butter knife.
Decorate with holiday sprinkles, edible glitter, or any festive toppings you like.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Use a sharp knife to cut the cookie bars into squares or rectangles. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between slices.
Arrange the bars on a festive platter, and they’re ready to enjoy!

Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation.
Chill the Dough (Optional): For a slightly firmer bar, chill the dough in the pan for 15 minutes before baking.
Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Make-Ahead Option: You can bake the cookie bars a day ahead and frost them on the day of serving.

Variations

Flavor Twist: Swap almond extract with peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes for a wintery mint flavor.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Mix mini chocolate chips into the dough and drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Santa’s Sugar Cookie Bars are guaranteed to become a holiday favorite in your home. Their ease of preparation, festive look, and delicious taste make them a winning dessert for Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, or cozy nights by the fireplace.

Enjoy spreading holiday cheer with every sweet bite! 🎄