As I unpack the holiday decorations, a flood of memories washes over me—laughing around the kitchen table, the sweet aroma of baked goods enveloping my childhood home. One delightful treat that always graced our celebrations is the Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars. These bars are a whimsical twist on classic sugar cookies, bringing joy to both young and old. The best part? They come together in just under an hour, making them a perfect choice for busy holiday schedules. With a sprinkle of red and green, they not only taste great but also bring a vibrant pop to any festive gathering. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a newbie wanting to impress, these cookie bars will leave everyone asking for seconds. Curious about how you can craft these sweet delights? Let's dive into the recipe!
Why are Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars a must-try?
Delightfully Easy: This recipe is a breeze, making it perfect for busy holiday cooks.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of butter, vanilla, and almond extracts brings a buttery richness that’s hard to resist.
Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch and watch them disappear at parties or family gatherings—everyone will want a piece!
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or change up the frosting for a personal touch.
Quick Bake Time: In just under an hour, these cookie bars will be ready to impress your guests during the festive season!
A Festive Touch: With vibrant red and green sprinkles, they look as good as they taste, making them an attractive holiday treat.
Elevate your baking game this season by trying these Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars
• All-purpose flour – This forms the base of the bars, ensuring a soft and chewy texture.
• Baking powder – A key leavening agent that helps the bars rise perfectly during baking.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor, balancing the sweetness of the sugar.
• Unsalted butter – Provides richness and a buttery flavor that makes these cookie bars irresistible.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and contributes to the chewy texture.
• Large egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the bars.
• Vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness.
• Almond extract – Adds a delightful nutty undertone, enhancing the flavor profile of the cookie bars.
For the Topping
• Granulated sugar – Sprinkling this on top before baking creates a lovely sugary crust.
• Red and green sprinkles – Perfect for decoration, these festive sprinkles bring holiday cheer to your treats.
• Optional frosting – A delightful layer of frosting can be added for an extra sweet touch, whether store-bought or homemade.
Indulge in the joy of baking these Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars and share them with loved ones this holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with unsalted butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This will ensure that your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars come out perfectly and don’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This dry mixture adds fluffiness and structure to the cookie bars. After whisking, set this bowl aside, as you will incorporate it into the wet ingredients soon.
Step 3: Cream the 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. Mix until the combination turns light and fluffy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial, as it helps to aerate the mixture for deliciously chewy Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined and you have a creamy batter. The addition of these flavors enhances the sweetness and elevates the overall taste of your cookie bars.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, continuing to mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to a tougher texture. You want a soft, slightly sticky dough that will bake into delectable Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Step 6: Spread the Dough in the Pan
Pour the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula, spread the dough evenly across the bottom of the pan, ensuring that it reaches the corners. This will create a uniform thickness for your cookie bars, ensuring even baking and that every bite is just as good as the last.
Step 7: Sprinkle with Sugar
Sprinkle ¼ cup of granulated sugar evenly over the top of the dough. This sugar layer will caramelize and form a delightful crust as the cookie bars bake, adding an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful finish to your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Step 8: Bake the Cookie Bars
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven, and let it bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges; they should become lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. This visual cue indicates that your cookie bars are perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Step 9: Cool the Bars
Once baked, remove the cookie bars from the oven and set the pan on a wire rack. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step ensures that the bars set properly and are easier to cut when they cool down a bit.
Step 10: Frost and Decorate
If you desire, after the cookie bars have completely cooled, you can frost them with your favorite frosting—whether store-bought or homemade. This is an optional yet delightful step that adds an extra layer of sweetness to your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Step 11: Add Festive Sprinkles
For an attractive festive touch, top the bars with red and green sprinkles before cutting them into squares. The sprinkles will add color and joy, making your cookie bars perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the traditional Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars to suit your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine to create a vegan-friendly treat without sacrificing flavor.
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Nutty Kick: Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the dough for an added crunch and delightful nutty flavor.
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Chocolate Lover's Delight: Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips or chunks to transform them into decadent chocolate sugar cookie bars that will be a hit at any gathering.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange into the dough for a refreshing citrusy note that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Spiced Variation: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the dry ingredients for a cozy, spiced twist perfect for the holiday season.
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Frosting Alternative: Instead of traditional frosting, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled bars for a sweet and glossy finish that everyone will adore.
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Heat it Up: For a fun twist, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the sugar topping before baking for a surprising, spicy kick that pairs well with cool frosting.
With these variations, your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars will become an even more beloved staple during the holidays! For an exceptional flavor journey, consider pairing these treats with a warm cup of hot cocoa or a festive drink to elevate your holiday treat experience. Happy baking!
Helpful Tricks for Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter, enhancing the overall texture of the Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined after adding the dry ingredients—overmixing can lead to tough cookie bars instead of the desirable soft and chewy texture.
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Even Spreading: Use a spatula to evenly spread the dough in the prepared pan. This helps with uniform baking, ensuring that every bite of your sugar cookie bars is equally delicious.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your bars while baking. They’re done when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean—giving you perfectly bakedFestive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
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Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting. This step is essential for proper set-up, making it easier to cut and present without crumbling.
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Customize with Toppings: Feel free to personalize with your favorite frosting or adding nuts and chocolate chips to the dough for a twist on these festive treats!
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it before baking. For an even quicker option, you can bake the bars and let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, just frost and sprinkle them with festive decorations. This way, your cookie bars will remain just as delicious and fresh, making your holiday gatherings a breeze!
What to Serve with Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
The holidays are all about gathering around the table, sharing laughter, and, of course, delighting in the taste of the season!
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: This rich drink is perfect for dipping—its warmth complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully.
- Spiced Eggnog: Announce the season with this classic holiday beverage, blending creaminess and festive spices that enhance the sugar cookie flavors.
- Minty Green Salad: A refreshing mix of crisp greens with a zesty dressing adds a vibrant contrast to the sweet bars, keeping your meal balanced and bright.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the Christmas spirit with these aromatic treats, creating a delightful cookie platter that guests will adore.
- Warm Apple Cider: This aromatic beverage offers a comforting hug, evoking cozy memories while harmonizing with your cookie bars' cheerful sprinkles.
- Pecan Pie: The nutty flavor of this favorite holiday dessert pairs perfectly with the sweet softness of the sugar cookie bars. Serve them side by side for a warm, indulgent treat!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast in texture and temperature, making every bite of the cookie bars even more enjoyable.
- Festive Fruit Platter: An assortment of seasonal fruits like cranberries, oranges, and apples freshens up your dessert table, balancing sweetness with a burst of color.
- Classic Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream on top adds richness and a light touch, elevating the experience with each bite of your festive creation!
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 to maintain their freshness and softness.
Fridge: For longer shelf life, keep the cookie bars in the fridge for up to 1 week. Ensure they are covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my butter is at the right temperature?
Absolutely! For the best results, your butter should be softened to room temperature, meaning it should be slightly cool to the touch but not melted. If it leaves an indent when pressed with a finger, you're good to go! If you're in a hurry, you can cut the butter into small cubes and let it sit out for about 10-15 minutes.
What is the best way to store leftover cookie bars?
I recommend storing your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you're looking to keep them fresher for longer, pop them in the refrigerator where they'll stay good for up to a week. Just make sure they’re covered to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze the cookie bars? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your cookie bars, first, let them cool completely. Then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until they’re just warm and soft again.
What should I do if the cookie bars turn out too dry?
If your cookie bars come out dry, it’s often due to overmixing the dough or overbaking. For next time, mix the ingredients until just combined, and keep an eye on them as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges and soft in the center for the perfect chewy texture.
Are there any allergies I should consider with this recipe?
For those with allergies, this recipe contains common allergens: gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter), and egg. If you're baking for someone with these allergies, try substituting with gluten-free flour, dairy-free butter, and a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken). This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars!
What can I use instead of almond extract?
If you’re looking for alternatives to almond extract, vanilla extract is a great substitute and will still provide lovely flavor. You can also use a splash of hazelnut extract or simply omit it if there are nut allergies in your family. The bars will still taste delicious and festive!
Deliciously Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars to Wow Your Guests
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- spatula
- Baking pan
- Electric Mixer
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour This forms the base of the bars, ensuring a soft and chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder A key leavening agent that helps the bars rise perfectly during baking.
- ½ teaspoon salt Enhances the flavor, balancing the sweetness of the sugar.
- 1 cup unsalted butter Provides richness and a buttery flavor that makes these cookie bars irresistible.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar Sweetens the dough and contributes to the chewy texture.
- 1 large egg Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the bars.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon almond extract Adds a delightful nutty undertone, enhancing the flavor profile of the cookie bars.
For the Topping
- ¼ cup granulated sugar Sprinkling this on top before baking creates a lovely sugary crust.
- as needed red and green sprinkles Perfect for decoration, these festive sprinkles bring holiday cheer to your treats.
- as needed optional frosting A delightful layer of frosting can be added for an extra sweet touch, whether store-bought or homemade.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until creamy.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top of the dough.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Frost with your favorite frosting if desired, and top with red and green sprinkles.
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