As the aroma of soft, buttery cookie bars begins to fill the air, it’s hard not to feel the warmth of the holiday spirit wrapping around you. These Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are not just a treat; they are a heartfelt way to create memories and elevate your seasonal gatherings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious dessert that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also provides that delightful homemade charm. Whether you're sharing them with family or alone with a cup of cocoa, these bars bring a comforting twist to classic Christmas cookies. Let’s dive into the joys of baking—how do you like your festive treats decorated?
Why are These Cookie Bars So Special?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of vanilla and almond extracts creates a rich, buttery flavor that screams holiday spirit.
Quick & Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you'll spend less time baking and more time celebrating with loved ones.
Festive Appeal: Topped with colorful sprinkles, these bars add a festive touch to any dessert table, making them perfect for celebrations.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them plain or with frosting; these bars cater to your mood and preferences, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Perfect for Sharing: Easily cut into squares, they are great for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in with family. Try pairing them with a warm beverage for an even better experience.
Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients
Get ready to bake some delightful treats!
For the Cookie Bars
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – ensures a soft, chewy texture for your sugar cookie bars.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the bars rise, creating that perfect height.
• ½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness of the sugar.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – adds richness and makes the bars melt in your mouth.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – sweetens the dough for those classic festive sugar cookie flavors.
• 1 large egg – binds all the ingredients together for a cohesive dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – infuses warm, comforting notes into your treats.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract – adds a delightful twist to the flavor, making these bars irresistible.
For the Topping
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for sprinkling) – creates a sweet, sparkling crust on top of the bars.
• Red and green sprinkles – perfect for adding a jolly, festive decoration to your cookies.
• Optional: 1 cup frosting – use store-bought or homemade to elevate your festive Christmas sugar cookie bars even more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later. You’ll want to get this warming up while you prepare your dough, filling your kitchen with that cozy baking spirit.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt until combined. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars. Set this mixture aside as you prepare 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 granulated sugar. Beat for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This fluffy base is essential for the delicious, melt-in-your-mouth quality of the cookie bars.
Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Extracts
Add in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined. You should see a smooth and creamy texture forming, which will help imbue your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars with that signature flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough bars. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky, perfect for spreading into the baking pan.
Step 6: Spread the Dough
Pour the cookie dough into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to evenly spread the dough across the bottom, ensuring it covers the entire surface without leaving any gaps. The dough should form a nice, even layer, ready for baking!
Step 7: Add the Sweet Topping
Sprinkle the top of the prepared dough with ¼ cup of granulated sugar, distributing it evenly for a sweet, sparkling crust. This step adds both texture and a beautiful finish to your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, making them even more irresistible.
Step 8: Bake the Bars
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through the kitchen will signal that these treats are on their way to perfection!
Step 9: Cool the Bars
Once baked, carefully remove the cookie bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. You want them to settle and hold their shape before transferring them to the wire rack for further cooling.
Step 10: Frost and Decorate
After the cookie bars are completely cooled, spread your choice of frosting over the top, if desired. Then, generously sprinkle with red and green sprinkles for that festive touch. These vibrant decorations will bring your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars to life, ready for cutting!
Step 11: Cut and Serve
Once decorated, cut the bars into squares or rectangles, and they're ready to be enjoyed. Serve them at holiday gatherings, or pack them for festive treats with family and friends. Let the warmth of these homemade cookies fill your celebrations with joy!
Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Variations
Get creative with your cookie bars and let your taste buds explore delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a delicious alternative.
- Add Chocolate: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips (semi-sweet or white chocolate) for a rich, decadent flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dough for a refreshing, zesty kick that dances on your palate!
- Spiced Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to infuse your bars with lovely warm spices reminiscent of holiday warmth.
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch that complements the soft, chewy texture beautifully.
- Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute; you’ll still get the soft texture with a hint of tropical flavor.
- Frosting Alternatives: Switch out classic frosting with a cream cheese or lemon icing to add an extra layer of tanginess.
- Heat It Up: If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create a cookie bar that truly reflects your holiday spirit. Whether you stick to the traditional flavors or venture into new territories, these Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are sure to be a hit! And while you're at it, why not try pairing them with a hot cup of cocoa for that cozy winter vibe?
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 flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep them a bit longer, refrigerate the bars for up to a week. Be sure to use a tightly sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookie bars wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving or enjoy them slightly frozen!
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This restores that gooey texture and brings out the festive flavors!
Expert Tips for Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a lighter texture, preventing dense bars.
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Don’t Overmix: Combine the wet and dry ingredients slowly, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can create tough bars instead of soft ones.
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Chill the Dough: For a firmer dough, consider chilling it for 30 minutes before spreading in the pan. This helps maintain shape and improves texture.
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Oven Timing: Keep an eye on baking times. Every oven is different; check for the golden edges and a toothpick that comes out clean to avoid underbaking.
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Creative Toppings: Feel free to customize toppings! Use colored sugars, or add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for a unique twist on the classic Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, spread the dough in your prepared pan and bake as directed. Additionally, you can frost the bars a day before serving; just be sure to store them in an airtight container to keep the frosting fresh and the bars soft. This way, you'll have delicious, fresh-tasting cookie bars ready to impress your friends and family while enjoying your time together!
What to Serve with Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
Indulging in these festive treats is even more delightful when you pair them with complementary dishes that enhance the holiday spirit.
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Cozy Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy texture of hot cocoa balances the sweetness of the bars, making for a comforting duo perfect for chilly evenings.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop atop the bars adds a light, airy contrast, enhancing the festive experience while making every bite even sweeter.
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Eggnog: This classic holiday drink pairs beautifully with the cookies, creating a delightful flavor fusion that feels like a warm hug in a glass.
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Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: Served alongside, the cold, creamy scoop brings a lovely textural contrast that makes your holiday dessert table unforgettable.
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Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a burst of bright flavors and colors, cleansing the palate between each sweet bite and adding a festive touch.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai complement the almond and vanilla notes in the cookie bars, creating a comforting and aromatic combination.
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Gingerbread Cookies: For a festive twist, serve alongside chewy gingerbread cookies to create a delightful holiday treat platter that everyone will enjoy!
Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
How can I select ripe ingredients for my Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, ensure your butter is softened and at room temperature for easy mixing. Look for flour that is fresh, as older flour can lead to denser bars. For the best flavor, use pure vanilla and almond extracts rather than imitation ones.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookie bars?
Store your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze the cookie bars, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars for longer storage! First, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for an hour.
What should I do if my cookie bars turn out dense or dry?
Very! If your bars are dense, it might be due to overmixing the dough. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. For dry bars, ensure your butter is sufficiently softened before creaming, and consider slightly reducing the baking time. Baking times can vary by oven, so keep an eye for golden edges and do the toothpick test for doneness.
Are these cookie bars safe for pets or those with allergies?
The Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars contain common allergens like gluten (flour), eggs, and dairy (butter), so they may not be suitable for those with gluten or dairy allergies. Additionally, avoid sharing these treats with pets, as ingredients like butter and sugar are not beneficial for them. Always check for specific allergies before serving!
Can I substitute ingredients for dietary preferences?
Certainly! If you need to make the bars dairy-free, substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the texture slightly, but they can still result in delicious bars!
Indulge in Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars This Holiday!
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour ensures a soft, chewy texture
- 1 teaspoon baking powder helps the bars rise
- 0.5 teaspoon salt balances sweetness
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened adds richness
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar sweetens the dough
- 1 large egg binds ingredients together
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract infuses warm notes
- 0.5 teaspoon almond extract adds a delightful twist
For the Topping
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar for sprinkling
- red and green sprinkles for decoration
- 1 cup frosting optional for elevation
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the egg, vanilla, and almond extracts into the butter-sugar mixture.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Sprinkle the top with granulated sugar for a sweet crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Spread frosting over cooled bars and top with sprinkles.
- Cut into squares and serve at gatherings.
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