Name: Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup melted unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 egg; 1 ½ cups gluten free flour (see note); 1 tbsp milk; ½ tsp sea salt; Frosting (quantity as desired); Sprinkles (quantity as desired)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 36 reviews

If you are craving a delightful treat that’s both nostalgic and easy to make, this Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the classic, buttery sweetness of sugar cookies transformed into a soft, chewy bar that’s perfect for sharing (or savoring all by yourself). With a simple gluten free flour blend and a luscious frosting topped with sprinkles, these bars offer the best of comfort and celebration in every bite. Whether it’s a casual snack or a festive addition to your dessert table, this Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface: a large white bowl filled with white flour with a light indentation in the center, a measuring cup with bright yellow melted butter, a small white bowl filled with dark brown vanilla extract, a white egg, a small white bowl with a smooth white liquid (likely cream or milk), and a white bowl filled with granulated white sugar. All items are neat and clean, placed close to each other. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients is all it takes to create these dreamy sugar cookie bars. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of richness, texture, and flavor that makes this recipe so irresistible.

½ cup melted unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender, moist crumb.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bars and helps achieve a slight crispness on the edges.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, fragrant flavor that elevates the taste.
1 egg: Provides structure and binds the ingredients together effortlessly.
1 ½ cups gluten free flour: Keeps the bars light and tender, perfect for gluten sensitivity (see note below).
1 tbsp milk: Adds moisture, ensuring the dough doesn’t dry out during baking.
½ tsp sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Frosting: A creamy topping that adds richness and a hint of sweetness contrast.
Sprinkles: The fun, colorful touch that makes these bars extra festive and inviting.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and prepare your pan

Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. This not only stops the bars from sticking but also makes for easy cleanup and removal once baked.

Step 2: Cream butter and sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is creamy and frothy. This creates the base of the dough, ensuring a smooth texture and the perfect sweetness level.

Step 3: Add vanilla and egg

Next, pour in the vanilla extract and egg. Stir everything together until fully incorporated. This step adds essential flavor and helps bind the dough components.

Step 4: Mix in dry ingredients

Add the gluten free flour, milk, and sea salt to the bowl. Stir gently until the dough comes together. The flour provides the structure, the milk keeps it moist, and the salt sharpens the sweetness, balancing the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Press dough into the pan

Transfer the dough to your lined pan and press it into an even layer. This ensures consistent thickness and even baking, giving you those perfect bars every time.

Step 6: Bake to perfection

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You want to see lightly golden edges while the center still looks soft. This guarantees a tender, chewy texture with just a hint of crisp at the edges.

Step 7: Cool and decorate

Once out of the oven, let the bars cool completely in the pan. After cooling, frost the surface and sprinkle on your favorite sprinkles. This final touch adds sweetness and a playful pop of color.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a single-layer square dessert with smooth, thick pink frosting covering the top. The frosting has a creamy texture with a few gentle swirls and ridges, creating a soft, inviting look. Colorful, long sprinkles in shades of purple, blue, green, yellow, white, and orange are scattered all over the pink frosting, adding bright pops of color. The dessert is set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While frosting and sprinkles are classic, consider experimenting with crushed nuts, edible glitter, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar to complement the bars. These garnishes not only enhance flavor but also provide a beautiful presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a cold glass of milk, a cup of rich coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience. Fresh berries or a tangy fruit compote can also brighten up the richness and provide a delightful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, arrange the Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe squares on a colorful platter with mini flags or personalized notes. Wrapping individual bars in parchment tied with twine makes for charming, homemade gifts everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover sugar cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful without drying out.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without loss of taste or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy the bars warm, thaw frozen bars overnight in the fridge, then gently warm them in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked feel and enhances the frosting’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten free flour in this Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe?

Yes, all-purpose flour can replace gluten free flour if you do not have gluten sensitivities. The texture will be similar, just be sure to measure accurately for best results.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use a plant-based milk instead of cow’s milk. The bars will retain their delicious flavor and texture.

How thick should I press the dough into the pan?

Aim for an even layer roughly ½ to ¾ inch thick. This thickness ensures the bars bake uniformly and achieve the perfect chewy softness without becoming too cakey.

Can I add other flavors to the frosting?

Definitely! Try adding lemon zest, almond extract, or even a light dusting of cinnamon to the frosting for a unique twist that complements the sugar cookie base beautifully.

What’s the best way to cut the bars without cracking the frosting?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Cutting once the bars are completely cooled and the frosting has set will help you get clean, smooth squares without drag marks.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about a homemade treat that’s as simple to make as it is delightful to eat. This Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe embodies that joy in every bite, blending classic flavors with convenience and fun. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these bars promise smiles, sweet moments, and perhaps a few happy cravings satisfied. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new go-to dessert!