Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Introduction
Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive and delicious treat perfect for celebrations. These bars combine classic sugar cookie flavors with colorful red, white, and blue sprinkles for a fun, eye-catching dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Red, white, and blue sprinkles, as desired
- Vanilla frosting
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until fully combined.
- Step 5: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 7: Allow the bars to cool completely before spreading a generous layer of vanilla frosting on top.
- Step 8: Decorate with red, white, and blue sprinkles for a patriotic finish.
- Step 9: Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla.
- Use cream cheese frosting as a tangy alternative to vanilla frosting.
- Substitute sprinkles with fresh berries for a natural red and blue decoration.
Storage
Store the sugar cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Let bars come to room temperature before serving. If refrigerated, allow frosting to soften slightly before cutting.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measure to make the bars gluten-free.
Can I freeze Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting and adding sprinkles.
PrintPatriotic Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Celebrate any patriotic occasion with these delightful Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars. Soft, buttery sugar cookie bars are topped with smooth vanilla frosting and vibrant red, white, and blue sprinkles, making them a festive and irresistible treat perfect for Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or any patriotic celebration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Sugar Cookie Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For the Topping
- 1 cup vanilla frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- Red, white, and blue sprinkles, to taste
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step creates a light texture for the bars.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined, ensuring the batter is smooth and fragrant.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Spread Batter and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Spread the cookie dough evenly in the pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Completely: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling ensures the frosting will not melt when applied.
- Frost the Bars: Once fully cooled, spread the vanilla frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula or butter knife.
- Decorate with Sprinkles: Generously sprinkle the red, white, and blue sprinkles over the frosted bars to create a festive patriotic look.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice into bars and serve. These bars keep well covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Notes
- You can substitute the vanilla frosting with cream cheese frosting for a tangier flavor.
- Ensure the bars are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- For a gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
- Store bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Keywords: patriotic sugar cookie bars, sugar cookie bars, fourth of july desserts, red white and blue desserts, easy sugar cookie bars
