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Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

4.8 from 74 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Frost the Bars: Once fully cooled, spread the vanilla frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula or butter knife.
  7. Decorate with Sprinkles: Generously sprinkle the red, white, and blue sprinkles over the frosted bars to create a festive patriotic look.
  8. 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