These sugar cookie bars are incredibly soft and tender with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich vanilla flavor. The thick layer of frosting adds just the right sweetness, and you can customize the color and decorations to fit any holiday theme. They’re faster and easier than traditional sugar cookies but just as delicious—and great for serving a crowd!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cookie base:
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Almond extract (optional, for added flavor)
For the frosting:
Unsalted butter
Powdered sugar
Heavy cream or milk
Vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional, for holiday color)
Holiday sprinkles (for topping)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract (and almond extract, if using).
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or your hands to smooth the top.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden and the center is set.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
To make the frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with small amounts of cream or milk.
Mix in vanilla extract and food coloring if desired.
Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
Decorate with holiday sprinkles, then slice into squares or rectangles.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20–24 bars. Prep time: 15 minutes Bake time: 20 minutes Cooling and decorating time: 30 minutes Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
Flavor twist: Add a teaspoon of peppermint, orange, or lemon extract to the dough or frosting.
Color theme: Use red and green food coloring in the frosting for Christmas, or match it to any holiday or event.
Frosting swap: Use cream cheese frosting for a tangier, richer topping.
Funfetti style: Mix holiday sprinkles directly into the dough before baking.
Gluten-free version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Storage/Reheating
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. To freeze, place unfrosted or frosted bars in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. No reheating is necessary.
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake and frost them up to 2 days in advance. Store covered at room temperature or in the fridge.
Should I refrigerate frosted cookie bars?
They don’t need refrigeration, but storing them in the fridge will keep them fresh longer. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger sheet pan. Adjust the baking time as needed.
How do I know when the bars are done?
The edges will be lightly golden, and the center should be set but still soft. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender.
Can I use store-bought frosting?
Yes, for convenience, you can use your favorite canned frosting, though homemade tastes best.
How do I get clean cuts?
Chill the bars before slicing and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat squares.
Can I make these cookie bars without almond extract?
Absolutely. Almond extract adds flavor, but you can leave it out or replace it with extra vanilla.
Do these bars freeze well?
Yes, they freeze beautifully. Freeze frosted or unfrosted bars in airtight containers with parchment between layers.
What type of sprinkles work best?
Any holiday-themed sprinkles work well—jimmies, nonpareils, or sugar crystals are all festive choices.
Can I make them in a different pan?
Yes, but baking time may vary. For thicker bars, use a smaller pan; for thinner ones, use a sheet pan and reduce the time.
Conclusion
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive, fuss-free way to enjoy the flavor of classic sugar cookies without all the rolling and cutting. With their soft texture, rich frosting, and endless decorating possibilities, they’re a holiday must-have. Perfect for parties, gifting, or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to bring sweetness and cheer to your celebrations.
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are soft, thick sugar cookies baked in a single pan and topped with creamy frosting and festive sprinkles. They’re an easy and fun alternative to classic cut-out cookies—perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, and gift trays.
Ingredients
For the cookie base:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For the frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Red or green food coloring (optional)
Holiday sprinkles for topping
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and almond extract (if using).
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
Press dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and center is set. Do not overbake.
Let cool completely in the pan before frosting.
To make the frosting: Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk or cream, until smooth and spreadable.
Mix in vanilla extract and food coloring if desired.
Spread frosting over cooled cookie bars. Top with holiday sprinkles.
Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
Add a teaspoon of peppermint, orange, or lemon extract to the dough or frosting for a flavor twist.Use cream cheese frosting for a tangy variation.Mix sprinkles directly into the dough for a funfetti-style bar.Chill bars before slicing for clean, sharp edges.Bars can be frozen frosted or unfrosted for up to 2 months.
