Delicious Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe for Holiday Cheer

As the holiday season rolls around, there’s something undeniably magical about the air filled with the scent of freshly baked cookies. I still remember the first time I baked sugar cookies with my grandmother. The kitchen was a flurry of flour, laughter, and a sprinkle of sugar — a cozy haven where our large family would gather after a long day of holiday preparations. Now, while I cherish those traditional sugar cookies, I’ve whipped up a delicious twist: Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars! These bars are perfect for sharing, surprisingly simple to make, and evoke the same nostalgic warmth we all adore when it comes to holiday baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are a game changer for anyone who loves a sweet treat without the fuss of rolling and cutting dough. They bake up beautifully in a single pan and, while they may look elegant, they come together in no time at all! Plus, they’re soft and chewy, with a delicate sweetness that pairs perfectly with a glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa. If you’re looking for something that’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and undeniably festive, trust me on this one—this recipe is a must-try!

What It Tastes Like

Imagine biting into a soft, buttery square of cookie goodness, with a sprinkle of colorful holiday sprinkles on top. The texture is akin to sinking into your favorite armchair on a cold day—comfortable and oh-so-satisfying. Each bite melts in your mouth, with hints of vanilla dancing alongside subtle notes of almond. The sweetness is perfectly balanced, making them a delightful treat that doesn’t overpower your taste buds. It’s like that first warm bite after a long day—pure bliss, trust me!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the lovely base of your bars, giving them structure.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds that creamy richness we all crave in a cookie.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness, of course! It makes everything better.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A core flavor that brings warmth and nostalgia.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract: A lovely touch that elevates the flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise just enough to become perfectly chewy.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances out the sweetness beautifully.
• Sprinkles: Deck these bars out for the festive season!

Optional Additions: If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add a cup of white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for an extra layer of flavor and crunch? And here’s a secret—try adding a pinch of cinnamon for those warm, holiday vibes!

Special Garnishes: A drizzle of melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar can take these bars to the next level. They’ll look like they came straight from a fancy bakery!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get baking? Here’s how to whip up these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later—trust me, this step is key!
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take about 3 minutes—don’t rush it! It’s where the magic begins.
3. Add in the egg, vanilla, and almond extracts. Mix until well combined—this is when the beautiful scents start to fill your kitchen.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until everything is just combined; you want to avoid overmixing.
5. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. It might be a little sticky, but use a spatula to smooth it out. And don’t skip this part—your bars will bake more evenly if you take the time to get it right!
6. Sprinkle generously with festive sprinkles—get creative here! Now, pop it into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Trust me, the anticipation will be worth it!

Recipe Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun variations:

• Flavors: Mix in some zest from an orange or lemon for a refreshing twist.
• Different Sprinkles: Use festive colors or themed shapes depending on the holiday—hearts for Valentine’s Day, or pumpkins for Halloween!
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

Serving & Storage Tips

Once these beauties are cool, slice them into bars and arrange them on a festive platter. Not only do they look gorgeous, but they’re also perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings. To store any leftovers (if there are any!), keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn! When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Helpful Tips

Here’s a friendly tip: be careful not to overbake these seductively soft bars! I remember burning the first batch — learn from my mistake and keep a close eye in those final minutes. Also, measuring your flour correctly is crucial. Avoid packing it into the cup—spoon it into the measuring cup instead, then level it off. This ensures your bars won’t turn out dry!

Special Equipment

• Mixing Bowls: A set of mixing bowls in different sizes will make it easier to combine your ingredients.
• Rubber Spatula: Ideal for folding in your ingredients without overmixing in the mixing bowl.
• Baking Pan: A good quality 9×13 inch pan is essential for even baking.

FAQ Section

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before spreading it into the pan and baking.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While I prefer the flavor of butter, you can use margarine in a pinch! Just know it may alter the taste slightly.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

No worries! You can skip it, or substitute with an extra splash of vanilla for a lovely flavor. It’ll still be delicious!

How do I know when they are fully baked?

Look for a light golden edge around the bars, and do the toothpick test. Insert it in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go!

Conclusion

And there you have it — a warm, cozy baking experience with joyous results! These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars have become a delightful staple in my holiday tradition, bringing smiles to family and friends alike. I hope you give them a shot soon, and I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Remember, the best part of baking is not just the sweet treats but the lovely memories created along the way. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter this season!

Print