Description
An easy, modern twist on classic sugar cookies, these deliciously soft sugar cookie bars are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Pink food coloring gel (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9 x 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, lightly greased.
- In a large bowl, combine softened butter and sugar; beat until fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla, almond extracts, and cream cheese; mix until combined.
- Gradually add baking powder and flour, mixing until just combined.
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are light golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by beating together softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla; add food coloring if desired.
- Spread frosting on cooled bars, top with sprinkles, and cut into squares.
- Enjoy!
Notes
For best results, ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. Store bars in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg