This festive cookie bar recipe is perfect for any celebration or holiday gathering. It’s simple to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its delightful combination of cookie base and creamy frosting.
Ingredients:
- Cookie Base:
- 1 package sugar cookie mix (17.5 oz)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles (red and green)
- Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cookie Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, softened butter, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the holiday sprinkles evenly over the top of the dough.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookie base to cool completely in the baking dish.
- Make the Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cookie Bars:
- Once the cookie base is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
- Add additional holiday sprinkles on top of the frosting, if desired, for extra festive flair.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Cut the frosted cookie bars into squares and serve.
- These bars are best enjoyed with friends and family during any festive occasion.
Detailed Steps:
- Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature by the time you finish preparing the cookie dough.
- Mixing the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, softened butter, and egg. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat the ingredients together until they form a soft dough.
- Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring an even layer. This will create the base for your cookie bars.
- Adding Sprinkles:
- Sprinkle the holiday sprinkles evenly over the dough. Gently press them into the dough to ensure they stick during baking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Preparing the Frosting:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Beat together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. This prevents the sugar from flying everywhere and ensures a smooth consistency.
- Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy.
- Frosting the Cookie Bars:
- Once the cookie base is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to smooth it out, ensuring an even layer.
- Add additional holiday sprinkles on top of the frosting for a festive touch.
- Cutting and Serving:
- Cut the frosted cookie bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
- Arrange them on a serving platter and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Flavor Variations: You can add a teaspoon of almond extract or peppermint extract to the frosting for a different flavor profile.
- Color Variations: Change the color of the sprinkles and frosting to match different holidays or celebrations.
- Add-Ins: Incorporate mini chocolate chips or crushed candy canes into the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover cookie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
These festive cookie bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. The combination of a soft cookie base with creamy frosting and festive sprinkles makes them perfect for any holiday celebration. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful treats with your loved ones!
