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As the holiday season approaches, the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods fills our homes, and one treat that consistently brings joy and nostalgia is the classic sugar cookie. These sweet, buttery bites have been a staple for generations, often adorning festive tables, gift exchanges, and family gatherings. Whether it's the simple pleasure of decorating them with loved ones or the excitement of sharing them with neighbors, sugar cookies embody the spirit of the holidays.

Frosted Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Get ready for the holiday season with these easy cake recipes and a quick brownie recipe that everyone will love! Perfect for festive gatherings, these treats are not only simple to make but also beautifully shareable, ensuring your celebrations are filled with sweet joy. Don’t forget to check out the afterka for more delightful ideas! EasyCakeRecipes QuickBrownieRecipe HolidayBaking FestiveTreats BakingWithKids ChristmasDesserts SweetTreats
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Ingredients
  

For the cookie bars:

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

1 large egg

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For the frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Food coloring (red and green, for decorating)

Festive sprinkles (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.

      Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).

        Add Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.

          Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

            Spread in Pan: Pour the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

              Cool Bars: Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

                Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more cream.

                  Frost the Bars: Once the cookie bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

                    Decorate: Divide the frosting into two bowls and color one red and the other green. Use a piping bag (or zip-top bag with a corner cut off) to drizzle the colored frosting over the white frosting. Sprinkle with festive sprinkles if desired.

                      Cut and Serve: Once decorated, cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve them. Enjoy your festive treat!

                        Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 24 bars