Description
Celebrate Independence Day with these festive 4th of July Sugar Cookie Bars! Bursting with patriotic red, white, and blue colors, these cookie bars are not only visually appealing but also a deliciously soft and chewy treat the whole family will love. Topped with creamy frosting and customizable decorations, they are perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any summer gathering. With easy preparation steps and a delightful flavor profile, you can whip up these bars to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether enjoyed as is or adorned with fresh fruits and sprinkles, they’re sure to be the highlight of your dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg (room temperature)
- 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
- 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 tsp. almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1/4 tsp. baking soda
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 cup sprinkles
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) for frosting
- 2 tsp. vanilla extract for frosting
- 2–3 cups powdered sugar for frosting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9X13 inch casserole dish with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides of the pan.
- In a stand mixer, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in one whole egg, one egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well blended.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Once combined, gently fold in the sprinkles.
- Transfer the dough into the prepared pan and press it flat. Bake for about 16–20 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
- For frosting, beat together remaining butter with vanilla extract. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Once the bars are cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper, spread frosting over the top, and decorate as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie bar (45g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Customize frosting sweetness by adjusting powdered sugar levels. Allow bars to cool completely for cleaner cuts when slicing.