Star-Spangled Sugar Cookie Bars

introduction

Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars are a fun and festive treat perfect for any celebration, especially those that involve patriotic themes like Independence Day or Memorial Day. These cookie bars are soft, chewy, and topped with a creamy frosting that makes them irresistible. The addition of red, white, and blue sprinkles not only adds color but also makes them visually appealing!

why make this recipe

This recipe is great because it combines the joy of sugar cookies with the convenience of bars, making it easier to serve a crowd. You don’t have to worry about rolling out individual cookies; instead, you can simply cut these bars into perfect squares. Plus, they look stunning on any dessert table, making them a hit at gatherings and parties.

how to make Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Red, white, and blue sprinkles

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
8. In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.
9. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars.
10. Top with red, white, and blue sprinkles for a festive touch.
11. Cut into squares and serve.

how to serve Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

These cookie bars can be served as a fun dessert during picnics, barbecues, or holiday gatherings. Plate them on a large tray for everyone to enjoy, and consider adding some extra sprinkles on top for added flair.

how to store Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they are sealed properly to maintain freshness.

tips to make Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

• Make sure your butter is softened; this helps to create a smooth and creamy batter.
• Don’t overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep the bars soft.
• Experiment with different colors of sprinkles for other festive occasions.
• For a chocolate twist, you could add chocolate chips to the batter.

variation

You can add some lime or lemon zest to the frosting for a citrusy kick. Alternatively, consider using other themed sprinkles to match different holidays or events throughout the year.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars?
   Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

2. What can I use instead of cream cheese in the frosting?
   You can use whipped cream or a buttercream frosting instead of cream cheese for a different taste and texture.

3. Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
   Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1. Adjust baking time if necessary.

Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Fun and festive treat perfect for patriotic celebrations, soft and chewy cookie bars topped with creamy frosting and sprinkles.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 squares

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the cookie bars

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure the butter is softened for better mixing.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the frosting

• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Red, white, and blue sprinkles For topping

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Baking

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.

Frosting

1. In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.
3. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars.
4. Top with red, white, and blue sprinkles for a festive touch.

Serving

1. Cut into squares and serve. These cookie bars can be served during picnics, barbecues, or holiday gatherings.

Notes

Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate for up to a week. Make sure they are sealed properly to maintain freshness.