Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars
These Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars deliver the classic soft, buttery flavor of sugar cookies without the hassle. Topped with creamy almond frosting, they are easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings, holidays, or everyday treats.
35 Servings
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars:
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup butter softened at room temperature
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons almond extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup butter softened at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 cups confectioners' sugar
- 5 tablespoons heavy whipping cream or as needed
Instructions
Prepare the Baking Pan
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13x18-inch baking sheet to prevent sticking and set aside.
Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white sugar and 1 cup of softened butter. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the almond extract and vanilla extract, mixing until evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a smooth and soft dough forms.
Bake the Cookie Bars
- Evenly spread the dough into the prepared baking sheet, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top will appear pale rather than golden. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely, approximately 30 minutes.
Prepare the Frosting
- While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat ½ cup of softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add the almond extract and salt, mixing until combined. Gradually incorporate the confectioners' sugar, one cup at a time. Add heavy whipping cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a soft and spreadable consistency.
Frost and Serve
- Once the cookie bars have cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the surface. Slice into bars and serve as desired.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients, such as baking soda and extracts, are certified gluten-free to prevent cross-contamination.