Sugar Cookie Bar Recipe : 5 Sweet Ways to Impress Guests

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Introduction

Are you tired of the same old sugar cookie recipes that fall flat? Prepare to be amazed! This sugar cookie bar recipe is about to change the game. With its irresistibly gooey texture and endless customization possibilities, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser guaranteed to make your guests swoon.

Ingredients List

To whip up this decadent sugar cookie bar masterpiece, you’ll need:

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Assorted toppings (e.g., chocolate chips, sprinkles, chopped nuts)

Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like crushed peppermint, chopped dried fruit, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!

Timing

Prep time : 15 minutes
Bake time : 25-30 minutes
Total time : 40-45 minutes

That’s right, you can whip up this decadent sugar cookie bar recipe in under an hour – 20% faster than the average cookie recipe! With minimal effort, you’ll have a showstopping dessert that’s sure to delight.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and set it aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry ingredient mixture aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until no dry pockets remain. Be careful not to overmix.
Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Top with your desired toppings, pressing them gently into the dough.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the center is still slightly soft.
Allow the sugar cookie bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Nutritional Information

Serving size : 1 bar
Calories : 210
Total Fat : 11g
Saturated Fat : 7g
Cholesterol : 35mg
Sodium : 115mg
Total Carbs : 27g
Dietary Fiber : 1g
Sugars : 16g
Protein : 2g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a healthier twist, try swapping out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or almond flour. You can also reduce the amount of sugar by using a combination of granulated and brown sugar, or opt for a calorie-free sweetener like erythritol or stevia. Additionally, consider using dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts as toppings for an extra nutritional boost.

Serving Suggestions

These sugar cookie bars are delicious on their own, but they also make a fantastic base for endless flavor combinations. Try topping them with a drizzle of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of crushed peppermint, or a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. You can even serve them à la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the dough, which can result in tough, dense bars
Overbaking, which can dry out the cookies
Skimping on the butter or using a lower-quality brand
Forgetting to grease the pan, causing the bars to stick

Storing Tips for the Recipe

These sugar cookie bars will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Get ready to wow your guests with this irresistible sugar cookie bar recipe! With its perfect balance of sweet, buttery goodness and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a storm. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!

FAQs

Q: Can I make these sugar cookie bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These bars actually get better with time. You can make them up to 5 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q: Do I have to use all-purpose flour, or can I substitute another type?
A: You can definitely experiment with different flours. Whole wheat, almond, or even gluten-free flour blends can work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the texture and baking time may vary slightly.

Q: How can I make the bars extra chewy?
A: For a chewier texture, try adding an extra egg yolk to the dough or using brown sugar in place of some of the granulated sugar.

Q: Can I double the recipe to feed a crowd?
A: Yes, you can easily double all the ingredients and bake the bars in a larger 9×18 inch pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as a larger pan may require a few extra minutes in the oven.