The holidays are the perfect time to indulge in sweet treats that bring warmth and joy, and these Christmas sugar cookie bars are just that. They combine the classic buttery flavor of sugar cookies with the ease of a bar dessert, making them perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe for christmas sugar cookie bars is straightforward, quick, and yields a delicious, tender, and festive dessert. You’ll love how simple it is to create a batch that’s full of holiday cheer and perfect for sharing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Easy to make—no rolling or cutting individual cookies.
- Soft, chewy texture with a buttery, sweet flavor.
- Customizable with festive sprinkles or toppings.
- Perfect for gifting or party platters.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your homemade Christmas sugar cookie bars come to life:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ½ cup festive colored sprinkles (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-28 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 16 bars
- Calories: Approximately 220 per bar
How to Make Best Easy Homemade Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars for a Festive Delight
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until creamy and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Stir just until combined.
- Fold in half of the festive sprinkles gently into the batter to distribute color.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining sprinkles evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25-28 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before removing and cutting into 16 squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired for an extra festive touch.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and better texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep bars tender.
- Line your baking pan with parchment to make removal and cleanup easier.
- Customize sprinkles or add a drizzle of white chocolate for extra holiday flair.
- Cool bars completely before slicing to maintain clean edges.
Storage and Reheating
Store your Christmas sugar cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they will keep fresh for up to a week.
If you want to freeze the bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving to enjoy a fresh-baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid making the bars too salty.
Can I make these sugar cookie bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free sugar cookie bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour blend. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
How should I store leftover cookie bars?
Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or refrigerate to extend freshness up to a week. Freezing is also a great option for longer storage.
Can I add other flavors or toppings?
Absolutely! Try adding lemon zest, almond extract, or decorating with frosting, nuts, or chocolate drizzle to personalize the bars for your holiday celebration.
