Delicious Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars (The Easy Way)

Looking for a festive treat that’s quick, easy, and sure to be a holiday hit? Christmas sugar cookie bars are here to save the day! These soft and chewy cookie bars are packed with holiday cheer, colorful sprinkles, and a hint of buttery sweetness. Perfect for parties, gifting, or a cozy night in, they’re as delightful to make as they are to eat.

Ingredients

For the Bars:

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)

For the Frosting:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

2–3 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Red and green food coloring (optional)

Christmas sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.

Step 2: Bake the Bars

Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Use your hands or a spatula to smooth the surface.

Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking for soft and chewy bars.

Let the bars cool completely in the pan.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed.

Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream (one tablespoon at a time) until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

Divide the frosting if you’d like multiple colors, and tint with red or green food coloring.

Step 4: Decorate and Serve

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars.

Sprinkle with festive Christmas sprinkles for a holiday touch.

Cut into squares or rectangles, and serve to your happy guests!

Helpful Notes

Customize Your Bars: Swap out almond extract for peppermint extract for a holiday twist.

Storage: Keep the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freeze Ahead: The bars (unfrosted) can be frozen for up to a month. Frost and decorate after thawing.

Quick Cleanup Tip: Line your baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy removal and cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Christmas sugar cookie bars are the perfect blend of simplicity and festivity. They save time compared to traditional rolled cookies and still capture the holiday spirit. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a sweet treat, this recipe will bring joy to your table.

Let the holiday baking begin!