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Easy Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars: Perfect Holiday Treat

Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars - featured image
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Soft, chewy, and festive sugar cookie bars that are quick to make and perfect for holiday gatherings. These bars feature a tender, pillowy texture with a buttery crust, topped with red and green sprinkles and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional, but recommended)
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Red and green festive sprinkles
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and sour cream (if using). Mix until just combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough will be thick and sticky.
  6. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan, pressing it down firmly to fill the corners.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set but still slightly soft.
  8. Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Once cool, sprinkle with festive sprinkles and dust with powdered sugar. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough bars. Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for proper emulsification. Check bars at 20 minutes as oven temperatures vary. Cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts. For gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas cookies, sugar cookie bars, holiday baking, easy dessert, festive treats, soft cookies, sheet pan cookies

Find it online: https://lindabake.com/easy-festive-christmas-sugar-cookie-bars-perfect-holiday-treat/