If you’re searching for a festive, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings all the cozy holiday vibes in every bite, you’ve got to try this Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe. It’s like all the best parts of classic sugar cookies baked into one glorious, easy-to-cut bar that’s bursting with buttery richness, a hint of vanilla, and topped with merry red and green sprinkles for extra cheer. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, family get-together, or just craving some seasonal sweetness, these bars are guaranteed to brighten up your celebrations without the fuss of rolling individual cookies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each one plays a crucial role—the butter creates that tender crumb, the sugar adds sweetness and crunch, and the hints of vanilla and almond extracts bring warmth and depth. With just a few staple items, you’re minutes away from holiday magic.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Soft butter ensures your dough mixes evenly for a smooth texture.
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender, slightly crisp bite.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough while adding richness.
- 1 large egg yolk: Adds extra moisture and a buttery finish.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the bars with classic, aromatic flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Provides subtle nutty notes that elevate the cookie’s flavor.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Creates structure, giving your bars a soft but sturdy base.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives a slight lift for a tender crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Red and green sprinkles (for topping): Makes the bars instantly festive and fun.
- 1/2 cup holiday M&Ms or crushed candy canes (optional for topping): Adds a playful crunch and extra holiday cheer.
How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to make removing your cookie bars a breeze once baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and beautifully creamy. This step is key to giving the bars a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Extracts
Beat in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re using it. This combination brings richness and that unforgettable holiday flavor that sets these bars apart.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed before combining with the wet ingredients, preventing uneven rising or salty pockets.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Mix just until combined to keep your bars tender and soft without overworking the dough.
Step 6: Press Dough into Pan and Add Toppings
Using your hands or a spatula, press the dough evenly into your prepared pan. Sprinkle generously with red and green sprinkles, and if you like an extra festive touch, scatter holiday M&Ms or crushed candy canes on top.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 22 to 26 minutes, watching for lightly golden edges and a set center. Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares to keep their shape intact.
How to Serve Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars with colorful sprinkles and candy creates a festive look, but you can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle a simple vanilla glaze to enhance sweetness and add pizzazz. Fresh cranberries or edible glitter make it extra special for the holiday table.
Side Dishes
These bars are a star on their own, but pairing them with hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or a glass of cold milk elevates the cozy experience. Serve alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread cookies or a fruitcake for a full-fledged festive dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the bars in a decorative holiday tin or wrap individual pieces in clear cellophane tied with red and green ribbon for charming homemade gifts. Arranging them on a festive platter with fresh pine sprigs or cinnamon sticks adds a beautiful, aromatic touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps maintain their soft texture and prevents the sprinkles from fading or melting.
Freezing
These bars freeze wonderfully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to retain their fresh-baked taste and texture.
Reheating
If you love warm cookie bars, briefly heat individual pieces in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This melts the candy toppings slightly and makes each bite extra comforting for chilly winter nights.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond extract with more vanilla?
Absolutely! Almond extract is optional and adds a unique flavor, but doubling the vanilla extract works perfectly if you prefer a more straightforward vanilla taste.
What if I don’t have holiday M&Ms or candy canes?
No worries! You can top your bars with any festive candies, chopped nuts, or just sprinkles alone. The key is to add a colorful, crunchy element to make them feel holiday-ready.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
To keep this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will remain delicious.
Are these bars suitable for gifting?
Definitely! They’re sturdy, easy to slice, and look festive, making them a wonderful homemade gift when wrapped beautifully.
Can I add frosting or glaze to the bars?
Yes, adding a cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla glaze is a fantastic way to dress up the bars for extra indulgence and elegance.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe is a joyful, delicious way to celebrate the season with a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to share. Its buttery richness, festive decorations, and easy preparation make it a new holiday favorite you’ll reach for year after year. Gather your loved ones, preheat the oven, and let these bars bring warmth and sweetness to your celebrations!
Print
Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, a perfect holiday treat combining soft, buttery sugar cookie dough with colorful sprinkles and optional holiday M&Ms or crushed candy canes. Easy to prepare and bake, these bars make a wonderful addition to your holiday dessert spread and are sure to bring joy to family and friends.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Toppings
- Red and green sprinkles (for topping)
- 1/2 cup holiday M&Ms or crushed candy canes (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the whole egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet butter mixture, mixing gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
- Press Dough into Pan: Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan and press it evenly using your hands or a spatula to form a uniform layer.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the top evenly with red and green sprinkles, and if desired, scatter holiday M&Ms or crushed candy canes over the surface for extra festive flavor and color.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22 to 26 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden and the center feels set to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 24 bars to serve.
Notes
- The almond extract is optional and can be substituted with an additional 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract if preferred.
- For added indulgence, top the bars with a cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla glaze after baking and cooling.
- These cookie bars freeze well and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
