Introduction to The Best Sugar Cookie Bars (thick, chewy, + soft)
Welcome to a world of sweetness with The Best Sugar Cookie Bars! As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, and these bars are the perfect solution for those hectic days when you need a quick treat. Imagine thick, chewy, and irresistibly soft cookie bars that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring smiles to your loved ones. Whether it’s a last-minute dessert for a gathering or a cozy family snack, these bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This The Best Sugar Cookie Bars (thick, chewy, + soft)
These sugar cookie bars are a dream come true for busy lives! They come together in just 40 minutes, making them a quick and easy dessert option. The thick, chewy, and soft texture is simply irresistible, and they’re perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can customize them with sprinkles or flavors to suit your family’s taste. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients for The Best Sugar Cookie Bars (thick, chewy, + soft)
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating The Best Sugar Cookie Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your bars, providing structure and chewiness.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bars rise, giving them that thick texture.
- Baking soda: It works alongside baking powder to create a soft, chewy consistency.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter is key for a rich, creamy base that makes the bars melt in your mouth.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener adds the perfect amount of sweetness and contributes to the chewy texture.
- Large egg: It binds the ingredients together and adds moisture, making the bars soft.
- Vanilla extract: A must-have for flavor, it brings warmth and depth to your cookie bars.
- Almond extract (optional): This adds a delightful twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Sprinkles (optional): These are perfect for adding a fun, festive touch to your bars.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make The Best Sugar Cookie Bars (thick, chewy, + soft)
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create The Best Sugar Cookie Bars that are thick, chewy, and irresistibly soft. Trust me, the process is as enjoyable as the end result!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for even baking. While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. A little butter or cooking spray will do the trick. This sets the stage for perfect baking!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour. It’s a small but mighty step that makes a big difference in texture!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for texture, as it incorporates air into the batter, making your bars soft and chewy.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, add the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. This adds flavor and moisture, making your cookie bars even more delightful!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough bars. We want them to be soft and chewy, not dense!
Step 6: Add Sprinkles
If you’re feeling festive, fold in the sprinkles at this stage. They add a fun touch to your cookie bars and make them visually appealing. Who doesn’t love a pop of color in their treats?
Step 7: Spread and Bake
Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect golden edge!
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely. This helps maintain their shape when you cut them into bars. Patience is key here, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and a better texture.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the bars set properly.
- For extra flavor, try adding lemon zest or a dash of cinnamon.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Equipment Needed for The Best Sugar Cookie Bars (thick, chewy, + soft)
- 9×13 inch baking pan (a glass or metal pan works well)
- Mixing bowls (a large and a medium bowl for convenience)
- Whisk (a fork can substitute in a pinch)
- Spatula (a rubber spatula is great for spreading)
- Measuring cups and spoons (or a kitchen scale for precision)
Variations of The Best Sugar Cookie Bars (thick, chewy, + soft)
- Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Bars: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips for a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens up the bars.
- Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars: Top with a simple buttercream frosting for an extra layer of sweetness and decoration.
Serving Suggestions for The Best Sugar Cookie Bars (thick, chewy, + soft)
- Pair with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Top with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Wrap in colorful cellophane for a delightful gift!
FAQs about The Best Sugar Cookie Bars (thick, chewy, + soft)
Can I make these sugar cookie bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before spreading it in the pan.
How do I store leftover sugar cookie bars?
Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months!
Can I use different extracts in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like coconut or maple for a unique flavor twist. Just remember to adjust the quantity to your taste.
Why are my sugar cookie bars not chewy?
If your bars turned out more cake-like, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Make sure to measure accurately and mix just until combined for that perfect chewy texture!
Can I add mix-ins to the sugar cookie bars?
Definitely! Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit can be folded into the batter for added flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that this may change the baking time slightly.
Final Thoughts on The Best Sugar Cookie Bars (thick, chewy, + soft)
Making The Best Sugar Cookie Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with your family. The thick, chewy, and soft texture makes each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these bars are sure to bring joy to your table. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can whip them up even on the busiest days. So, gather your loved ones, share a few laughs, and indulge in these delicious treats. Trust me, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your home!
Print
The Best Sugar Cookie Bars: Thick, Chewy, and Irresistibly Soft!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These sugar cookie bars are thick, chewy, and irresistibly soft, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- If using, fold in the sprinkles.
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding lemon zest or almond extract.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg