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Delicious Classic Sugar Cookie Bars with Modern Frosting

These soft and chewy sugar cookie bars are topped with a creamy modern frosting, making them perfect for any occasion with less fuss than individual cookies.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baking Recipe, Easy Desserts, frosted cookie bars, Soft Cookies, sugar cookie bars
Servings: 12 bars
Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

For the bars

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use room temperature butter for better creaming.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 0.5 teaspoon almond extract, optional Adds a lovely flavor.
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Spoon and level to prevent dry bars.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon fine salt A pinch balances sweetness.
  • 0.33 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt Helps keep bars soft.

For the modern frosting

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2.5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk, as needed To reach desired spreadable consistency.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13 inch metal pan with parchment, leaving overhang.
  • Cream butter and sugar for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and almond extract.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add dry ingredients to wet in two additions and mix on low just to combine.
  • Fold in sour cream until the batter looks smooth and thick.

Baking

  • Spread batter evenly in the pan using a small offset spatula.
  • Bake for 16 to 20 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
  • Cool completely in the pan. Lift out with the parchment sling.

Frosting

  • Beat cream cheese and butter until very smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  • Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Beat on low to combine, then on medium till creamy.
  • Adjust with cream to reach a spreadable, pillowy texture.
  • Spread frosting over the cooled bars and chill for cleaner cuts.

Notes

Tips for success include using room temperature ingredients, not overbaking, and measuring flour correctly.