Description
These Fireworks Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive and colorful treat perfect for celebrations. Soft, buttery sugar cookie bars are speckled with patriotic sprinkles and topped with a creamy, fluffy vanilla frosting. Easy to prepare and baked in a single dish, they make a delicious and visually appealing dessert for holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Bars
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup patriotic sprinkles (red, white, and blue)
Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional patriotic sprinkles for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold in Sprinkles: Gradually add the baking soda, cream of tartar, salt, and all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, mixing slowly until smooth. Gently fold in the patriotic sprinkles, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Press Dough and Bake: Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 28 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened butter for the frosting until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and heavy whipping cream, continuing to beat until the frosting becomes light and fluffy.
- Frost and Decorate: Once the cookie bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle with additional patriotic sprinkles for decoration.
- Serve: Cut into approximately 12 squares and serve. Enjoy these festive, colorful sugar cookie bars!
Notes
- Ensure the cookie bars are completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- You can substitute patriotic sprinkles with any other themed sprinkles for different occasions.
- Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- If you prefer a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar; for thinner frosting, add more heavy cream gradually.
