Description
Soft, buttery cookie bars studded with festive red and green sprinkles, these holiday cookie bars are a delightful treat perfect for Christmas parties or cookie exchanges. Easy to make and bursting with vanilla flavor, they can be topped with a creamy frosting for added sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup red and green sprinkles (or holiday-colored sprinkles)
For frosting (optional):
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Holiday sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract (and almond extract if using).
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in holiday sprinkles.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan.
- (Optional) For frosting, beat softened butter until smooth, gradually adding powdered sugar. Mix in vanilla extract and milk until a smooth consistency is reached.
- Spread frosting over cooled bars and garnish with holiday sprinkles.
Notes
- To make the bars even more festive, use a mix of red and green sanding sugar or metallic holiday sprinkles.
- Frosting is optional but adds a rich, sweet layer to the bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American