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Turn ordinary sugar cookies into hassle-free bars with a rich cream cheese topping. You'll get all the yummy flavors of your favorite sugar cookies without messing with rolling and cutting dough. These treats mix a buttery, soft base with creamy frosting - they'll quickly become your go-to dessert for any gathering.
After testing batch after batch, I found that getting the butter and flour amounts just right creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture everyone loves about these bars.
Key Ingredients
High-fat European butter adds extra richness
Solid cream cheese gives the smoothest topping
Real vanilla extract enriches the flavor
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Correctly measured flour keeps everything soft
Ingredients at room temp mix together better
Baking Success Steps
Put down parchment paper so bars lift out easily.
Mix butter and sugar until they're light and fluffy.
Add dry ingredients with a gentle touch for softness.
Push the dough all the way into the pan edges.
Let them cool completely before adding topping.
Spread frosting in an even layer for best look.
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I've spent so many years tweaking this recipe, and I've learned that the little details make these taste like they're from a fancy bakery.
Impressive Serving Options
Make these bars extra special by dressing them up for different events. Try seasonal sprinkles and candy pieces for holidays, or keep it simple with just smooth frosting. For fancy parties, cut them into neat squares and stack them on a pretty serving dish with some fresh berries around them.
Fun Twists
Change these bars to match any occasion or time of year:
- Sprinkle with smashed candy canes during winter holidays
- Top with soft-colored frosting and candy eggs for spring
- Make them spooky with orange and black toppings
- Try different flavor drops for completely new tastes
Keeping Them Fresh
Your bars will stay yummy when you put them in a sealed container with wax paper between each layer. They'll taste great for about three days on your counter. Want to save them longer? Freeze the bars without frosting for up to three months, wrapped tight in plastic wrap and foil. Let them thaw in your fridge overnight, then warm to room temp before adding frosting.
Plan-Ahead Perks
These treats are perfect for making beforehand. During one super busy holiday, I made these bars days ahead and it saved me tons of stress while still wowing everyone. They actually taste even better on day two when all the flavors have had time to mix together.
Baker's Secrets
Warm your knife for smooth, clean slices
Whip the cream cheese by itself first for silky frosting
Use all ingredients at the same temp
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Use extra parchment paper hanging over the edges
I started making these sugar cookie bars just because they were easier, but now they've turned into my favorite party dessert. Just remember, good ingredients and the right methods will give you amazing treats that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What butter works best?
- European-style gives richer flavor, but unsalted butter is fine.
- → How do I store it?
- Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days due to the frosting.
- → Can these be frozen?
- Yes, just freeze without frosting for up to 3 months.
- → Frosting too stiff?
- Mix in a little milk to get it just right.
- → Why use pan lining?
- Makes getting them out and slicing way easier.