Sugar Cookie Bars

Sweet and buttery, these Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect to share!

For those times when you don't want to make cookies but want something sweet, bars like these are perfect. They're quick and crazy easy to make. They freeze well too.

These cookie bars are similar to those thick cookies you get at the grocery store. Not too sweet but perfectly sweet with the frosting!

I think the best part of these bars is they have a layer of frosting that is the same thickness of the cookie. If you'd like less frosting though, go ahead and halve the recipe. 

Sugar Cookie Bars
Adapted from Love Bakes Good Cakes

• 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg plus 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Frosting

• 1 (1 lb) package powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 3 to 4 tablespoons milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• food coloring (optional)
• sprinkles (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a 9x13 sheet pan with foil/parchment paper and grease with oil or cooking spray.

In a medium sized bowl, whisk flour, salt, and baking powder until combined. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until very light and fluffy. Add egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. 

Gradually, mix flour mixture into butter mixture until combined. The mixture may seem crumbly. 

Press the dough into a even layer in the pan. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until lightly browned. After browned, remove from oven and allow to cool completely before frosting.

In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream softened butter, vanilla extract, and about 3 tablespoons of milk. Whip to combine. Slowly, add powdered sugar and whip until fluffy, adding the extra tablespoon of milk if needed. After frosting is whipped and fluffy, add food coloring as desired. 

Frost the completely cooled bars and sprinkle with sprinkles if desired. Cut into squares and enjoy!