Name: Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Unsalted butter (room temperature); 1 cup Granulated sugar; 2 large Large eggs; 1 teaspoon Baking powder; 2 1/4 cups All-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 8 Tablespoons Unsalted butter (room temperature); 3 cups Powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 3 Tablespoons Milk; 0 none Sprinkles, m&m's and white chocolate chips (for topping)

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Every time I think about summer gatherings, the memories that flood my mind are warm, sunny afternoons filled with laughter, colorful decorations, and sweet treats. One of my all-time favorites is the Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars. These delightful bars are not just a treat; they serve as a canvas for creativity and joy. Imagine a gathering where every dessert reflects the spirit of celebration, and these cookie bars take center stage. The vibrant colors of sprinkles and toppings evoke a sense of pride and festivity, perfect for any occasion. I remember the first time I baked these bars; the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through the house, instantly lifting everyone’s spirits. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a Fourth of July barbecue, a birthday bash, or just wanting to please your family with something sweet, these bars are a hit every time.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
cut and serve turner, Hand mixer

Why This Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars Is a Winner

Versatile for Any Occasion

What I love most about the Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars is their versatility. They’re perfect for summer holidays, birthday parties, or even just a cozy family evening. You can easily modify the toppings to suit any celebration, making them a year-round favorite.

Easy to Make

Even if you’re new to baking, these bars are incredibly user-friendly. With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can whip them up without any hassle. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about pressing the dough into the pan and watching them bake to golden perfection.

Delightful Texture

These cookie bars strike a perfect balance between soft and chewy. The light, fluffy texture melts in your mouth, while the sweet frosting adds a creamy finish that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a delightful experience with each bite!

Fun to Decorate

Decorating the Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars is half the fun! You can transform them into a festive masterpiece with colorful sprinkles and toppings, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen, allowing their creativity to shine.

A Sweet Way to Celebrate

Finally, these bars are a delicious way to celebrate any occasion. Baking them together as a family can become a cherished tradition, creating lasting memories while also satisfying your sweet tooth. There’s nothing quite like enjoying homemade treats with loved ones.

Ingredients to Make Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

The ingredients for the Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars are simple yet effective. Each element plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor balance. From the rich and creamy butter to the sweet and fluffy powdered sugar, these ingredients come together to make something truly special.

Unsalted butter: 3/4 cup (1 ½ sticks), room temperature. This is the base of our cookie bars, giving them a rich flavor and a soft texture.
Granulated sugar: 1 cup. This adds sweetness and helps the cookies brown beautifully.
Large eggs: 2. Eggs provide moisture and structure, helping the bars stay soft.
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon. This helps the bars rise, creating a light and airy texture.
All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups. The foundation of the cookie dough, giving it body and stability.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. A crucial ingredient that enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Powdered sugar: 3 cups for frosting. This creates a soft and fluffy frosting that perfectly complements the cookies.
Milk: 3 tablespoons. Used to achieve the right consistency for the frosting.
Sprinkles, m&m’s, and white chocolate chips: for topping. These add a festive touch and make the bars visually appealing.

How to Prepare Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Making the Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars is a fun and fulfilling experience. It’s all about following the steps and enjoying the process. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This step is crucial as it ensures the bars bake evenly. As your oven heats, take out a 9×13 inch baking pan and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and has a slightly fluffy texture.
Add the eggs and a teaspoon of vanilla to the butter mixture. Beat well until everything is thoroughly combined. The eggs should help the mixture become smoother.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the dough light.
Now, gently press the dough into an even layer in the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use your hands or a spatula for this, making sure it’s evenly spread out without any gaps.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 13 minutes. Keep a close eye on the bars; they should be just set in the center and not browned around the edges. Remove them from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan.
While the bars cool, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, cream together the remaining butter and 2 cups of powdered sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
Add the remaining powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Mix until you reach a soft frosting consistency. You can adjust the milk quantity to get the texture you prefer.
Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Don’t be shy with this step; it’s the best part!
Finally, sprinkle with your choice of toppings, such as sprinkles, m&m’s, or white chocolate chips. Slice into squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooling time is essential: Allow your cookie bars to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
Don’t over-bake: The key to these bars is to keep them soft. Pull them out of the oven while they’re still slightly soft in the center.
Frosting consistency: Adjust the milk in your frosting to achieve your desired consistency. It should be spreadable but not too runny.
Customize your toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! Use different colored sprinkles for various occasions.

Substitutions and Tips

As you embark on making the Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars, here are some tips to enhance your experience and results. Each step is crucial to achieving the perfect cookie bars!

Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last up to two days at room temperature or five in the fridge.
Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to three months. Freeze them unfrosted, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before icing.
Variations: Experiment with different toppings. You can use crushed candies or seasonal sprinkles for a festive look.
Make ahead: You can bake the bars and prepare the frosting a day in advance. Just keep them stored separately until you’re ready to frost and serve.
Ingredient quality matters: Using high-quality butter and vanilla can elevate the flavor of your cookie bars significantly.

How to Serve Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

When it comes to serving the Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars, there are plenty of creative ways to present them that will wow your guests.

Garnish creatively: Consider adding fresh berries or whipped cream for a delightful touch that enhances both flavor and presentation.
Perfect for gatherings: These bars are ideal for potlucks, BBQs, or any festive gathering. They’re easy to grab and go!
Pair with drinks: Serve alongside lemonade, iced tea, or milk for a fun and nostalgic combination.
Use colorful plates: Present your cookie bars on vibrant platters or plates that match the occasion to add a cheerful touch.
Seasonal themes: Change the toppings according to the season or holiday to keep them fresh and exciting.

FAQ

To make Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the labels for certified gluten-free options. Additionally, you can add xanthan gum if your gluten-free blend doesn’t include it. This will help bind the ingredients together and give the bars the right texture. Follow the same mixing and baking instructions as you would with regular flour. Enjoy your delicious gluten-free treat!

Yes, you can use margarine in place of butter in the Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars. However, make sure to choose a high-quality margarine that has a similar fat content to butter. This will help maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor that butter provides. Keep in mind that using margarine may slightly alter the taste, but your bars will still turn out delicious!

The beauty of Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars is that you can customize the toppings to fit any occasion! Use red, white, and blue sprinkles for patriotic holidays, or opt for chocolate chips and crushed candies for a fun twist. Fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries can add a refreshing touch, while nuts can provide an extra crunch. Feel free to get creative with your toppings and make these bars truly your own!

To keep your Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, where they will last for up to five days. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers if you stack them to prevent sticking. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing the unfrosted bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to maintain freshness for up to three months.

Conclusion

The Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars are not just a dessert; they embody the spirit of celebration and togetherness. With their soft, chewy texture and vibrant colors, these bars will surely impress everyone at your next gathering. So why not gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try? You’ll create sweet memories that will last a lifetime!