Easy & Festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting

The holiday season is officially here, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of delightful, stress-free treats? These **Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars** are a game-changer for anyone who loves the classic taste of sugar cookies but wants to skip the tedious rolling and cutting. Imagine a perfectly **soft and chewy sugar cookie base**, generously slathered with a **thick layer of velvety, buttery sweet cream cheese frosting**, all finished with a cascade of **vibrant festive sprinkles**. It’s the quintessential holiday dessert, made incredibly simple.

These delightful **sugar cookie bars** are an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for any festive occasion. Whether you’re hosting a grand **holiday party**, contributing to a **Christmas cookie exchange**, or simply enjoying a cozy evening by the fire with **Christmas music** playing, these bars are guaranteed to bring smiles. Their ease of preparation and charming appearance make them an ideal addition to any **cookie platter** or dessert spread, offering all the joy of traditional sugar cookies without the extra fuss.

If you’re expanding your repertoire of **Christmas treats** this season, you’ll love some of my other favorite holiday recipes:

• Peppermint Brownies
• Oreo Gingerbread Cake
• White Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Cake

Why You’ll Love Making These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

These **Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars** aren’t just delicious; they’re designed for convenience, making your holiday baking a joyous experience rather than a chore. Here’s why this recipe should be at the top of your baking list:

• **Effortless & Easy Recipe:** Say goodbye to complex baking. This recipe for **easy Christmas sugar cookie bars** simplifies the process significantly. You’ll only need one **mixing bowl** for the dough, which means minimal cleanup – a true holiday miracle! Forget about searching for **cookie cutters** or spending **extra time** meticulously shaping individual cookies. Simply press the dough evenly into your pan, and you’re well on your way to delicious **sugar cookie bars** with minimal effort. This straightforward approach allows you to focus on the fun of decorating and sharing.
• **Irresistibly Soft and Chewy Base:** Every bite offers a delightful texture that melts in your mouth while providing that satisfying chewiness we all crave. If you’re a devoted fan of **soft sugar cookies**, this recipe is crafted specifically for you. The base is rich, tender, and perfectly balanced, creating the ideal foundation for the decadent frosting.
• **No Chilling Required:** One of the biggest time-savers in this recipe is that there’s no need to chill the dough. You can prepare and bake these bars right away, making them the perfect treat for those moments when you’re in a **bit of a time crunch** but still want to deliver homemade goodness. This instant gratification is especially appreciated during the busy holiday season.
• **Rich Buttery Flavor:** These **buttery sugar cookie bars** are the epitome of indulgent flavor. The combination of **softened unsalted butter**, premium **vanilla extract**, and a perfect balance of sweetness creates a taste reminiscent of the **best sugar cookie bar recipe** you’ve ever had. Each bite is a celebration of classic, comforting flavors that define the holiday season.
• **Incredibly Festive and Fun:** Unleash your creativity! Top these **adorably festive Christmas cookie bars** with an assortment of **holiday sprinkles**, **green sprinkles**, shimmering edible glitter, or even crushed **candy canes** to make them truly stand out on any **cookie tray**. For an extra personal touch, incorporate **food coloring** into the frosting to match your specific holiday color scheme, making these bars as visually appealing as they are delicious.
• **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Beyond holiday parties, these bars are fantastic for bake sales, potlucks, gifts for neighbors, or simply a sweet treat for your family. Their bar form makes them easy to transport and share, ensuring everyone gets a piece of the holiday magic.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Sugar Cookie Bars

Before you dive into the joyful process of baking, let’s take a closer look at the **key ingredients** that bring these sensational **Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars** to life. For the full, detailed list of measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card provided below.

• **Unsalted Butter:** This is the cornerstone of any great cookie. I exclusively use **unsalted butter** in my **sugar cookie bars recipe** to meticulously control the overall salt content, ensuring a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal creaming.
• **Brown Sugar (Light):** While many sugar cookies use only granulated sugar, the addition of **light brown sugar** here contributes to the wonderfully soft and chewy texture of the bars, alongside a subtle caramel note that deepens the flavor.
• **Eggs:** Essential for structure and moisture. For the **best results** and a beautifully uniform dough, always allow your eggs to reach room temperature before you begin mixing. If you find yourself in a hurry, a quick hack is to place the entire egg (still in its shell) in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes.
• **All-Purpose Flour:** The primary dry ingredient that gives the bars their structure. I personally prefer using unbleached all-purpose flour for its consistent quality. My go-to brand is Bob’s Red Mill, but any good quality unbleached flour will work wonderfully.
• **Vanilla Extract:** You simply **can’t make classic sugar cookies** without a generous splash of pure **vanilla extract**. It is crucial for enhancing the sweetness and developing that iconic, comforting flavor in your bars. Don’t skimp on quality here!
• **Almond Extract:** A secret ingredient that elevates the flavor profile of these sugar cookie bars beyond the ordinary. Just a touch of **almond extract** complements the vanilla beautifully, giving the bars a professional, bakery-quality taste.
• **Baking Powder & Cornstarch:** Baking powder provides the perfect lift and softness, while a small amount of cornstarch helps tenderize the dough, contributing to that desirable soft and chewy texture.
• **Cream Cheese (Full-Fat):** For the most luscious and spreadable frosting, **full-fat cream cheese** is a must. Its tangy notes perfectly cut through the sweetness of the frosting, creating a harmonious balance. My personal favorite for consistent creaminess is Philadelphia cream cheese. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for a lump-free frosting.
• **Powdered Sugar:** The base for our smooth and sweet cream cheese frosting. Sifting is highly recommended to prevent lumps and achieve that silky texture.
• **Heavy Whipping Cream:** Used in the frosting to achieve the perfect consistency and an extra rich, fluffy texture.
• **Christmas Sprinkles:** These **holiday sprinkles** are not just for decoration; they are **essential** for making your bars look undeniably festive and fun! I adore using classic **red, green**, and **white sprinkles**, but feel free to explore other charming **holiday sprinkles** like tiny **Christmas trees**, miniature **candy canes**, or even a delicate drizzle of **royal icing** for a more polished and intricate design.

Essential Equipment for Baking Success

To ensure a smooth baking process and perfectly finished bars, gather these key pieces of equipment before you start:

• **Stand Mixer:** My go-to is a KitchenAid stand mixer – it makes creaming butter and mixing dough a breeze. You can find the exact model I use here.
• **8×8 or 9×9 Inch Baking Pan:** An 8×8 baking pan is ideal for thicker bars. A 9×9 can also be used, resulting in slightly thinner bars. If using a 9×13, you’ll need to double the recipe.
• **Parchment Paper:** Crucial for easy removal and cleanup. Don’t skip it!
• **Metal Binder Clips:** A clever trick to keep the parchment paper securely in place while you press the dough.
• **Mixing Bowls:** At least two – one for dry ingredients and the stand mixer bowl.
• **Rubber Spatula:** Indispensable for scraping down the sides of the bowl and gently folding ingredients.
• **Bowl Scraper:** Excellent for flattening the top of the dough in the pan and ensuring an even layer.
• **Offset Spatula:** Perfect for spreading frosting smoothly and evenly.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly baked, tender **Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars** that will be the star of your holiday dessert table. Remember, having your ingredients at room temperature is key!

• **Step 1: Prepare Your Pan (and Oven!).** First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the optimal temperature when your dough is ready. Next, take an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan and line it completely with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. Use metal binder clips to secure the parchment paper to the sides of the pan; this prevents it from shifting as you press in the dough. Set this prepared pan aside.
• **Step 2: Sift Your Dry Ingredients.** In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and kosher salt. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are well combined and lump-free. Sifting prevents dense spots in your cookies. Set this mixture aside for later.
• **Step 3: Cream Your Butter and Sugar.** In the bowl of your stand mixer, fitted with the paddle attachment, add the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Cream these together on medium-high speed until the mixture becomes wonderfully light, fluffy, and noticeably pale. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air, making your cookies tender.
• **Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Almond Extract.** Reduce the mixer speed to medium. Add the room temperature large egg to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing until it is fully incorporated. Stop the mixer, and with a rubber spatula, scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Now, add the almond extract and mix on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
• **Step 5: Gently Add the Flour Mixture.** With the mixer on its lowest speed, gradually add the dry ingredients (from Step 2) to the wet butter and sugar mixture. Mix only until the flour streaks have just disappeared and the dough comes together. **Do not overmix**, as this can lead to tough bars. The dough should be soft but cohesive.
• **Step 6: Press Dough into Prepared Pan.** Transfer the freshly made cookie dough to your prepared baking pan. Using your clean hands or a rubber spatula, gently but firmly press the cookie dough into an even layer, making sure it reaches all the way into the corners of the pan. I find that using my hands, followed by a bowl scraper, helps to create a perfectly smooth and flat top surface for even baking.
• **Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection.** Place the pan into your preheated oven. Bake the sugar cookie dough for approximately 20-25 minutes. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on it – mine typically takes the full 25 minutes (as my oven runs a bit hot). The bars are ready when the edges are lightly golden brown, but the center still appears slightly soft or “underbaked.” Don’t worry, the residual heat in the pan will continue to cook the dough as it cools, resulting in that perfect soft and chewy texture.
• **Step 8: Cool Completely for Best Results.** Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. For even faster cooling and to prepare for frosting, you can transfer the pan to the fridge for about 20 minutes. While your cookie bars are cooling, it’s the perfect time to prepare your luscious cream cheese frosting!

Crafting the Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting

This light, tangy, and sweet cream cheese frosting is the perfect complement to the buttery sugar cookie base. Here’s how to whip it up:

• **Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter.** In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened full-fat cream cheese on medium speed until it is wonderfully smooth and creamy, with no lumps visible. Stop the mixer and use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl thoroughly. Add the softened unsalted butter to the bowl and cream together with the cream cheese on medium-high speed for 1 minute until well combined and fluffy.
• **Step 2: Add Remaining Frosting Ingredients.** Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and the heavy whipping cream. Mix on low speed until all ingredients are just incorporated and there are no dry spots. Once combined, increase the speed to medium-high and beat for another 2 minutes. This aeration will make your frosting incredibly light and fluffy.
• **Pro-Tip for Frosting Consistency:** The perfect frosting consistency can be a matter of personal preference. If your frosting seems a little too thin for your liking, gradually add a tablespoon or two more of sifted powdered sugar until it reaches your desired thickness. Conversely, if it appears too thick or stiff, add a dash more heavy cream, a teaspoon at a time, until it’s perfectly spreadable.
• **Step 3: Frost the Cooled Bars.** Ensure your cookie bars are completely cooled before applying the frosting. If they’re even slightly warm, the frosting will melt and slide off. Once fully cooled, use an offset spatula to spread the creamy frosting evenly over the entire top surface of the cookie bars, from edge to edge.
• **Step 4: Decorate, Chill, and Cut.** This is where the festive fun begins! Generously top the frosted bars with your chosen **Christmas sprinkles**. To achieve those coveted perfect, sharp edges when cutting, it’s highly recommended to chill the frosted bars in the refrigerator for at least 30-60 minutes. Once firm, use a sharp knife, cleaning it after each cut, to slice the bars into 16 neat squares. Serve them chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a softer, more decadent bite.

Expert Baking Tips for Flawless Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Achieving bakery-quality **Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars** is easier than you think with these professional tips. Pay attention to these details, and your bars will be perfect every time:

• **Choose the Right Pan:** For the best results, always use a **light-colored metal pan**. Darker pans tend to absorb more heat, which can cause the edges of your bars to over-bake or even burn before the center is cooked through. A metal pan ensures even heat distribution and a beautifully golden-brown finish.
• **Thoroughly Preheat Your Oven:** This is a non-negotiable step for consistent baking. Make it a habit to preheat your oven for at least 20-30 minutes before placing your cookie bars inside. This allows your oven to reach and stabilize at the exact temperature required, preventing underbaked centers or unevenly cooked edges.
• **Measure Flour Accurately:** Baking is a science, and precise measurements are key. Avoid scooping flour directly from the bag with your measuring cup, as this compacts it and results in too much flour. Instead, always use the “spoon and level” method: spoon the flour into your measuring cup until it’s overflowing, then use the back of a knife or a straight edge to level it off.
• **Ensure Room Temperature Ingredients:** For both the cookie dough and the cream cheese frosting, using softened butter, cream cheese, and eggs at room temperature is crucial. This allows them to cream together smoothly, incorporating air more effectively and preventing a lumpy texture in your frosting.
• **Do Not Overmix the Dough:** Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until just combined – meaning no visible streaks of flour. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which will result in tough, dense bars instead of the desired soft and chewy texture.
• **Cool Completely Before Frosting:** Patience is a virtue, especially in baking! Your cookie bars must be completely cool before you even think about adding the frosting. Warm bars will melt the frosting, turning your beautiful creation into a messy puddle.
• **Use Quality Extracts:** Both vanilla and almond extracts play a significant role in the flavor profile. Opt for good quality, pure extracts for the most authentic and delicious taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Here are answers to some common questions you might have while preparing your **Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars**:

What if I don’t have an 8×8-inch baking pan? You can certainly use a 9×9-inch baking pan instead. Keep in mind that the bars will be slightly thinner, so you might need to reduce the baking time by a few minutes. Always watch for those golden edges. If you wish to use a larger 9×13-inch pan, it is essential to double the entire recipe for both the cookie base and the frosting to ensure proper thickness and coverage.

How do you get those perfectly sharp cuts for neat squares? Achieving clean, crisp edges is all about temperature and tools. First, ensure your frosted dessert is thoroughly chilled – ideally in the refrigerator for at least 30-60 minutes, or even longer until firm. Then, use a very sharp knife. For the cleanest cuts, wipe the knife clean with a damp cloth or paper towel after every single slice. This prevents the frosting from sticking and dragging, ensuring each square looks pristine.

Can I turn these bar cookies into traditional sugar cookies? Yes, you absolutely can! If you prefer individual cookies, you will need to chill the dough. Because this recipe uses warm butter initially, the dough will be too soft to roll immediately. Refrigerate the dough for at least 12 hours (or overnight) to allow it to firm up. Once chilled, you can use a medium to large cookie scoop to form dough balls. For an added touch, you can then roll these dough balls in a cinnamon-sugar mixture or granulated sugar before baking. Baking times will vary for individual cookies, so watch them closely.

Can I make these bars ahead of time? Absolutely! These bars are fantastic for making ahead. You can bake the cookie base a day or two in advance, store it covered at room temperature, and then frost it closer to when you plan to serve. The frosted bars can be stored in an airtight container for several days, and some even find the flavors deepen overnight!

What are some variations or substitutions for this recipe? You can easily customize these bars!

• **Extracts:** If you’re not a fan of almond extract, you can omit it or use an extra 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract instead. Other fun options include peppermint extract (for a minty twist!) or even lemon extract for a brighter flavor.
• **Sprinkles & Toppings:** Beyond traditional Christmas sprinkles, consider using crushed peppermints, mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate.
• **Food Coloring:** For a truly vibrant holiday treat, add a few drops of gel food coloring to your cream cheese frosting. Red or green frosting would be stunning!

Storing and Freezing Your Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Proper storage ensures your **Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars** stay fresh and delicious, allowing you to enjoy them for longer or prepare them well in advance.

• **Storing at Room Temperature:** Once completely cooled and frosted, store these delightful bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. While they are wonderful fresh, many people find they taste even better after a day or two, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
• **Refrigeration for Extended Freshness:** For longer storage, or if your kitchen is particularly warm, place the airtight container with the bars in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to a week, and some truly enjoy their firm, chilled texture!
• **Freezing for Future Enjoyment:** If you have any leftovers (though this is highly unlikely!), these **Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars** freeze exceptionally well. For best results, allow the frosted bars to set completely in the refrigerator. Then, cut them into individual squares. Arrange the squares in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (this prevents them from sticking together). Once firm, transfer the frozen bars to an airtight freezer-safe container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• **Thawing Instructions:** To enjoy frozen bars, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for an hour or two, or overnight in the refrigerator, before serving.

I hope you absolutely adore these **Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars** as much as I do! If you loved this recipe, please don’t forget to leave a 5-star rating and a comment below. I’d genuinely love to hear your feedback, see your creations, or answer any questions you might have! For more baking inspiration, fun tips, and delicious recipes, be sure to follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. I share so many exciting things across all platforms!

Recipe

Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars

Molly Murphy

Classic sugar cookie flavor transformed into an easy-to-make bar. No shaping required!

5 from 2 votes

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Course Dessert

Cuisine American, Holiday

Ingredients

  

Sugar Cookie Bars

• 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg room temperature
• ½ teaspoon almond extract

Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting

• 7 tablespoon unsalted butter room temperature
• 3 tablespoon cream cheese room temperature, full-fat
• 2 cups powdered sugar sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream or more, as needed
• ½ cup Christmas sprinkles for topping

Instructions

 

For the Sugar Cookie Dough

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on two sides. Secure the parchment paper with metal binder clips. Set aside.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and kosher salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the room temperature large egg and mix on medium speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Add the almond extract and mix on low speed just until combined.
• On the lowest speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.
• Transfer the cookie dough to the prepared pan. Use your hands or a spatula (and a bowl scraper for a smoother top) to press the dough into an even layer, ensuring it reaches all the corners of the pan.
• Bake the sugar cookie dough for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The center might look slightly underbaked, but the dough will continue to set as it cools in the pan. (Note: My oven bakes a bit hot, so 25 minutes was perfect for me.)
• Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. For faster cooling, you can place them in the fridge for about 20 minutes. While the bars cool, proceed to make the cream cheese frosting.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Add the softened unsalted butter and cream on medium-high speed for 1 minute until well combined.
• Reduce the speed to low. Add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and heavy whipping cream. Mix on low until incorporated, then increase the speed to medium-high and beat for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
• **HINT:** Adjust the consistency of your frosting as needed. If it’s too thin, gradually add more sifted powdered sugar (1-2 tablespoons at a time). If it’s too thick, add a dash more heavy cream (1 teaspoon at a time) until you reach your desired spreadable consistency.
• Once the cookie bars are completely cool, use an offset spatula to evenly spread the prepared cream cheese frosting over the entire top surface of the bars.
• Generously top the frosted bars with your favorite Christmas sprinkles.
• For perfectly sharp and clean edges, chill the frosted cookie bars in the refrigerator for at least 30-60 minutes before cutting them into 16 squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature, as preferred.

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