With the holiday season just around the corner, there’s nothing more inviting than the smell of fresh-baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars that not only sing joy but also cater to gluten-free guests! These soft cookie bars combine the traditional flavors of sugar cookies with the richness of a thick layer of buttercream frosting, creating a dessert that everyone can enjoy. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, but they also make for a spectacular crowd-pleaser, whether at parties or cozy family gatherings. So, are you ready to transform your baking game and impress your loved ones with these delightful bars?
Why are Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars a Must-Try?
Irresistibly Soft: These Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars boast a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making them a standout dessert at any gathering.
Gluten-Friendly Delight: Featuring a gluten-free recipe, these bars ensure everyone can indulge without worry, making them perfect for festive occasions or casual get-togethers.
Decadently Frosted: The thick layer of buttercream frosting elevates the flavor profile, offering a rich sweetness that complements the vanilla base beautifully.
Quick and Simple: With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up these treats in no time—perfect for busy bakers!
Customizable Fun: Feel free to experiment with different extracts or add colorful sprinkles, making these bars a versatile option that can fit any celebration.
Add this recipe to your Christmas Cookie Box or enjoy them alongside a slice of Caramel Apple Cake for a festive feast!
Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create your delicious Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars!
For the Cookie Base
- Gluten-Free Flour Blend – This is the foundation for your bars; swap it with all-purpose flour if gluten isn’t an issue.
- Baking Powder – A crucial leavening agent that gives the bars that perfect rise.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness—don’t skip this!
- Unsalted Butter – Richness and moisture come from this; room temperature butter will mix more evenly.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bars and contributes to their chewy texture.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deeper flavor; can be substituted with more granulated sugar if needed.
- Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer – This binds everything together; feel free to use one egg if you prefer.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses a delightful flavor; high-quality extract makes all the difference.
For the Buttercream Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – The star ingredient for your frosting, providing smoothness and sweetness.
- Whole Milk – Adjusts the frosting consistency; choose dairy or non-dairy milk based on your need.
- Food Coloring (optional) – Use this for a pop of color; gel coloring works best for that vibrant touch.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grab a square baking pan, preferably 9×9 inches, and line it with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove your delicious Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars once baked. Set the pan aside and let the anticipation build!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of gluten-free flour blend, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed. This step is crucial, as it helps achieve a soft and chewy texture in your cookie bar base. Set the bowl aside for the next step.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together ½ cup unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ¾ cup light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. Once creamed, add in 2 tablespoons of Bob’s Red Mill egg replacer and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix for an additional minute until these ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Take the dry ingredient mixture and gradually add it to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined—this helps ensure that your Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars remain soft and tender. Be careful not to over-mix; the dough should be slightly sticky but well-blended.
Step 5: Bake the Cookie Base
Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down gently with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 16-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Step 6: Prepare Buttercream Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of room-temperature unsalted butter with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Slowly pour in 2-4 tablespoons of whole milk until the frosting reaches your desired consistency—light and fluffy, perfect for spreading.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
Once your cookie base is completely cool, spread the buttercream frosting generously over the top using a spatula. For an optional touch, you can add food coloring to the frosting before spreading! Slice the cooled bars into squares or rectangles, and get ready to serve your delightful Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars.
What to Serve with Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars
Indulge in a delightful array of sides and treats that perfectly complement the sweet, creamy goodness of these delicious cookie bars.
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Freshly Brewed Coffee: The robust flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of the bars, making them a delightful pairing for afternoon treats.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop a generous serving of vanilla ice cream beside your cookie bar for a classic sundae experience, creating a lovely textural contrast.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing and juicy element to your dessert table, lightening the richness of the frosting.
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Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty sparkle of lemonade provides a bright and invigorating sip that cuts through the sweetness, making it an ideal drink companion.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate over each bar right before serving for an added layer of decadence that chocolate lovers will adore!
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Nutty Granola Parfait: Layer crunchy granola with yogurt and diced fruits to create a fun treat that balances the soft texture of the cookie bars nicely.
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Creamy Cheesecake Dip: Serve with graham crackers for dipping, offering a rich and tangy counterpart to the sweet cookie dessert—a crowd favorite!
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Chai Tea: The spices in chai enhance the vanilla flavor of the bars, adding warmth and comfort that will cozy up any dessert moment.
Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delicious bars your own with some fun twists!
- Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour for gluten-free flour to make it nut-friendly while still enjoying a chewy texture.
- Colorful Sprinkles: Fold fun sprinkles into the dough or mix into the frosting for a festive look that catches the eye!
- Flavored Extracts: Use almond or lemon extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor to suit your taste preferences.
- Cocoa Powder: For a chocolatey twist, add cocoa powder to the flour mixture—a delightful combination!
- Fruit Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing burst of citrus flavor.
- Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the butter in the frosting for vegan cream cheese to create a tangy, silky topping that is totally dairy-free.
- Spiced Up: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm flavor, ideal for cozy gatherings.
- Crushed Cookies: Add crushed gluten-free cookies into the frosting for an extra crunchy texture—think of it as a delightful surprise with each bite!
These variations can help you mix things up, whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply craving something sweet. Want to save this recipe for later? Be sure to check out my dreamy Black Forest Cookies or indulge in some delightful Snowball Cookies for a sweet treat you won’t forget!
Make Ahead Options
These Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie base up to 24 hours in advance by baking it and allowing it to cool completely, then covering it tightly in plastic wrap. For optimal freshness, frost the bars just before serving; this way, you’ll maintain the creamy texture of the buttercream. If you’d like, you can also make the frosting up to 3 days ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy, simply re-whip the frosting for a fluffy finish and spread it over the cooled bars. This makes your dessert prep seamless and stress-free for gatherings!
Expert Tips for Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter, are at room temperature for smooth mixing and the best texture.
• Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix the dough just until combined to keep your Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars soft and chewy; over-mixing can lead to toughness.
• Cooling Time Matters: Allow the cookie base to cool completely before frosting; this prevents melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Frosting Consistency: Adjust milk in the buttercream gradually to achieve the right spreadable consistency; adding too much can make it runny.
• Storing for Freshness: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature but consume within a couple of days for optimal freshness.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap the vanilla extract for almond or citrus for a fun twist on these delicious bars!
How to Store and Freeze Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, you can freeze the Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If desired, gently warm in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly-baked taste. Enjoy your delightful bars!
Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select gluten-free flour blends?
Absolutely! When choosing a gluten-free flour blend, look for one that contains a mix of different flours, such as rice flour, almond flour, or tapioca flour. This combination provides structure and texture similar to all-purpose flour. Check the package for a label that says “1:1” baking for easy substitutions in recipes like this Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars.
How should I store my Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars to keep them fresh?
For optimal freshness, store your Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just ensure they’re well-covered to prevent them from drying out, so you can enjoy that chewy goodness!
Can I freeze these bars for later enjoyment? How do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars, first allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough seems too sticky, don’t worry! This can happen sometimes when working with gluten-free flour blends. To fix it, try adding a tablespoon of gluten-free flour gradually until the dough reaches a workable consistency. Remember, the dough should be soft but manageable. Just ensure not to overwork it – softness is key to delicious Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you’re serving these bars to someone with allergies, always double-check the ingredients in your gluten-free flour blend and any other substitutes you might use, such as chocolate or frosting ingredients. For a completely dairy-free version, simply swap the butter with a non-dairy alternative and use non-dairy milk in the frosting, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful treats.
Can I use a different egg substitute instead of Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use a different egg substitute, you can swap in ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1 mashed banana for each egg needed. Just remember that these alternatives can add a touch of sweetness and moisture, so they’re ideal for sweet recipes like our Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars!
Irresistibly Soft Frosted Sugar Cookie Cake Bars Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a square baking pan lined with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together.
- In a larger bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in the egg replacer and vanilla extract.
- Gradually combine the dry mixture with the butter mixture until just blended.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared baking pan and bake for 16-18 minutes until edges are golden.
- For frosting, beat unsalted butter until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar and milk until fluffy.
- Spread buttercream frosting over the cooled cookie base, slice, and serve.
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