Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Sink your teeth into these homemade patriotic sugar cookie bars! A soft sugar cookie bar studded with red and blue sprinkles, topped with thick and velvety vanilla frosting. This delightful dessert is perfect for the 4th of July and other festive occasions, making it a sliceable treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These cookie bars come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Deliciously Sweet: With a soft texture and sweet vanilla flavor, these bars are irresistible.
• Festive Appearance: The vibrant red and blue sprinkles make them a visually stunning addition to any celebration.
• Sliceable Format: Unlike traditional cookies, cookie bars are easy to cut and serve, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Versatile Topping Options: Feel free to customize the frosting or add different sprinkles based on your theme or occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious patriotic sugar cookie bars, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with paddle attachment
• 9×13 baking dish
• Parchment paper or foil
• Electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with paddle attachment: This tool makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, leading to a fluffy batter.
• 9×13 baking dish: The ideal size for baking these cookie bars evenly while allowing for easy slicing.
• Electric hand mixer: Perfect for whipping the frosting quickly to achieve that light and fluffy texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 4 & 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 1 & 2/3 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup patriotic sprinkles
– For the frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 2 & 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– pinch of sea salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 & 1/2 tablespoons whole milk
– Patriotic sprinkles for garnish

How to Make Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper or foil, then spray it with cooking spray. Set this aside. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sea salt.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about two minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in your flour mixture, stirring until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Gently fold in the patriotic sprinkles until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Bake the Cookie Bars

Press the cookie dough evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25–28 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean. Once baked, place on a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While the cookie bars cool, prepare your frosting by placing softened butter into a large bowl. Using an electric hand mixer, whip until smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar until fully mixed. Add sea salt, vanilla extract, and whole milk; mix until combined. Then whip on medium-high speed for about three minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once cooled, take your cookie bar from the baking dish and frost the top generously with your prepared frosting. If desired, sprinkle additional patriotic sprinkles on top for extra flair. Cut into squares or rectangles to serve!

Enjoy these delightful patriotic sugar cookie bars at your next gathering!

How to Serve Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Serving your Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars can elevate any gathering, especially during festive occasions like the 4th of July. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your dessert stand out!

Individual Portions

• Use cupcake liners: Place each cookie bar in a colorful cupcake liner for easy serving and a fun presentation.
• Cut into fun shapes: Use cookie cutters to create star or heart shapes for a playful twist on the traditional bars.

Add Toppings

• Fresh berries: Serve with strawberries and blueberries on top for an extra burst of flavor and color.
• Ice cream scoop: Top each bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert combo.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mix and match: Combine your sugar cookie bars with other desserts like brownies, fruit tarts, and mini cupcakes for variety on your dessert table.
• Garnish with mint: Add fresh mint leaves around the platter for a pop of color and freshness.

Pair with Beverages

• Lemonade stand: Offer refreshing lemonade or berry-infused drinks alongside your cookie bars to complement their sweetness.
• Coffee station: Set up a coffee or tea bar for guests who enjoy warm beverages with their cookies.

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How to Perfect Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

To ensure your Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars are always a hit, consider these helpful tips!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the bars soft and tender.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on them while baking; ovens vary, so check for doneness early to avoid overbaking.
• Let cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before frosting helps the frosting set nicely without melting.

Best Side Dishes for Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options that complement the sweetness perfectly.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cookie bars.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky flavor pairs well with sweet treats, making it a great savory option.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer lightness alongside dessert.
4. Mini Hot Dogs: These classic finger foods bring a savory element that balances out the sweetness of cookie bars.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a picnic favorite that adds substance to any meal alongside desserts.
6. Veggie Platter: Crisp vegetables with dip provide crunch and freshness between bites of sweets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars can be a joy, but there are common mistakes that can affect your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Cooling Step: Failing to cool the bars completely before frosting can cause the frosting to melt. Always let them cool on a wire rack.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookie bars. Mix just until combined after adding the flour.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring Parchment Paper: Not lining your baking dish can cause sticking. Always line with parchment paper or foil for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Cut into bars before freezing for easy thawing.

Reheating Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat and cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars:

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil, but this may alter flavor slightly.

How do I customize my Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars?

Add different colored sprinkles or use flavored extracts like almond or lemon to enhance the taste.

Can I freeze leftovers of Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars?

Absolutely! They freeze well and maintain their flavor when stored properly.

What makes these bars festive?

The red and blue sprinkles give them a festive touch, perfect for holidays like the 4th of July!

Final Thoughts

These Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars are not only delicious but also versatile, making them suitable for various celebrations. You can easily customize them with different sprinkles or flavors. Give this recipe a try, and impress your guests with this delightful treat!