Soft Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars
These Soft Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful and easy treat that combines sweetness and simplicity, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars
- 1 cup butter, unsalted, room temperature For richness and moisture
- 1 cup sugar Provides sweetness and structure
- 1 large egg, room temperature Binds ingredients and adds moisture
- 1 large egg yolk, room temperature Adds richness and soft texture
- 1.5 tsp vanilla extract Enhances flavor
- 1 tsp almond extract Adds subtle nutty flavor
- 3 cups flour Provides structure
- 1 tsp baking powder Helps with leavening
- 1/4 tsp baking soda Aids in rising
- 1/2 tsp salt Balances sweetness
For the Frosting
- 3/4 cup butter, unsalted, room temperature Adds creaminess
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances flavor
- 3 tsp fresh lemon juice Optional, adds brightness
- 1.5 oz freeze dried strawberries, finely crushed Contributes strawberry flavor
- 2-3 cups powdered sugar Provides sweetness and thickness
Instructions
Preparation
- Cream the room temperature unsalted butter and sugar together in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Prepare a baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. Spread the cookie dough evenly in the pan.
Baking
- Bake the cookie bars in a preheated oven until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the baked bars to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
- Cream the room temperature unsalted butter until smooth in a clean bowl.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing to achieve a creamy texture.
- Incorporate the vanilla extract, freeze-dried strawberries, and optional lemon juice into the frosting; mix until well combined.
- Once the cookie bars are cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.
Notes
For optimal results, use room temperature ingredients, avoid overmixing the dough, and allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.