Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars – Perfect Spring Treats

If you’re a fan of sugar cookies, you’re going to adore these Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars. With a soft, chewy sugar cookie base topped with homemade strawberry frosting, this recipe is the perfect treat for any spring gathering. Whether it’s a potluck, bridal shower, or family dessert night, these bars offer a delicious twist on classic sugar cookies. The combination of the subtle almond flavor in the cookie and the vibrant strawberry frosting makes them irresistible.

Why Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars Are a Must-Try

These Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars stand out for several reasons. They’re quick to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for any occasion. The beauty of the recipe lies in its simplicity — the dough is mixed, pressed into a pan, and baked. Once cooled, it’s topped with an all-natural strawberry frosting that brings the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. These bars are also easy to slice and serve, making them an ideal choice for a crowd.

Ingredients for Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars

Here’s a list of the key ingredients that make these Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars so delicious:

• Unsalted Butter (Room Temperature): Adds richness to the cookie dough and frosting.
• Sugar: The main sweetener for the cookie base.
• Egg and Egg Yolk (Room Temperature): Provide structure and moisture to the dough.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cookies.
• Almond Extract: Adds a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the strawberry frosting.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base for the cookie dough, giving it structure.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Help the dough rise for a light, soft texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

For the strawberry frosting:

• Unsalted Butter (Room Temperature): Creates a smooth, creamy frosting texture.
• Vanilla Extract & Fresh Lemon Juice: Add flavor and a hint of freshness to the frosting.
• Freeze-Dried Strawberries: The key to making an all-natural, vibrant strawberry frosting without artificial coloring.
• Powdered Sugar: Used to sweeten and thicken the frosting to a spreadable consistency.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars

If you’re looking to swap out some ingredients based on dietary preferences or availability, here are a few options:

• Coconut Extract: If you don’t have almond extract, coconut extract works as a delicious alternative that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
• Gluten-Free Flour: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make this dessert gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Butter: Use dairy-free butter to make the bars and frosting dairy-free without sacrificing taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch casserole dish with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
2. Prepare the cookie dough: In a stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter and sugar together for about 3 minutes until creamy. Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Bake the cookie base: Pour the dough into the prepared pan and press it flat. Bake for 16-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Prepare the frosting: Beat together the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, lemon juice (if using), and crushed freeze-dried strawberries. Gradually add powdered sugar until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
6. Frost the bars: Once the bars are fully cooled, lift them from the pan using the parchment paper. Spread the strawberry frosting over the top evenly. Add fresh strawberries or sprinkles on top if desired.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars

• Check the cookie doneness: The cookie base should be soft with slightly golden edges. Don’t overbake, as it could result in a dry cookie.
• Perfectly spread frosting: If the frosting gets too thick, add a little milk or more lemon juice to get it to the right consistency.
• Make ahead: You can make these bars a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve freshness.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and other ingredients are at room temperature before starting to get the best results.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with various pairings and variations:

• Pairing with tea or lemonade: These bars pair wonderfully with a refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonade for a perfect spring treat.
• Add a twist: To make them even more festive, add a layer of sprinkles or top them with mini chocolate chips for a fun variation.
• Gluten-free version: Simply swap the regular flour with gluten-free flour for a tasty treat that accommodates dietary restrictions.

Why Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars Are Perfect for Spring

Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars are an excellent choice for spring celebrations. The natural sweetness of strawberries combined with the almond-flavored cookie base creates a dessert that’s light and fresh. With minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these bars that will impress guests and satisfy every sweet tooth.

These bars are a go-to for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations. The ease of making them in a single pan, along with the vibrant strawberry frosting, makes them a standout dessert for both casual and formal gatherings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars are a perfect blend of sweetness, flavor, and simplicity. They are an easy-to-make dessert that is both delicious and visually appealing, making them ideal for any spring event or casual gathering. With their soft cookie base and homemade strawberry frosting, these bars offer a delightful twist on a classic treat. Whether you’re preparing for a party or just treating your family, this recipe is sure to please every crowd. Try these bars once, and they might just become your go-to dessert for every season!

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