Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Sink your teeth into these homemade patriotic sugar cookie bars! A delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, this recipe features soft bars studded with vibrant red and blue sprinkles. Topped with a rich vanilla frosting and more sprinkles, they are a perfect treat for the 4th of July or any festive occasion. These bars are easy to slice and serve, making them an ideal dessert for both kids and adults alike.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
• Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
• Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 5: Bake the Cookie Bars
• Step 6: Make Frosting
• Step 7: Frost and Serve
• How to Serve Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
• Festive Platter
• Ice Cream Pairing
• Individual Wrapping
• Fruit Accompaniment
• Cupcake Stand Display
• Themed Plates
• How to Perfect Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
• Reheating Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
• How do I make these bars gluten-free?
• Can I use different sprinkles?
• What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
• How do I store leftover frosting?
• Can I add chocolate chips?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the process of baking cookies by turning them into easy-to-handle bars.
• Festive Appearance: The striking colors of red, white, and blue make these cookie bars visually appealing for any celebration.
• Delicious Flavor: Soft, sweet cookie bars paired with creamy frosting create a delightful flavor combination that everyone loves.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays like the 4th of July, birthday parties, or any gathering where you want to impress guests.
• Sliceable Convenience: Unlike traditional cookies, these bars can be easily cut into pieces, making serving a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your patriotic sugar cookie bars, having the right tools on hand will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking dish (9×13)
• Parchment paper or foil
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Ideal for creaming butter and sugar together quickly and efficiently.
• Baking dish: A 9×13 dish ensures even baking and provides enough space for all the delicious cookie batter.
• Parchment paper or foil: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
• Whisk: Essential for combining dry ingredients thoroughly before mixing with wet ingredients.

Ingredients

Ingredients for your patriotic sugar cookie bars:

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

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture; ensure that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. After all eggs are mixed in, add in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the flour mixture while stirring until just combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl again to ensure everything is mixed evenly. 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. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Once baked, place on a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make Frosting

While cooling, make your frosting by whipping softened butter in a large bowl using an electric hand mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until fully incorporated. Mix in sea salt, vanilla extract, and whole milk; then whip on medium-high speed for about three minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once cooled completely, remove your cookie from the baking dish. Spread frosting evenly over top while sprinkling additional patriotic sprinkles if desired. Cut into bar shapes and enjoy!

How to Serve Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

These delightful patriotic sugar cookie bars are perfect for any festive gathering, especially during the 4th of July celebrations. Here are some fun serving suggestions that will wow your guests and make your dessert table shine.

Festive Platter

• Arrange the bars on a large platter with a mix of red, white, and blue decorations for an eye-catching display.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve these cookie bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delicious contrast in textures.

Individual Wrapping

• Wrap each bar in colorful cellophane and tie with a ribbon for easy grabbing at parties or potlucks.

Fruit Accompaniment

• Add a side of fresh strawberries and blueberries to enhance the patriotic theme while providing a refreshing balance.

Cupcake Stand Display

• Stack the cookie bars on a tiered cupcake stand to offer an elegant presentation that draws attention.

Themed Plates

• Use themed plates featuring stars and stripes to serve the bars, enhancing the holiday spirit in every detail.

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How to Perfect Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

To ensure your patriotic sugar cookie bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookie bars soft and chewy rather than tough.

• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, as ovens can vary significantly.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the cookie bars to cool fully before frosting helps prevent the frosting from melting into the bars.

• Add extra sprinkles: Don’t be shy with sprinkles on top! They not only add flavor but also visual appeal.

• Store properly: Keep leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for maximum freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Pairing these scrumptious cookie bars with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Berry Salad: A mix of fresh berries drizzled with honey enhances freshness and adds a splash of color.

2. Whipped Cream Dip: Create a light whipped cream dip flavored with vanilla or almond extract for dipping fruit or cookies.

3. Grilled Peaches: Sweet grilled peaches topped with yogurt create a warm treat that contrasts nicely with cold desserts.

4. Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses like cheddar and brie, which pairs well with sweet treats.

5. Veggie Tray: A colorful assortment of veggies served with ranch dressing adds crunch and balances sweetness.

6. Mini Fruit Tarts: These little tarts filled with pastry cream and topped with fruit make for elegant finger foods.

7. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination offers a delightful contrast to the softness of sugar cookie bars.

8. Patriotic Punch: Serve up a refreshing drink made from lemonade, blueberry soda, and strawberries for added festivity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Room Temperature Butter: Using cold butter can lead to dense bars. Always let your butter soften at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can result in tough cookie bars. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a soft texture.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make the bars dry. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurement.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Frosting warm bars can melt the icing. Allow your cookie bars to cool completely before frosting them.
• Choosing the Wrong Baking Dish: Using a dish that’s too small can lead to undercooked centers. Stick to the recommended 9×13 size for even baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Container Options: Use plastic wrap or a sealed container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

• Duration: These cookie bars freeze well for up to 3 months.
• Preparation Tips: Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes until just heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, covering with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately if needed.

Can I use different sprinkles?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other colors or themed sprinkles to suit any occasion.

What if I don’t have vanilla extract?

While vanilla enhances flavor, you can substitute with almond extract or omit it entirely if needed.

How do I store leftover frosting?

Store any extra frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Rewhip before using again.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes! Adding chocolate chips will give your sugar cookie bars an extra delicious twist that everyone will love.

Final Thoughts

These Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars are not only festive but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for celebrating holidays like the 4th of July, they offer endless customization options with different sprinkles or flavors. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful treat that family and friends will adore!