Sink your teeth into these homemade patriotic sugar cookie bars! A delightful and soft sugar cookie bar, studded with vibrant red and blue sprinkles, topped with a velvety vanilla frosting, and finished with even more sprinkles. Perfect for the 4th of July or any festive occasion, these cookie bars are easy to slice and serve, making them ideal for both kids and adults alike. Their colorful presentation and delicious flavor will surely make them a hit at your next gathering!
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: Prepare the Dough
- Step 3: Bake the Cookie Bars
- Step 4: Make the Frosting
- Step 5: Frost and Serve
- How to Serve Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
- For a Festive Picnic
- As Party Favors
- At Family Gatherings
- With Ice Cream
- 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 different colors of sprinkles?
- How do I make these cookie bars gluten-free?
- Are these bars suitable for kids?
- Can I add other flavors to the frosting?
- How should I cut the cookie bars?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: These cookie bars come together quickly, making them perfect for busy bakers.
- Festive Appearance: The red, white, and blue sprinkles add a patriotic flair that’s great for celebrations.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth softness of these cookie bars.
- Versatile Dessert: Great for holidays, parties, or simply as a sweet treat any day of the week.
- Customizable Frosting: Feel free to mix in flavors or colors to match your theme!
Tools and Preparation
To create your patriotic sugar cookie bars, having the right tools is essential for a seamless baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- 9×13 baking dish
- Parchment paper or foil
- Cooking spray
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing the dough effortless, ensuring all ingredients blend well.
- Baking dish: A 9×13 dish is perfect for even baking and easy slicing of the cookie bars.
- Parchment paper or foil: Line your baking dish for easy removal of the cookie bars after baking.
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. Spray it lightly with cooking spray and set it aside. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In the stand mixer bowl fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add each egg one at a time, allowing each to mix in fully before adding the next. Pour in the vanilla extract and combine well. Gradually add in the flour mixture until just combined. Finally, fold in the patriotic sprinkles gently.
Step 3: Bake the Cookie Bars
Press the cookie dough evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 25–28 minutes or until lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, place on a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
While waiting for your cookie bars to cool, prepare your frosting. In a large bowl with an electric hand mixer, whip softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until fully incorporated. Add in sea salt, vanilla extract, and milk; stir until combined. Increase mixer speed to medium-high and whip for about three minutes until fluffy.
Step 5: Frost and Serve
Once cooled, remove your cookie bars from the baking dish. Spread an even layer of frosting over the top. If desired, sprinkle more patriotic sprinkles on top for added flair. Cut into bars and serve!
How to Serve Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
These delicious patriotic sugar cookie bars are perfect for any festive occasion, especially during the 4th of July. They can easily be served in a variety of fun and engaging ways that will delight both kids and adults.
For a Festive Picnic
- Individual Servings: Cut the bars into small squares and place them in cupcake liners for easy handling.
- Themed Plates: Serve on red, white, and blue plates to enhance the patriotic theme.
As Party Favors
- Wrap Them Up: Package individual bars in clear cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons as a sweet takeaway for guests.
- Label Them: Create custom labels with the name of your event or a fun message to personalize each package.
At Family Gatherings
- Dessert Buffet: Include these bars on a dessert table alongside other treats to create a colorful display.
- Interactive Frosting Station: Set up a station where guests can add their own extra sprinkles before enjoying their slice.
With Ice Cream
- A La Mode: Serve warm cookie bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Cut the bars into two pieces and sandwich ice cream between them for a fun twist.
How to Perfect Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
To ensure your patriotic sugar cookie bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense cookies.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookie bars soft and chewy.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the bars to cool fully before adding frosting to prevent it from melting off.
Best Side Dishes for Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
Pairing side dishes with your patriotic sugar cookie bars can elevate your festive celebration. Here are some delightful options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and watermelon adds freshness and color.
- Veggie Platter: Crunchy vegetables served with ranch dip provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter makes for an excellent side at summer gatherings.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with any dessert spread.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze offer bright flavors that balance sweetness.
- Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses paired with crackers creates an inviting appetizer option before dessert is served.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Avoid these pitfalls for the best outcome.
- Skipping the Cooling Process: Not allowing the cookie bars to cool completely before frosting can lead to melted frosting. Always wait until they are fully cooled for better texture and appearance.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much after adding flour can lead to tough cookie bars. Mix just until combined for a soft and tender result.
- Measuring Flour Incorrectly: Using too much flour can make your bars dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to ensure accurate measurement.
- Not Checking Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can result in undercooked or burnt bars. Use an oven thermometer to verify your oven’s accuracy.
- Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Cold butter can prevent proper creaming with sugar. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for a fluffy texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat bars for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place one bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and warm bars for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars that might help you with your baking experience.
Can I use different colors of sprinkles?
You can definitely customize your sprinkles! Feel free to use any colors that match your celebration theme.
How do I make these cookie bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.
Are these bars suitable for kids?
Absolutely! The Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars are fun and colorful, making them perfect treats for kids’ parties or celebrations.
Can I add other flavors to the frosting?
Yes! You can experiment by adding almond extract or lemon zest to the frosting for extra flavor.
How should I cut the cookie bars?
For even slices, use a sharp knife and cut while the bars are slightly chilled. This helps maintain clean edges.
Final Thoughts
Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any festive occasion. Their soft texture and vibrant colors make them appealing to both kids and adults alike. Feel free to customize this recipe by changing up the sprinkles or frosting flavors based on your preferences!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive delight of Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars! These soft, chewy bars are infused with vibrant red and blue sprinkles, making them a perfect treat for July 4th celebrations or any festive gathering. Topped with a creamy vanilla frosting and even more sprinkles, these bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to slice and serve. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, a family gathering, or just want to add a touch of fun to your day, these cookie bars are sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Enjoy their melt-in-your-mouth texture and customizable frosting options that allow you to get creative with flavors!
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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sea salt.
- In a stand mixer, cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time followed by vanilla.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until combined; fold in patriotic sprinkles.
- Spread dough in the prepared dish and bake for 25–28 minutes until golden.
- Cool completely before frosting with whipped buttercream topped with additional sprinkles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie bar (50g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
