Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Sink your teeth into these homemade patriotic sugar cookie bars! With a soft texture and vibrant red and blue sprinkles, these bars are topped with rich vanilla frosting, making them the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Perfect for the 4th of July, birthday parties, or just a fun family treat, they bring a festive flair that everyone will love.

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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: Mix Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
• Step 4: Combine Mixtures
• Step 5: Bake the Bars
• Step 6: Make Frosting
• Step 7: Frost and Serve
• How to Serve Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
• At a Barbecue
• As Party Favors
• With Ice Cream
• For Picnics
• On a Dessert Table
• How to Perfect Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• 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?
• What frosting works best with these bars?
• How long do these cookie bars last?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Festive Appeal: The colorful sprinkles make these bars visually stunning, ideal for celebrations and holidays.
• Sliceable Delight: Unlike traditional cookies, these bars can be cut into neat squares, perfect for sharing.
• Versatile Flavor: Enjoy them as they are or customize with different sprinkles to fit any theme.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping sprinkle the toppings and are sure to enjoy eating them!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your patriotic sugar cookie bars, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and ensures thorough mixing for a fluffy dough.
• Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish provides the right size for even baking of cookie bars.
• Mixing bowls: Multiple bowls help keep ingredients organized during preparation.

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. Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or foil. Lightly spray it with cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
* 4 & 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
* Cream together softened butter (1 cup) and granulated sugar (1 & 2/3 cups) until light and fluffy—about two minutes.
* Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Add in:
* Three large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Finally, add:
* One tablespoon of vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined:
* Scrape down the sides of the bowl again.

Gently fold in:
* Half a cup of patriotic sprinkles.

Step 5: Bake the 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.

Let cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Make Frosting

While cooling, prepare the frosting:
In a large bowl with an electric hand mixer, whip together:
* Half a cup of softened butter until smooth.

Gradually add:
* Two & 1/2 cups powdered sugar until fully mixed.

Then add:
* A pinch of sea salt,
* One teaspoon vanilla extract,
* One & 1/2 tablespoons whole milk.

Mix on medium-high speed for three minutes until fluffy.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once cooled, take the cookie from the baking dish and frost it generously. Add more patriotic sprinkles on top if desired. Cut into squares and serve!

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

How to Serve Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

Serving your Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars can be as fun and festive as making them! These cheerful treats are perfect for any celebration, especially during the 4th of July. Here are some delicious serving ideas to make your dessert table shine.

At a Barbecue

• Serve the sugar cookie bars alongside grilled meats and salads for a colorful dessert option that complements savory dishes.

As Party Favors

• Cut the bars into individual portions and wrap them in clear cellophane bags tied with red, white, and blue ribbons. This makes for a delightful take-home treat!

With Ice Cream

• Pair each bar with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The combination of warm bars and cold ice cream is irresistible.

For Picnics

• Pack the cookie bars in a picnic basket along with fresh fruit and lemonade. They make for a quick and easy dessert that everyone will enjoy outdoors.

On a Dessert Table

• Create a vibrant dessert table featuring other patriotic desserts alongside these cookie bars, such as red velvet cupcakes or blueberry tartlets, for an eye-catching display.

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: Mix the dough just until combined to keep the bars tender and soft.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached when done.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allow the cookie bars to cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting off.
• Add extra sprinkles generously: Don’t hold back on the sprinkles; they add fun color and texture to your finished dessert.
• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Best Side Dishes for Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

While these Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars make a statement on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of berries and melon provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.

2. Classic Coleslaw
   The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture that balances well with soft cookie bars.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brings summer flavors to your meal, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

4. Potato Salad
   Creamy potato salad offers heartiness that contrasts nicely with lighter dessert options.

5. Caprese Skewers
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create bright flavors that complement sweet treats.

6. BBQ Chicken Wings
   Spicy wings provide a savory explosion, making these cookie bars even more enjoyable after spicy bites.

7. Veggie Platter with Hummus
   Crisp vegetables served with creamy hummus bring brightness to your spread while keeping it light.

8. Cheese Board
   A selection of cheeses paired with crackers can serve as an elegant appetizer before indulging in dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Skipping the Cooling Step – Allowing your cookie bars to cool completely before frosting is crucial. If you frost while warm, the frosting will melt and ruin the texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly – Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups properly to ensure the right balance of flavors and textures.
• Overmixing the Dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough cookie bars. Mix just until combined after adding flour, then gently fold in the sprinkles.
• Using Cold Butter – Always use softened butter for a light and fluffy texture. Cold butter will not cream well with sugar, leading to denser bars.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature – Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. An inaccurate temperature can throw off the cooking time and result in undercooked or burnt bars.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

• Freeze cookie bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, covered, until just warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different colors of sprinkles?

Absolutely! You can customize your sprinkles based on any holiday or occasion. Just make sure they fit the theme you desire.

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 blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What frosting works best with these bars?

A simple vanilla frosting pairs perfectly with Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars. Feel free to add food coloring if you want to match specific themes!

How long do these cookie bars last?

When stored properly, Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars last about one week in the refrigerator and up to three months when frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars are not only festive but also versatile, making them perfect for any celebration! You can easily adjust them by using different colors of sprinkles or even trying out various frostings. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a sweet treat, these cookie bars will surely delight both kids and adults alike.