Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars

why make this recipe

Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for celebrating love. These sweet treats are easy to make and will brighten anyone’s day. They are great for sharing with friends, family, or that special someone. The lovely glaze on top adds a nice touch for Valentine’s Day, making them not only delicious but also visually appealing.

how to make Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  5. Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
  7. For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
  8. Spread the glaze over the cooled cookie bars.
  9. Cut into squares and enjoy your Valentine treat!

how to serve Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars

Serve these delicious bars on a festive plate for Valentine’s Day. You can add some sprinkles on top of the glaze for extra color. They are great as a snack or dessert after a nice meal. Consider pairing them with a cup of tea or coffee for a sweet break.

how to store Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars

To keep your cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

tips to make Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars

  • Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
  • Use a spatula to spread the dough evenly in the pan to ensure even baking.
  • Let the cookie bars cool completely before adding the glaze, or it may melt.
  • For a fun twist, you can add red or pink food coloring to the glaze.

variation

You can add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for a different flavor. Another fun variation is to mix in some sprinkles for added color and excitement in the bars.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar! It will give your cookie bars a deeper flavor.

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.

3. What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
If you don’t have vanilla extract, almond extract is a tasty alternative that adds a different flavor.

Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars

Sweet and easy-to-make cookie bars perfect for celebrating love on Valentine's Day, topped with a delightful glaze.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baking
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Bars
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened Ensure butter is softened for best texture.
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan.
Baking
  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  2. Allow to cool completely.
Glazing
  1. For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
  2. Spread the glaze over the cooled cookie bars.
  3. Cut into squares and enjoy your Valentine treat!

Notes

Serve these delicious bars on a festive plate for Valentine's Day. You can add some sprinkles on top of the glaze for extra color. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. For a fun twist, consider adding red or pink food coloring to the glaze.