Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these Funfetti Sugar Cookie Bars! Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make treats are packed with colorful sprinkles and warm vanilla flavor. You only need simple ingredients like flour, butter, and sugar to whip up this delightful dessert. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a snack, I’ll guide you step-by-step to bake your new favorite treat!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Festive Vibes: These Funfetti Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect treat for any celebration, adding a pop of color and joy to your dessert table.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels looking for a quick and delightful dessert.
- Chewy and Delicious: These bars are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike!
- Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe by adding different types of chips or sprinkles, making it versatile for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
To start, gather the dry ingredients. The all-purpose flour gives the bars their base. Baking powder and baking soda help them rise and stay soft. Salt adds flavor and balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Next, we need the wet ingredients. Softened butter makes the bars rich and creamy. Granulated and brown sugar add sweetness and depth. Eggs bind the mixture and keep it moist. Vanilla extract gives a lovely aroma and flavor.
Optional Add-ins
– ½ cup rainbow sprinkles (plus additional for topping)
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Finally, consider the optional add-ins. Rainbow sprinkles bring fun colors and joy. White chocolate chips, while not needed, add extra sweetness. You can mix and match these to make your bars special!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Start by preheating your oven. This helps the bars bake evenly. Next, prepare your baking pan. The parchment paper allows easy lifting later.
In a medium bowl, mix these dry ingredients well:
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
Whisk them together until fully combined. Set this mixture aside for later.
Creaming the Mixture
In a large bowl, cream together:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup packed brown sugar
Use an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is key for a soft texture.
Next, add in:
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Mix well after adding each egg. Continue to beat until fully combined.
Combining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to combine the dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet. Mix gently with a spatula or on low speed. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps your bars tender and soft.
Then, fold in:
– ½ cup rainbow sprinkles
– 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Baking and Cooling
Pour the cookie dough into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Smooth the top for a nice finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The edges should be golden brown. Insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean when done.
Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Carefully lift them out using the parchment paper. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
After cooling, slice the cookie bars into squares. For a festive touch, sprinkle more rainbow sprinkles on top before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
– To keep your cookie bars tender, avoid overmixing the dough. Mix just until combined.
– Bake your bars at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. Look for golden edges and a clean toothpick.
Serving Suggestions
– For a fun presentation, serve the bars on a bright platter. Add extra rainbow sprinkles on top.
– These bars taste great with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream pairs perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Watch out for ingredient substitutions. Using the wrong type of flour can change the texture.
– Measure your ingredients properly. Too much flour or sugar can ruin the bars.
Pro Tips
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming, which helps incorporate air into the dough for light and fluffy bars.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookie bars instead of tender ones.
- Cooling Time: Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
- Extra Sprinkles: For a festive presentation, add a few extra rainbow sprinkles on top after baking, just before serving, to make them even more appealing!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make Funfetti sugar cookie bars even more fun with flavor twists. First, try adding different extracts. Almond extract gives a sweet, nutty taste. Lemon extract adds a bright, citrusy zing. Both options can change the whole vibe of your bars.
You can also use different types of chocolate. Instead of white chocolate chips, try dark or milk chocolate. Each type brings a unique flavor and sweetness. Mix and match to find your favorite combination.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free option, don’t worry! You can swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many blends work well in cookie bars, but be sure to check the package for measurements.
For a vegan version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Just mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Seasonal Themes
Get creative with seasonal themes! Use holiday-themed sprinkles for festive looks. Red and green sprinkles for Christmas or pastel sprinkles for Easter are great options. You can also change the colors for birthdays or other celebrations.
Playing with colors can be fun, too. Instead of rainbow sprinkles, use your favorite colors. This simple change makes your bars fit any occasion. Whether it’s a party or a cozy night in, you can make them special.
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your Funfetti sugar cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can also use plastic wrap if you don’t have a container. Layer parchment paper between the bars if you stack them. This way, they won’t stick together.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these cookie bars for later use. First, cut them into squares. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. To thaw, take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, these cookie bars last about 3 to 5 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. Just remember to let them warm up a bit before eating for the best taste.
FAQs
How do you know when Funfetti Sugar Cookie Bars are done?
You can tell if your Funfetti Sugar Cookie Bars are done by checking a few key signs. Look for a golden brown edge. The center should be set, not jiggly. Insert a toothpick into the middle; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. The bars usually need about 20-25 minutes in the oven. Remember, they will continue to set as they cool.
Can I make Funfetti Sugar Cookie Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time! Bake them and let them cool completely. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about 3-5 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Can I customize my Funfetti bars with other mix-ins?
Absolutely! You can add many fun mix-ins to your bars. Try different types of sprinkles, like chocolate or seasonal ones. You can also mix in nuts, like chopped walnuts or pecans. For a burst of flavor, add mini marshmallows or crushed candy bars. Each mix-in changes the taste and look of your bars, making them unique!
You learned how to make delicious Funfetti Sugar Cookie Bars with ease. We covered the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for success. Remember to mix well and avoid overbaking for soft bars. You can also explore different flavors and storage methods to keep your treats fresh. Feel free to customize your cookie bars with fun add-ins. Enjoy baking and sharing this tasty treat with friends and famil
