Valentine's Sugar Cookie Bars (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Cookie Base
01 -
1 cup white granulated sugar
02 -
1/2 cup softened butter, at room temperature
03 -
2 large eggs
04 -
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 -
2 cups all-purpose flour
06 -
1 teaspoon baking soda
07 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
08 -
2 tablespoons Valentine sprinkles for dough
→ Decoration
09 -
1 container Duncan Hines white frosting
10 -
1/4 cup Valentine sprinkles for topping
11 -
1 tablespoon candy hearts or red M&Ms
# Instructions:
01 -
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square non-stick baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
02 -
In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine all your dry ingredients first. Then add the softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until you get a nice, soft dough. Gently fold in the Valentine sprinkles until evenly distributed.
03 -
Spread your dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, making sure to get it into all the corners. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center. Let the bars cool completely before decorating.
04 -
Once cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting over the top using the back of a spoon or butter knife. Sprinkle with Valentine sprinkles and arrange candy hearts or M&Ms on top. Cut into 2-inch squares before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For a quick shortcut, you can use pre-made sugar cookie dough as your base
02 -
Chilling the dough for 10-15 minutes helps the bars bake more evenly
03 -
Feel free to get creative with toppings - try mini chocolate chips or heart-shaped candies
04 -
Make sure to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting