Name: Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting); 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk; Pink or red food coloring; Valentine sprinkles

Why You’ll Love Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

These cookie bars are wonderfully soft with a tender crumb and just the right amount of sweetness. Instead of rolling and cutting out individual cookies, you simply press the dough into a pan and bake, saving time and effort. They’re ideal for decorating with colorful frosting and sprinkles, making them fun to customize for Valentine’s Day. This recipe is also easy to double for larger gatherings and simple enough for beginner bakers to master.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

granulated sugar
unsalted butter, softened
large eggs
vanilla extract
all-purpose flour
baking powder
salt
milk
powdered sugar (for frosting)
additional butter (for frosting)
food coloring (optional)
Valentine sprinkles

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
To make the frosting, beat together softened butter and powdered sugar, adding a small amount of milk until smooth and spreadable. Add food coloring if desired.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars and decorate with Valentine sprinkles.
Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20 to 24 bars
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 18 to 22 minutes
Cooling and decorating time: 30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations
You can switch up the flavor by adding almond extract in place of some of the vanilla. For a chocolate twist, mix in mini chocolate chips or top the frosting with a drizzle of melted chocolate. A cream cheese frosting can replace the buttercream for a slightly tangy flavor. To make them festive for other occasions, simply change the frosting color and sprinkles to match the holiday or theme.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate them to keep the frosting firm, storing for up to 5 days. Allow refrigerated bars to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Unfrosted bars can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw completely before frosting and serving.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to prevent the bars from becoming too salty.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few soft crumbs.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the bars a day in advance and frost them the next day for the freshest presentation.

Why are my cookie bars dry?

Overbaking or adding too much flour can cause dryness. Be sure to measure flour properly and remove the bars from the oven once the center is set.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Double the ingredients and bake in a larger sheet pan, adjusting the baking time slightly as needed.

What type of frosting works best?

A classic buttercream frosting is ideal, but cream cheese frosting or even whipped frosting can work well.

Can I add mix-ins to the dough?

Yes, white chocolate chips, colorful candies, or extra sprinkles can be folded into the dough before baking.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, this dough does not require chilling, which makes the recipe quicker and easier.

How should I cut the bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the frosted bars briefly can also help create neat slices.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for the all-purpose flour to achieve similar results.

Conclusion

Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars are a simple yet impressive dessert that combines convenience with classic flavor. Their soft texture, sweet frosting, and festive decorations make them perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re baking for a party or just treating your family, these easy cookie bars are sure to become a favorite for Valentine’s Day and beyond.