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Frosted Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars - featured image

Frosted Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars


  • Author: Maya
  • Total Time: 1 hour 33 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

Soft, chewy strawberry sugar cookie bars with a tangy cream cheese frosting. This nostalgic summer treat is simple to make, perfect for parties, and tastes even better the next day.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin powder
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 oz (113g) full-fat brick-style cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 12 tablespoons milk
  • Optional: 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries
  • Optional: 1/4 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the 1/2 cup softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the strawberry gelatin powder, flour, baking powder, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined.
  4. Press the dough firmly and evenly into the prepared pan to form a flat base.
  5. Bake for 15-18 minutes until edges are lightly golden and the center is set but still soft.
  6. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
  7. While bars cool, beat the 4 oz cream cheese and 1/4 cup softened butter until smooth.
  8. Add sifted powdered sugar and beat on low until combined, then increase speed and beat for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
  9. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
  10. Spread frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Sprinkle with optional fresh strawberries or white chocolate chips if desired.
  11. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the frosting.
  12. Lift bars out of the pan and cut into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled.

Notes

Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for best texture. Do not frost the bars while they are warm, or the frosting will melt. For clean cuts, chill the bars for at least one hour after frosting. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 26
  • Sodium: 150
  • Fat: 14
  • Saturated Fat: 9
  • Carbohydrates: 38
  • Protein: 3

Keywords: strawberry cookie bars, cream cheese frosting, summer dessert, easy baking, party dessert, strawberry gelatin recipe