Sugar Cookie Bars Valentines (Print-Friendly Version)

Tender sugar cookie bars topped with frosting and sprinkles, ideal for sweet Valentine’s celebrations.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 344 grams all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

04 - 227 grams unsalted butter, softened
05 - 300 grams granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

→ Toppings

09 - 240 milliliters frosting of choice
10 - Sprinkles for decoration

# Detailed Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 175°C. Grease a 23x33 cm baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
03 - Using an electric mixer or whisk, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, promoting a tender texture.
04 - Add the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the creamed butter mixture. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
05 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
06 - Evenly spread the dough into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula for uniform thickness.
07 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
08 - Once cooled, spread the chosen frosting evenly over the top and sprinkle with decorations. Slice into 12 bars and serve.

# Helpful Advice:

01 - Creaming the butter and sugar properly is essential to achieve tender and soft bars.