Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

These Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive and delicious treat, perfect for celebrating the holiday of love! Easy to make and packed with sprinkles and candies, these bars are a fun and colorful way to bring some sweetness to Valentine’s Day. With a soft cookie base and creamy frosting, they’re a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s ready in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Festive and Fun: Bright sprinkles and candy make these bars a perfect Valentine’s Day treat.
2. Easy to Make: Simple steps and ingredients mean anyone can bake them.
3. Soft and Chewy: A tender cookie base with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
4. Customizable: Change the sprinkles and candies for other holidays or themes.
5. Perfect for Sharing: Great for parties, school treats, or gifting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• ½ cup butter, room temperature
• 1 large egg
• 4 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons Valentine sprinkles
• 1 tub Duncan Hines white frosting
• ¼ cup Valentine sprinkles (for decorating)
• 1 tablespoon candy hearts and/or red M&Ms

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of an 8×8-inch non-stick baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine sugar, butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Valentine sprinkles.

Step 3: Spread and Bake

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cookie bar to cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Frost and Decorate

Once cooled, spread the white frosting over the top using the back of a spoon or a butter knife. Decorate with Valentine sprinkles, candy hearts, and red M&Ms.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Cut into 2-inch squares or bars for serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 bars
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–30 minutes
• Total Time: 30–40 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Twist: Use chocolate frosting instead of white for a richer treat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Color Customization: Swap Valentine’s sprinkles for other holiday-themed colors.
• Candy Additions: Add chopped chocolate or mini marshmallows to the dough for extra indulgence.

Storage and Freezing

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the unfrosted bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time slightly as needed.

2. Can I use homemade frosting?

Absolutely! A simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting works perfectly.

3. How do I prevent the cookie bars from sticking?

Line the pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

4. Can I use other types of sugar?

Granulated sugar works best for this recipe, but light brown sugar can add a slightly caramelized flavor.

5. What if I don’t have Valentine sprinkles?

Use any colorful sprinkles or omit them entirely for a simpler version.

6. Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter, milk, and frosting substitutes.

7. How can I ensure even baking?

Spread the dough evenly in the pan and check for doneness with a toothpick.

8. Can I add flavor to the frosting?

Mix in a few drops of vanilla, almond extract, or food coloring to customize the frosting.

9. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, bake the bars and store them unfrosted. Frost and decorate just before serving.

10. What other toppings work well?

Crushed candies, mini chocolate chips, or edible glitter are great alternatives.

Conclusion

Valentine Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful and festive way to celebrate the season of love. With their soft, chewy texture and vibrant decorations, these bars are a treat everyone will adore. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, they’re ideal for Valentine’s parties, school events, or a sweet surprise for someone special. Whip up a batch today and spread the love!

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