There’s something magical about baking during the holiday season, isn’t there? Every December, my kitchen on the island of Crete feels a little warmer, a little cozier, and a whole lot sweeter. These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars have become one of those recipes that instantly brings me back to my childhood standing next to my grandmother as she taught me to mix butter, sugar, and vanilla until the whole room smelled like a dream.
Even though sugar cookies aren’t originally Greek, I quickly fell in love with them when I started experimenting with American Christmas recipes. And now? These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are one of the treats I make every single year. They taste like classic soft sugar cookies, but without the hassle of chilling dough or cutting shapes. Simple, festive, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth good.
What I love most is how they bring people together. Growing up, cooking was more than just mixing ingredients it was sharing warmth, stories, and laughter. Baking these bars reminds me of that. The sprinkles, the frosting, the soft crumb… every bite feels like a holiday memory in the making.
Whenever I make these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars, I think about all the women in my family who passed down their love through food. These bars may not be traditional Greek, but they hold the same spirit: simple ingredients, cozy flavors, and the joy of feeding the people you love.
And the best part? They’re the perfect recipe for busy holiday days. No rolling. No cutting. Just mix, bake, frost, and slice. Whether you’re new to baking or just want something fast but impressive, these bars deliver every single time.
So let’s bake something wonderful together something soft, sweet, festive, and perfect for sharing. Let’s make Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Why You’ll Love Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
If there’s one holiday dessert that never disappoints, it’s this one. These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are:
- Perfectly soft and buttery, like old-fashioned bakery sugar cookies
- Foolproof no dough chilling or cookie cutters required
- Easy to frost and decorate
- Great for gifting, parties, and cookie trays
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults
And because the keyword fits naturally, let me say it again Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars are the easiest holiday treat you’ll bake this year!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sugar Cookie Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional but amazing)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Red & green holiday sprinkles
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This makes lifting the bars super easy later.
2. Cream the Butter & Sugar
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar for 2–3 minutes, until it’s light and fluffy.
This step creates that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture we love.
3. Add Egg + Flavoring
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
The almond adds a bakery-style flavor that makes these bars irresistible.
4. Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add this to the wet mixture and mix on low until the dough forms.
It will be thick don’t worry, that’s perfect for sugar cookie bars.
5. Press & Bake
Press the dough evenly into your prepared pan.
Use your hands or the back of a spatula.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Be careful not to overbake!
Softness is the secret to perfect Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars.
Let cool completely before frosting.
6. Make the Frosting
In a bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
Add powdered sugar gradually, mixing well.
Add cream/milk, vanilla, and salt.
Beat until fluffy.
7. Frost & Decorate
Spread the frosting over the cooled bars.
Finish with lots of festive sprinkles.
Slice into squares and enjoy the holiday magic!
Serving Suggestions
These bars are wonderful for:
- Holiday parties
- Cookie gift boxes
- School treats
- Christmas brunch
- Movie-night desserts
Pair them with hot chocolate, milk, or a warm spiced latte for the full cozy experience.
Tips for Perfect Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars
- Don’t overbake light golden edges mean soft centers.
- Add almond extract for real bakery flavor.
- Chill the frosting for 10 minutes before spreading for cleaner slices.
- Use parchment paper so you can lift and cut easily.
- Add food coloring to the frosting if you want extra festive colors.
Recipe Card 🎄🍪
TIME ⏱️
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Bake: 15–18 minutes
- Frosting: 5 minutes
- Total: 30–35 minutes
INGREDIENTS 📝
(Complete list repeated for recipe card clarity)
- Butter
- Sugar
- Egg
- Vanilla + almond extract
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Powdered sugar
- Cream or milk
- Sprinkles
INSTRUCTIONS 👩🍳
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 pan.
- Cream butter + sugar until fluffy.
- Add egg + extracts.
- Mix dry ingredients separately; add to wet.
- Press dough into pan; bake 15–18 minutes.
- Cool completely.
- Beat frosting ingredients.
- Spread frosting, top with sprinkles, slice.
NOTES ✨
- Almond extract is optional but highly recommended.
- Use room-temperature butter for best texture.
- Add food coloring to frosting for extra holiday fun.
NUTRITION (Approx. per bar) 🍽️
- Calories: ~240
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 32g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 2g
Short 100-Word Story Version
Hi, I’m Marilyn from the island of Crete, where cooking has always been a way to bring people together. These Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars remind me of baking with my grandmother simple ingredients, warm memories, and the joy of sharing sweets with the people you love. I adore sugar cookie bars because they’re festive, soft, and incredibly easy. No rolling or cutting just mix, bake, frost, and enjoy. Even on my busiest days, making these feels cozy and comforting, like filling the house with holiday cheer. I hope these bars bring warmth and happiness to your kitchen too.
Conclusion
Every holiday season deserves a recipe that brings joy, simplicity, and unforgettable flavor and these Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars do exactly that. From the soft buttery base to the creamy frosting and cheerful sprinkles, they capture the magic of Christmas in every bite. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these bars make the season feel brighter and sweeter. I hope they become a cherished part of your holiday traditions, just like they’ve become part of mine. Happy baking and happy holidays! 🎄✨