DREAMY Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars (gluten-free)

These Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are everything you love about a sugar cookie but even better. One bowl, zero chili time and topped with a homemade buttercream frosting. Plus these are gluten-free and nut-free.

There’s something nostalgic and downright irresistible about a frosted sugar cookie. The buttery flavor, the soft texture, the creamy frosting on top—it’s like a hug in dessert form. But let’s face it: rolling, cutting, and decorating individual cookies can sometimes feel like more effort than it’s worth, especially when you’re short on time or baking for a crowd. Enter Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars—a fun twist on the classic cookie that’s just as delicious but far easier to make.

This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the simplicity of bar cookies and the irresistible charm of frosted sugar cookies. Plus, it’s entirely gluten-free, and you can make it dairy-free if needed, so everyone can indulge. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a festive holiday party, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these cookie bars are bound to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Let’s dive into how you can whip up a batch of these heavenly treats.

Why You’ll Love Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars

1. Quick and Easy: No rolling or cookie cutters required. Simply mix, bake, and frost!
2. Customizable: Use food coloring to match the frosting to any occasion, and top with your favorite sprinkles.
3. Perfect Texture: Soft, chewy cookie bars with a creamy, buttery frosting make for the ultimate bite.
4. Gluten-Free: Made with gluten-free flour and tapioca flour, they’re perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars store well, making them a great option for prepping ahead of time.

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture. If you’re dairy-free, opt for a plant-based butter alternative.
• Egg + egg yolk – The combination creates a rich texture and helps bind the dough.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and gives these bars that classic sugar cookie taste.
• Coconut sugar – A slightly healthier alternative to white sugar, it brings a subtle caramel flavor while keeping the bars soft and chewy.
• Gluten-free four and Tapioca flour – This combination provides the perfect structure and chew without any gluten.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the ideal consistency.
• Milk – Helps achieve a smooth and spreadable consistency. Non-dairy milk works just as well here.
• Sprinkles – Because what’s a frosted sugar cookie without a little sparkle?
• Optional: Food coloring – Perfect for adding a pop of color. Think pastel pinks for Valentine’s Day, green for St. Patrick’s, or red and green for Christmas.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars:

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Grease the parchment paper generously to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Cookie Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted and cooled butter with the coconut sugar. Beat using an electric mixer for about 30 seconds until smooth and creamy.

• Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat again until everything is well incorporated.

• Gradually add the gluten-free flour, tapioca flour, and baking powder to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.

3. Bake the Bars

• Transfer the cookie dough to your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press it evenly into the pan, smoothing out the surface.

• Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are just turning golden brown.

• Let the bars cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial, as frosting warm bars will result in a melted mess!

4. Make the Frosting

• While the bars cool, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, cream the room-temperature butter with the powdered sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

• Add the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of milk. Beat again, adding more milk if needed to achieve your desired consistency.

• If you’re using food coloring, mix it in now. Use a spatula to evenly distribute the color.

5. Frost and Decorate

• Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

• Sprinkle with your favorite toppings—rainbow sprinkles, holiday-themed confetti, or even crushed candy canes.

6. Slice and Serve

• Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles.

• Serve and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars:

• Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before spreading it in the pan. This will make it easier to handle.
• Don’t Overbake: The key to soft, chewy bars is pulling them out of the oven as soon as the edges are golden and the center passes the toothpick test. Overbaking can make them dry.
• Room Temperature Butter: For the frosting, make sure your butter is soft but not melted. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
• Customize for Holidays: Change up the frosting color and sprinkles to match the season—orange and black for Halloween, red and green for Christmas, or pastel hues for Easter.

How to Store Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars:

• Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: If you prefer firmer frosting, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezer: These bars freeze well! Place them in a single layer in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Why These Bars Are a Game-Changer:

Unlike traditional sugar cookies, which can require multiple steps like chilling, rolling, cutting, and decorating, these cookie bars streamline the process without sacrificing flavor or charm. They’re versatile enough to adapt to any occasion yet simple enough for an everyday treat. Plus, the soft, buttery texture paired with the sweet frosting will transport you back to childhood with every bite.

A few other delicious cookie recipes to try:

Gluten-free Lofthouse Cookies

The BEST Peanut Butter Cookies (gluten-free)

EPIC Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies (gluten-free)

Gluten-free Deep Dish Chocolate Chip Cookie with Caramel